Hongkongers can apply for UK ETAs from Nov. 27 for new requirements starting Jan 2024
The UK Home Office announced on Sept. 10 that starting from Jan. 8, 2024, visitors from nearly 50 countries and regions, including Hong Kong and Macao, will need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before entering the UK.
Residents of the above areas can start applying for the ETA from Nov. 27 this year, and they will typically receive a response within three working days. The application fee is £10 (approximately HK$102), and the ETA is valid for two years, allowing multiple entries into the UK. If a new passport is issued during the validity of an ETA, a new application will be required. ETA Website Application Link
Applications can be made through the 'UK ETA' app, available for iOS users on the App Store and for Android users on the Google Play Store. Guidance in English on how to use the app and apply is provided.
Both Hong Kong SAR passport and British National (Overseas) passport holders need to apply for an ETA, except those with a BNO visa.
Once approved, applicants will receive an email confirmation linking the ETA to the passport used during the application. This generally applies to visa-exempt individuals traveling to the UK for tourism, visiting relatives, business, or short-term study for up to six months, including those merely transiting through.
Airlines are authorized to deny boarding to passengers without an ETA. Scanning a passport at check-in will indicate whether the holder has applied for an ETA, and applicants can also print out the email confirming their successful ETA application.
Those who have applied for visas that allow longer stays for work or study, or those who need a visa upon entry regardless, do not need to apply for an ETA.
The ETA application is being implemented in phases. Currently, residents of six Middle Eastern countries, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE, can apply. Starting Nov. 27, this will extend to approximately 50 countries and regions, including Hong Kong, Macao, Taiwan, Japan, Canada, Singapore, South Korea, and the United States. As for European countries like France, Germany, Spain, Poland, and Italy, applications will be accepted from March 5, 2024, with implementation beginning on April 2, 2024.
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