Starting January 2025, Barbadians will need to obtain advance permission before traveling to the United Kingdom, as part of the UK government’s plan to digitize its border and immigration systems for enhanced security.
On Tuesday, the British government announced implementation dates for its new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme, which will soon impact travelers from the Caribbean.
According to a statement from the British High Commission, “Everyone wishing to travel to the UK—except British and Irish citizens—will need permission in advance, either through an Electronic Travel Authorisation or an eVisa.”
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Non-European travelers can apply for an ETA starting November 27, 2024, with the requirement taking effect from January 8, 2025. European nationals will need an ETA for travel beginning April 2, 2025.
An ETA costs £10 (BDS$26.45) and allows multiple trips to the UK for stays of up to six months within a two-year period or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. ETAs will be digitally linked to the traveler’s passport, enabling robust security checks before departure to the UK to strengthen immigration control.
Seema Malhotra, the Minister for Migration and Citizenship, emphasized that digitization will provide a seamless experience for the millions who pass through UK borders annually. She noted that the ETA expansion shows the UK’s dedication to bolstering security through modern technology.
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The introduction of ETAs aligns the UK with other countries, like the US and Australia, that have implemented similar systems.
Migrants already living in the UK are encouraged to switch from physical immigration documents, such as Biometric Residence Permits (BRP) or ink-stamped passports, to digital eVisas. Most BRPs are set to expire by the end of 2024, and holders are urged to create an online account to access their immigration status digitally.
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