UK to enforce digital permission to enter Britain, travel beyond

LONDON, Feb 24 (KUNA) -- The UK will enforce starting February 25 its digital permission scheme, which will bar non-visa nationals from entering the UK without an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) or travel beyond while in transit, according to a government statement late Tuesday.
The Home Office revealed that "It will be mandatory for visitors to the UK to have obtained digital permission to travel." "Airlines will prevent passengers from boarding if they do not have an ETA, eVisa or have other valid documentation," it added, noting that 85 nationalities, including citizens from the US, Canada, and France, are now legally required to have an ETA when traveling to the UK.
"An ETA costs آ£16, permits multiple journeys, and lasts for 2 years or until the holder's passport expires - whichever is sooner." The statement indicated that "British and Irish citizens, including dual citizens, are exempt from needing an ETA but will be required to present either a valid British passport or Certificate of Entitlement when travelling to the UK." "This is the same approach taken by other countries, including the US, Australia and Canada. At their own discretion, carriers may accept some expired British passports as alternative documentation." "ETAs are also mandatory for visitors who travel to the UK to take connecting flights and go through passport control." (end) gta.ibi