Beginning in late 2024 and extending into 2025, the United Kingdom is set to implement its new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system — a digital travel permit that will be required for visa-exempt travelers aiming for short visits. For holders of Indian, Pakistani, and Filipino passports, this development signifies an important shift in how you plan your travel to the UK.
While citizens of these nations still need a visa to enter the UK, the ETA system is anticipated to eventually be significant for nationals transiting through the UK or entering under potential future relaxed regulations, such as transit without visa (TWOV) or short-stay travel corridor initiatives. Currently, it affects certain countries like Qatar, but India, Pakistan, and the Philippines are expected to join the digital pre-clearance system soon — particularly for business travelers, tourists, and individuals with visas from countries such as the US or Canada.
What Is the ETA and Why Is It Important?
The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) acts as a digital security screening measure — akin to the ESTA for the US or the eTA for Canada. It enables UK authorities to evaluate travelers before they get on their flight. Once authorized, an ETA allows for multiple short stays (lasting up to six months per visit) for purposes like tourism, business, transit, or brief study.
Previously, many travelers could enter the UK without any form of digital approval, but the UK government is now enhancing border security and digitizing travel procedures. This move is in line with its post-Brexit immigration approach and the broader aim of achieving a fully digital border by 2026.
The £16 Charge: Who Is Responsible and How?
A significant update accompanying the ETA launch is the rise in application fees. Originally expected to be around £10, the confirmed cost is now £16 per applicant. This fee applies each time a new ETA is requested, and the ETA remains valid for two years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.
Here’s what travelers from India, Pakistan, and the Philippines should be aware of:
The ETA does not substitute for a visa — nationals from these countries still require visas for the majority of UK visits.
Nonetheless, if you hold a valid UK visa or are transiting through the UK under qualifying conditions, you may eventually need an ETA.
The fee is non-refundable, and applications must be submitted online or through the UK ETA mobile application.
You will be required to provide biometric information, answer security-related questions, and furnish basic passport details.
While this might seem minor, the ETA is likely to serve as a vital aspect of travel compliance, especially for those who frequently stop in London or are applying for multi-country tours that include both the Schengen area and the UK.
ETA Implementation Schedule: When Will It Impact South Asians?
By mid-2025, the ETA system will be operational for citizens of Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan. It is anticipated that this will be expanded to other nations — including India, Pakistan, and the Philippines — by late 2025 or early 2026. This gradual implementation allows South Asian travelers time to adapt, but it’s also prudent to prepare ahead.
If you are a regular traveler, travel agent, or international student, staying updated on UK Home Office announcements is crucial. Being uninformed during the launch could lead to flight delays or denied boarding — even during transit.
Travel Smarter with Worldify Overseas
At Worldify Overseas Pvt. Ltd., we assist Indian, Pakistani, and Filipino clients in remaining visa-ready, keeping track of regulatory changes, and avoiding last-minute complications.
Whether you are planning to study in London, attend meetings in Manchester, or simply transit through Heathrow — being aware of the ETA is now an essential part of travel planning.