UK Border Entry Fee Set to Increase as Transit Rules Change

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International travelers will soon face higher costs to enter the UK as the government announces a 60% increase in its Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) fee, rising from £10 to £16. The price hike comes just months after the system’s introduction.

However, in a move that will benefit thousands of connecting passengers, Heathrow and Manchester airports have secured a temporary exemption for travelers who don’t pass through UK border control while changing flights.

The changes reflect a broader review of the UK’s migration and border system funding. A Home Office spokesperson confirmed that current rates will continue to apply until the new fee receives parliamentary approval.

Key Changes:

  • Non-Europeans applying now will pay £10
  • Europeans can apply from March 5th at the current £10 rate
  • New £16 fee will apply after parliamentary approval
  • Transit passengers at Heathrow and Manchester exempt from January 16th

The ETA system, similar to the US ESTA and EU’s upcoming ETIAS, requires visitors to obtain pre-travel authorization. The system was initially launched for Gulf states in October 2023 and has been gradually expanding to other nationalities.

Industry Response

Aviation experts have welcomed the transit exemption but expressed concern about the fee increase. “While we appreciate the government listening to industry feedback about transit passengers, raising fees by 60% so soon after launch risks impacting tourism,” said a spokesperson for the British Air Transport Association.

The new rules particularly affect Heathrow Airport, which handles over 5.5 million transit passengers annually. The airport’s management called the transit exemption “a sensible approach to maintaining UK aviation’s competitive position.”

What Travelers Need to Know

Those planning UK trips should note:

  • Current applications are still processed at £10
  • Fee increase pending parliamentary approval
  • Connecting flights at Heathrow/Manchester now exempt
  • System mandatory for non-visa nationals visiting UK

The government maintains that even at £16, the UK’s ETA remains competitively priced compared to similar systems worldwide.

A writer who loves all things British.

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