New UK travel permit for European visitors rolls out today: What you need to know

Starting Wednesday, European visitors to the UK will need a new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) permit, marking a significant shift in Britain’s travel rules. The permit aims to enhance border security and simplify entry procedures but comes with a price hike just days after its launch.
What is the ETA and how does it work?
The ETA, already in place for American, Canadian, and other visa-exempt travelers, is now being introduced for nationals from around 30 European countries, excluding Ireland. It is digitally linked to the applicant’s passport, allowing multiple visits of up to six months and remaining valid for two years.
Applying for an ETA takes about 10 minutes via a smartphone app or government website, requiring a…