UK exempts transit flyers from new travel rules; considers raising fees

Research

Caroline English Director of Social Media and Brand | The Points Guy

By Sky Industry News

Jan 17, 2025

The United Kingdom has made adjustments to its recently launched Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) program, which was introduced for U.S. passengers on January 8. Initially, the ETA required nonvisa travelers, including those transiting through the U.K., to apply for authorization and pay a fee of 10 British pounds.

Following feedback from the aviation sector, the government has decided that transit passengers will no longer need an ETA. This change comes after criticism from airlines such as British Airways and Virgin Atlantic, and airport operators who argued that the rule was uncompetitive compared to other global hubs.

Heathrow Airport expressed concerns that the initial policy could lead to a loss of up to four million passengers annually. "The removal of airside transit passengers from the ETA scheme is the right decision and we welcome it," said Heathrow CEO Thomas Woldbye. He added that it demonstrates "the Government is listening to industry concerns and is willing to make necessary changes."

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Despite this exemption for transit travelers, there are proposals to increase the ETA fee for other nonvisa travelers by 60%. The suggested increase would raise the fee from 10 pounds to 16 pounds. The proposal must still be debated in Parliament before being approved.

According to the Home Office, these changes could generate an additional 269 million pounds annually if implemented. Most travelers entering the U.K. will still need an ETA unless they hold specific exemptions such as a British or Irish passport or a valid U.K. visa.

The recent developments mean reduced paperwork for transit passengers at major airports like Heathrow and Manchester but may result in higher costs for others traveling to the U.K.