In a most recent development, the temporary exemption from ETA requirements for selected transit passengers has been announced by the Home Office in the UK. This action is intended to make travel easier and to address concerns raised by the industry.
Temporary ETA Exemption Explained
Airside transit passengers, who do not enter UK border control and instead remain in the secure area of the airport, are exempt from holding an ETA for a temporary period after January 16, 2025. For now, this exemption only applies to the airports of Heathrow and Manchester, which are the only UK airports with facilities dedicated to transit. This exemption came about in response to feedback from the aviation sector, which envisaged possible disruption to passenger flow in the new ETA requirements.
Scope and Limitations of the Exemption
The exemption is said to be temporary and will be under continual review by the Home Office. Transit passengers who are connecting flights on separate tickets, need to collect and re-check baggage needing passing through UK immigration control, do need an ETA prior to travel.
This exemption seeks to calibrate the ETA of the UK against similarly framed international regimes like that of the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) in the United States.
Upcoming Increase in ETA Fees
In addition to the temporary exemption, the Home Office is due to publish an increase of the ETA application fee from £10 to £16. The increase will aid in funding immigration and border operations in general, expected to contribute an extra £140 million to the Home Office in FY 2025-2026. The fee hike is thus going to ensure that the government remains committed to the financial sustainability of the UK’s immigration system.
Implications for Travelers
Travelers planning to transit through the UK should keep abreast of current requirements.
- If you are transiting through Heathrow or Manchester airports without passing through UK border control, you are exempt from the ETA requirement for a temporary period.
- You must obtain an ETA before travelling if your transit involves passing through UK border control for example, to collect and re-check your baggage.
- Make sure to note the increase in the ETA application fee from £10 to £16. Keep this in mind for your travel plans.
Conclusion
The temporary ETA exemption by the UK of certain transit passengers identifies a responsive approach to industry feedback with a view toward easier travel experiences. However, travelers must always be alert to the specific requirements relevant to the transit situation and maintain awareness of any further changes in the ETA system.