All American travelers to the UK must register for Electronic Travel Authorization starting January 8.
A new wrinkle in transatlantic travel to—or transiting through—the UK requires every traveler, including meeting and incentive attendees, to register in a British digital data base. Planners should take note that this applies not only to direct flights, but also to connections through UK airports to other overseas destinations.
Applications for The Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) are being accepted now and it is required as of January 8. The cost is £10, or roughly $12.50. The ETA is valid for visits of up to six months and lasts for two years unless travelers get a new passport. It reportedly takes an average of three days for applicants to receive an email confirmation (linked to their passport) but it could take longer. The ETA website recommends applying for an ETA at least 72 hours before departure—although it’s advisable for group attendees to apply 30 days before the trip in case of any processing glitches or delays.
It’s critical to alert every attendee traveling to or through the UK of the ETA requirement and confirm their registration. Each traveler in a group needs to make a separate application. It’s acceptable to apply online for others—so theoretically, planners can apply for their attendees by submitting the required information. This includes a headshot photo and a photo of the traveler’s passport. Travel details are not required.
If attendees don’t register, they won’t be allowed to visit or transit through the UK. If they register last minute, they can travel to the UK while waiting for a response.
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