Traveling to the United Kingdom could soon become more expensive. The UK government has proposed a significant increase in the cost of its Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) fee, even as the program is still being introduced.
The ETA, which is being rolled out in phases, currently applies to citizens from over 50 countries. The government’s proposal suggests raising the fee by up to 60%, from £10 to £16. This move has sparked mixed reactions from industry leaders.
Julia Lo Bue-Said, CEO of the Advantage Travel Partnership, expressed concern over the potential impact on the travel industry. “A thriving inbound sector is essential for a healthy outbound industry,” she said. “Instead of increasing costs, the government should focus on encouraging growth and leveraging the demand for travel to boost the economy, create jobs, and support destinations.”
Tim Alderslade, CEO of Airlines UK, offered a different perspective. He described the proposed fee hike as a “pragmatic step” to address the risk of the UK losing business to European hubs that do not require transit visas. “We urge the government to make this exemption permanent,” he added. “Transit passengers play a crucial role in sustaining international routes, especially to emerging markets.”
The ETA program allows travelers to enter the UK without a visa, and vice versa. However, the scheme is expected to generate up to 30 million additional applications annually, raising concerns about processing capacity and efficiency.
Initially, the ETA requirement included travelers with layovers in the UK. However, the government recently exempted transit passengers from the fee, a move welcomed by airlines and travelers alike.
The proposed fee increase comes as the UK continues to refine its border control policies. While the government aims to streamline entry processes, the higher cost could deter some travelers, potentially impacting the tourism and aviation sectors. Industry leaders are calling for a balanced approach that supports both security and economic growth.
As the proposal moves forward, its implications for travelers and the broader economy remain a topic of debate.
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