Australians will need to apply for digital permission to enter the UK from January.

The days of simply flashing your Australian passport at Heathrow Airport are almost over.

From tomorrow, changes to the UK’s border security system will mean Australian travellers need to apply for permission to enter the UK.

The UK government is modernizing its border security by introducing the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme. This initiative, launched last year, will eventually necessitate all non-visa-required visitors not born in the UK or Ireland to obtain travel permission before their journey.

Australians will need to apply for digital permission to enter the UK from January.
Australians will need to apply for digital permission to enter the UK from January.(AP)

How long will it be valid?

Validity lasts for two years and multiple entries — so you can visit as often as you please.

It’s important to understand that this authorization will be electronically linked to your passport. Consequently, if you acquire a new passport within the two-year validity period, you will need to reapply for the ETA.

Can families get a joint ETA?

Everyone entering the UK needs their own ETA, including children and even babies. But you can apply on somebody else’s behalf.

Does this mean I can stay as long as I like?

The ETA is only intended for short stays of up to six months.

I’m just transiting through the UK. Do I still need the ETA?

Every individual entering the UK territory, even those with brief onward travel plans, must possess an ETA. Similar to the US requirement for ESTA, passengers transiting through the UK will be denied entry to the transit zone without this authorization.

Does this cover me to enter Europe, too?

To enter Europe, you’ll need an ETIAS — the EU travel waiver, which has been much delayed but is currently slated to start some time in 2025. Stay tuned for details as the countdown approaches.
You May Also Like
Even the AEC doesn't know how many 'donkey votes' are cast at the polls

“The Exact Number of Informal Votes at Polls Stumps AEC”

Some will do this intentionally, while others will cast one without even…
A general view of Palliser Road, Roseneath, where police said two people died

Tragic Incident: British Couple Found Deceased in New Zealand in Suspicious Circumstances

A British couple were found dead in an apparent murder-suicide at their…
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese at a press conference

“Albanese Commits to Ensuring Pay Increase Outpaces Inflation with Labor”

The prime minister has committed to advocating for Australia’s lowest-paid workers to…
Ben Anderson had worked at universities in Britain and New Zealand

Local reveals that the British couple involved in a murder-suicide were previously considered “dream neighbours” and the wife felt unsafe in London before relocating to New Zealand

The British couple found dead in an apparent murder-suicide in New Zealand have…