Starting April 2, 2025, citizens of the European Union, including Romanians, will need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to enter Great Britain. This new requirement marks a significant change in travel regulations and aims to bolster border security while managing immigration.
The British government has mandated that all travelers from EU countries, including minors and infants, must secure this electronic permit before their arrival. The ETA is not only necessary for direct entry into the UK but also for transiting through the country to reach other destinations. Applications for the ETA must be submitted through the official "UK ETA" app.
The ETA is valid for two years and allows for multiple entries during that period, providing a flexible travel option for those visiting family, friends, or for business purposes. The cost for the ETA is set at 10 pounds, roughly equivalent to 60 lei, applicable to all age categories. This fee is payable upon application submission, and importantly, it is non-refundable in the event of a rejection.
To be eligible for the ETA, applicants must possess a clean criminal record, with no prior legal issues that could complicate their entry into the UK. This requirement reflects the UK government’s efforts to reduce illegal immigration and enhance overall security at its borders.
According to the Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the ETA represents a streamlined process for European travelers, allowing them to bypass the traditional visa requirements for short visits. "ETA is a new digital travel permit that is mandatory for citizens of countries that can visit England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland without a visa for short trips. Among these are Romanian citizens. This will simplify travel to the UK for visiting family and friends of the approximately 270,000 Romanians living in the UK," stated the official ETA UK website.
The new system is particularly beneficial for the nearly 500,000 Romanians who visit the UK annually for leisure, business, or study. The application process is designed to be quick and user-friendly, taking about 20 minutes to complete online, eliminating the need for in-person visits to consulates or visa offices.
One of the key advantages of the ETA is its low cost, which is comparable to other digital travel permits like the ESTA in the United States or the eTA in Canada. This affordability, combined with the convenience of an online application, makes it an appealing option for travelers.
Once approved, the ETA will be electronically linked to the passport used for the application and does not require printing. "ETA is an electronic document that grants permission to travel to the UK for visa-exempt nationals who have been pre-checked. It is not a visa, allowing applicants to skip the complex and lengthy visa process," explained British authorities.
However, it’s important to note that the ETA is not a substitute for visas required for longer stays or work. Individuals wishing to remain in the UK for more than six months must still adhere to existing visa requirements, which remain unchanged.
Eligibility criteria for Romanians seeking an ETA include having a valid biometric passport and not having any criminal convictions or immigration violations. All travelers, including children and infants, must have an approved ETA prior to traveling. Parents and guardians are permitted to apply for ETA on behalf of their children, simplifying the process further.
For those with criminal records or previous immigration issues, the ETA application may be denied. Such individuals are advised to consider applying for a traditional British visa, which involves a different set of procedures. Additionally, the ETA is not valid for travel to other European countries, including Ireland, and does not permit entry into other EU states.
In summary, the introduction of the ETA is a significant development for travelers from the EU to the UK, particularly for Romanians. This new electronic travel authorization is designed to enhance border security while facilitating easier travel for short visits. As the UK continues to adapt its immigration policies, travelers are encouraged to stay informed about the latest requirements to ensure a smooth journey.
