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Travelling to the UK – ETA

Australians will soon need to obtain permission before travelling to the United Kingdom, as part of the UK’s efforts to enhance border security.

The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme, first introduced in November last year, will now be extended to include travellers from non-European countries, including Australia. Under the scheme, those who do not require a visa to visit the UK will need to secure an ETA before their trip.

The UK government has confirmed that applications for ETAs will open on 27 November, but they won’t be mandatory for travel until 8 January 2025. By April 2025, all travellers, including children, will be required to have an ETA to enter the UK.

The cost of an ETA will be £10 (approximately A$20), and it will allow multiple visits to the UK for stays of up to six months within a two-year period, or until the traveller’s passport expires. Applications can be submitted through the UK ETA app, with approvals typically processed within three working days and linked directly to the traveller’s passport.

Currently, the scheme applies to visitors from several Gulf countries, including Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. The UK Government is collaborating with airlines, maritime services, and rail carriers to ensure the smooth rollout of the expanded ETA scheme.

Travelling to Europe – ETIAS

Welcome to the comprehensive guide on the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) for Australian citizens.  As we approach 2025, it becomes crucial for Australians planning to visit Europe to understand the new ETIAS requirements.  This guide is designed to provide you with all the necessary information about the ETIAS application process, eligibility criteria, and the benefits of obtaining this travel authorisation.  Whether you’re travelling for business, tourism, or transit, we aim to ensure a smooth and informed journey to Europe.

Let’s explore what ETIAS means for Australian travellers and how to navigate this new requirement with ease.

Contents

ETIAS Eligibility for Australian Citizens

As Australia gears up to join the ETIAS program in 2025, Australian citizens should be aware of the key eligibility criteria for this new travel authorisation system.

Designed to enhance security while facilitating easier travel into Europe, ETIAS comes with specific guidelines for Australian travellers:

  • Online Application: The process is entirely online, providing convenience and accessibility for applicants.
  • Purpose of Visit: ETIAS authorisation covers short-term visits, including tourism, business, transit, and medical purposes.
  • Passport Requirements: A valid, machine-readable e-passport is mandatory for the ETIAS application.
  • Fee Waivers: Australian citizens under 18 or over 70 years of age will benefit from waived ETIAS application fees.

Understanding these criteria is the first step for Australian citizens planning a trip to Europe, ensuring a smooth and compliant travel experience under the new ETIAS regulations.

ETIAS Application Process

Navigating the ETIAS application process is straightforward and user-friendly.

Here’s a step-by-step guide for Australian citizens:

  1. Access the Online Portal: Begin by visiting the official ETIAS or the ETIAS mobile app and accessing the application form.
  2. Fill Out the Application: Provide personal details, passport information, and answer security and health-related questions.
  3. Document Submission: Ensure your machine-readable e-passport details are correctly entered.
  4. Application Review: Double-check your application for accuracy to avoid any potential delays or rejections.
  5. Payment of Fees: Submit the required fee (unless exempt due to age).
  6. Submit and Wait for Approval: Once submitted, most applications are processed within minutes.
  7. Receive ETIAS via Email: Successful applicants will receive their ETIAS authorization electronically.

It’s advised to apply at least 96 hours before your departure to Europe, ensuring ample time for processing and resolving any potential issues.

Other ETIAS Requirements

In addition to the basic eligibility and application process, there are several other important ETIAS requirements that Australian citizens should be aware of:

  • Travel Purpose: ETIAS is valid for short stays (up to 90 days) for tourism, business, transit, and medical visits.
  • Mode of Arrival: ETIAS covers arrivals in Europe by air, sea, or land.
  • Validity and Use: Once issued, ETIAS is valid for three years or until the passport expires, and it allows for multiple entries into the Schengen Zone.
  • Age Considerations: Applicants under 18 or over 70 years are exempt from the application fee.

Understanding these additional requirements will help ensure a seamless travel experience for Australian citizens under the ETIAS program.

  • Operational Details: From 2025, all eligible travellers, including Australians, must obtain ETIAS authorisation prior to entering the Schengen Zone for short-term visits.

New Zealand

If you are travelling to New Zealand take the easy route and use the online Travel Declaration! https://www.travellerdeclaration.govt.nz/nztd-app/
Everyone travelling into New Zealand must complete a New Zealand Traveller Declaration. To make your arrival easier, do your digital declaration before you board your flight to New Zealand.
Go to TravellerDeclaration.govt.nz or download the NZTD app today.

To see what countries will require Visas visit the below links

​If you have any questions regarding visas please do not hesitate to give Snaffle Travel a call on 0427 286061.