Dublin: The decision to implement Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for UK arrivals is expected to benefit both the Irish and UK tourism industries significantly. With the gradual implementation of this system, it is possible that lakhs of tourists will arrive in both countries by the end of next year.
Post-Brexit, border controls were expected. Although the ETA system is one of them, Britain believes that it will also lead to increased tourist revenue.
Ireland’s request was accepted; no ETA is required for Indians in Ireland.
All those legally residing in Ireland have been exempted from this system announced by the UK. As a result, non-Irish citizens living in Ireland can freely travel to Northern Ireland or other parts of the United Kingdom. This was due to the Irish government’s strong intervention.
However, the new system requires tourists staying in Northern Ireland for more than 72 hours to have an ETA. This will pose a big threat to tourists, according to the tourism industry. Because 70% of visitors spend the majority of their time in the north.
70% of visitors to Northern Ireland arrive via Ireland. On weekends, people frequently decide to make quick trips to the north. It is expected that processing applications for ETA will take at least three days, which adds to the difficulty. They also worry that travellers may avoid travelling to Ireland to avoid this.
They say that many travellers don’t even have the idea that they are travelling in two different jurisdictions, and it can be a problem. Many people are unaware that the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland have separate currencies. They also claim that this will be a major issue for tour operators.
The tourism sector in Northern Ireland is also disappointed with the lack of concessions for cross-border tourism. The Tourism Alliance CEO, Joanne Stuart, has openly admitted this. The Irish government is aware of the threats posed by the ETA to the Irish tourism industry and will discuss this with the UK government.
What exactly is the ETA?
An ETA is not a visa, but it does permit entry into the United Kingdom.
All visitors who do not currently need to apply for a visa are required to obtain an ETA prior to travel. A complete list of which countries are permitted to enter the UK without a visa has yet to be released.
An ETA can be valid for six months to two years. The application process, like the US Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA), is subject to a small fee. It is unclear how much it will cost.
The guidelines suggest that travellers apply at least a few days before their planned journey and get permission within 72 hours.
How do I apply for an ETA to enter the United Kingdom?
Visitors will need to complete an online application form, which will grant them permission to enter the UK. According to the government, the majority of applicants will be able to apply through a mobile application and receive a quick decision on their application.
A valid biometric passport from an eligible country, travel details, an email address, and a credit or debit card are required. A series of questions must be answered by the applicant.
A way for tourists from all over the world to reach the UK.
Visitors from Qatar will be able to apply for the UK’s new ETA scheme from October 2023. Visitors from the Gulf Cooperation Council and Jordan will be able to visit the UK under the ETA scheme beginning in February 2024.
With ETA becoming a requirement by the end of 2024, this will be extended year-round worldwide.
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