New Requirements for Travel to the United Kingdom

From January 8, 2025, all citizens of St. Kitts and Nevis traveling to the United Kingdom by airplane are required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). This is mandatory for short-term stays of up to six months for purposes such as tourism, business, or short-term study.

Applications for the UK ETA are now open, and can be completed via a mobile app or online portal.

About the ETA

The ETA is linked to your passport and is valid for multiple trips over two years. You will need to obtain a new ETA if your passport changes. The application fee is UK £10, and confirmation is typically sent within three working days.

Eligibility and Conditions

All travelers, including babies and children, must have an ETA. However, having an ETA does not guarantee entry into the UK – travelers will still need to go through passport control upon arrival.

The ETA is not valid for work, study, or residency in the UK, and does not apply to nationals who already need a visa for UK entry. This system aims to strengthen border security, improve travel efficiency, and move towards a contactless border process.

How to Apply

For more details or to apply, visit https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apply-for-an-electronic-travel-authorisation-eta.

Conclusion

The introduction of the UK ETA is an important step in the government’s efforts to strengthen border security and improve travel efficiency. Citizens of St. Kitts and Nevis traveling to the UK are urged to ensure they comply with this new requirement and apply for their ETA in a timely manner.

Frequently Asked Questions

* Is the ETA mandatory for all travel to the UK? Yes, for short-term stays of up to six months.
* How do I apply for the ETA? You can apply via a mobile app or online portal.
* Is there a fee for the ETA? Yes, it costs UK £10.
* Is the ETA valid for all types of travel to the UK? No, it is only valid for short-term stays (up to six months) and not for work, study, or residency in the UK.