The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade has advised that the United Kingdom (UK) is introducing an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme globally.
The UK ETA takes effect from Wednesday, January 8, 2025, and nationals of Barbados will therefore be required to apply for the ETA online or via the UK ETA app. Persons may begin applying for the ETA from Wednesday, November 27, 2024.
The Electronic Travel Authorisation is linked to the passport used in the application and is valid for multiple trips to the UK over a two-year period. If persons acquire a new passport, they will need to get a new ETA. The application fee is £10, and applicants will receive an email confirmation within three working days or sooner.
While an ETA grants individuals permission to travel to the UK, it does not grant them entry. So, they will still need to go through passport control at the border to enter the UK.
Everyone travelling or transiting the United Kingdom needs to get an ETA, including babies and children. Applications can be made for other people. However, refunds will not be granted after applications have been submitted.
To apply for the ETA and for further details, persons may visit https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apply-for-an-electronic-travel-authorisation-eta.
The UK ETA does not apply to countries whose nationals require a visa to enter the UK. In addition, it cannot be used for travel to the UK for the purpose of work, study, or residence.
The United Kingdom authorities have indicated that the ETA scheme will strengthen the UK’s border security and expedite safe travel for nationals of Barbados as they pass through the UK border.
In addition, the ETA scheme will be used to facilitate increased automation as the UK works towards a contactless border.