Latest news with #ElectronicTravelAuthorization
Time Business News
4 days ago
- Business
- Time Business News
UK ETA Visa for Canadian Citizens: A Complete Guide
The UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is a new travel requirement for Canadian citizens visiting the United Kingdom. Similar to the US ESTA, the UK ETA allows Canadians to enter the UK for various purposes or even transit through the country without the need for a full visa. Starting January 8, 2025, all Canadian travelers must apply for the UK ETA before their trip. Applications will open on November 27, 2024, for travel starting in January. The UK introduced the ETA to streamline entry for visitors. The UK ETA grants Canadian citizens permission for the following types of travel: Tourism : Visits for sightseeing, visiting family, or short-term study (up to 6 months) : Visits for sightseeing, visiting family, or short-term study (up to 6 months) Business : Short-term business trips (up to 6 months) : Short-term business trips (up to 6 months) Creative Work : Paid work for up to 3 months in creative industries : Paid work for up to 3 months in creative industries Transit: Passing through the UK without crossing border control The UK launched the ETA system on October 25, 2023, initially for Qatari citizens. It expanded to other countries, including Jordan, Bahrain, Oman, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE in February 2024. By November 27, 2024, 49 additional countries, including the US, will also be eligible. From March 5, 2025, travelers from 34 European countries will require a UK ETA as well. While the UK ETA is convenient for short visits, there are limitations: You cannot stay longer than 6 months in the UK. in the UK. You cannot work for a UK company or be self-employed unless you hold a specific visa like the Creative Worker visa. or be self-employed unless you hold a specific visa like the Creative Worker visa. You cannot claim public funds or benefits. or benefits. You cannot live in the UK by making frequent visits. by making frequent visits. Marriage or civil partnership registration requires a different visa, such as the Marriage Visitor visa. The UK ETA offers several advantages: Fast and Simple Application : The process is online, simple, and takes only a few minutes. : The process is online, simple, and takes only a few minutes. Multiple Trips Made Easy : Once approved, you can visit the UK multiple times within the ETA's validity period without reapplying. : Once approved, you can visit the UK multiple times within the ETA's validity period without reapplying. Effortless Entry : With pre-authorization, the UK entry process becomes faster and more efficient. : With pre-authorization, the UK entry process becomes faster and more efficient. Fast Processing Times : Most applications are processed within hours, and at most, within 3 working days. : Most applications are processed within hours, and at most, within 3 working days. Increased Security: Pre-approval helps ensure safer travel by screening travelers ahead of time. To qualify for a UK ETA, you must meet the following requirements: Valid Canadian Passport : You must hold a Canadian passport with at least six months of validity remaining from your planned arrival in the UK. : You must hold a Canadian passport with at least six months of validity remaining from your planned arrival in the UK. Short Stay : The ETA is only for visits of up to 6 months . For longer stays, apply for the appropriate visa. : The ETA is only for visits of up to . For longer stays, apply for the appropriate visa. No Criminal Record: Applicants must not have a serious criminal record, particularly convictions leading to sentences of 12 months or more. Here's how to apply for the UK ETA in 3 easy steps: Fill Out the Application Form: Complete the online form with your personal details and travel information. Upload a copy of your passport and a recent photo. Pay the Application Fee: Pay the application fee via credit card, debit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay. Receive Your ETA: Most applications are processed within a few hours. You will receive your ETA via email. If there are issues, the processing time can take up to 3 working days. Valid Passport : Make sure your Canadian passport is valid for at least 6 months from your planned arrival. : Make sure your Canadian passport is valid for at least from your planned arrival. Recent Photo : Upload a clear photo following the UK's guidelines (minimum 600 x 750 pixels , 50 KB to 10 MB , and a white background). : Upload a clear photo following the UK's guidelines (minimum , , and a white background). Payment Method : You can pay the application fee using credit cards , debit cards , Apple Pay , or Google Pay . : You can pay the application fee using , , , or . Active Email Address: Provide a frequently checked email address to receive updates about your application. The UK ETA fee for Canadian citizens is £00 (including government and service fees). The processing time is typically within 3 working days, but it can be faster. It's best to apply early, especially during busy travel seasons. Validity : Your UK ETA is valid for 2 years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. : Your UK ETA is valid for or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. Stay Duration: Each stay must not exceed 6 months. If your passport expires before the ETA, you'll need to apply for a new ETA. Note: The UK ETA is non-renewable. If you plan to stay longer, you must apply for a suitable visa. If Approved : Once approved, you'll receive a confirmation email. The ETA is linked to your passport, allowing for quick and easy entry. : Once approved, you'll receive a confirmation email. The ETA is linked to your passport, allowing for quick and easy entry. If Rejected: If your application is rejected, you will receive the reason for rejection. Common reasons include incorrect details or failure to meet eligibility requirements. You can fix the errors and reapply. Common reasons for rejection and how to avoid them: Criminal Record : Serious convictions can affect approval. If you were sentenced to more than 12 months in prison , consult an immigration lawyer. : Serious convictions can affect approval. If you were sentenced to more than , consult an immigration lawyer. Incorrect Application Details : Double-check your application details for accuracy. : Double-check your application details for accuracy. Failure to Meet Eligibility Criteria : Make sure you fulfill all the requirements before applying. : Make sure you fulfill all the requirements before applying. Immigration Violations: Past immigration violations can lead to rejection. Resolve any issues before applying. The UK ETA is linked to the passport you used during the application. Always travel with the passport connected to your ETA. When you arrive in the UK, border officers will scan your passport to confirm your ETA. To check your UK ETA status: Visit the UK ETA Status page on the official website. Enter your Unique Application Reference number. Click submit to view your application status. If you lose your reference number, you'll need to contact customer support for assistance. The UK ETA is different from a visa. While the ETA is a quick, online travel authorization, a UK Visa requires more steps, including form filling and sometimes an in-person visit. The UK ETA is simpler, more affordable, and available for multiple trips within its validity period. One-way flights from Ottawa to London start at $400 USD (~£330 GBP). to start at (~£330 GBP). Popular airlines include Air Canada , British Airways , Lufthansa , and WestJet . , , , and . Flight duration: About 6-7 hours . . Popular destinations: London, Manchester, Edinburgh. Currency Exchange : It's wise to exchange Canadian Dollars (CAD) for British Pounds (GBP) before your trip. : It's wise to exchange for before your trip. ATMs : Easily accessible in major cities like London , Manchester , and Edinburgh . Ensure your Canadian bank card works internationally. : Easily accessible in major cities like , , and . Ensure your Canadian bank card works internationally. Credit Cards : Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted, but carry some cash for smaller towns. : and are widely accepted, but carry some cash for smaller towns. Currency Exchange Rates: Airport booths may have higher rates. Local banks or currency exchange shops may offer better rates. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Time Business News
4 days ago
- Business
- Time Business News
UK ETA for German Citizens: A Simple & Easy Guide
The UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is a new travel requirement for German citizens planning to visit the United Kingdom. Similar to the US ESTA, the UK ETA allows German travelers to enter the UK for specific purposes, or even transit through the country. Starting January 8, 2025, all German travelers must apply for a UK ETA before their trip. The application process will open on November 27, 2024, for travel beginning January 8. The UK introduced the ETA to streamline the entry process for visitors. The ETA permits short stays for the following purposes: Tourism : Visiting friends and family, or enjoying leisure activities. : Visiting friends and family, or enjoying leisure activities. Short-term study : For stays of up to 6 months. : For stays of up to 6 months. Business trips : For professional purposes lasting up to 6 months. : For professional purposes lasting up to 6 months. Paid creative work : For up to 3 months. : For up to 3 months. Transit: Traveling through the UK without passing through border control. The UK ETA system was launched on October 25, 2023, beginning with Qatari citizens. It was later expanded to nationals from countries like Jordan, Bahrain, Oman, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE in February 2024. By November 27, 2024, the system will be extended to 49 more countries, including the US. Starting March 5, 2025, travelers from 34 European nations, including Germany, will also be required to obtain a UK ETA. In 2024, around 2.5 million Germans visited the UK for various purposes, including tourism, business, and family connections. If you're planning to travel to the UK in 2025, make sure to apply for your UK ETA. The process is quick and easy, so be sure to apply ahead of time. While the UK ETA simplifies travel, there are some limitations: Stay Duration : You cannot stay in the UK for more than 6 months. : You cannot stay in the UK for more than 6 months. Work Restrictions : You cannot work for a UK company or be self-employed unless you have a special permit, such as a Creative Worker visa. : You cannot work for a UK company or be self-employed unless you have a special permit, such as a Creative Worker visa. Public Funds : You cannot claim public benefits or funds. : You cannot claim public benefits or funds. Frequent Visits : The ETA does not allow frequent stays with the purpose of living in the UK. : The ETA does not allow frequent stays with the purpose of living in the UK. Marriage: If you plan to marry or register a civil partnership, you'll need a Marriage Visitor visa instead. Fast and Simple Application : The entire application process is online and can be completed in minutes. : The entire application process is online and can be completed in minutes. Multiple Entries : You can travel to the UK as often as you like within the validity period without reapplying. : You can travel to the UK as often as you like within the validity period without reapplying. Effortless Entry : Pre-approved travel authorization means faster border entry. : Pre-approved travel authorization means faster border entry. Fast Processing : Most applications are processed within hours, with a maximum wait time of three working days. : Most applications are processed within hours, with a maximum wait time of three working days. Enhanced Security: The ETA helps improve safety by screening travelers in advance. To be eligible for the UK ETA, German citizens must: Hold a valid German passport . . Stay for up to 6 months . . Have a clean criminal record: If you have a serious criminal record, your application may be denied. The process is simple and can be completed online in three easy steps: Fill Out the Application Form: Complete the online form with your personal details and contact information. Upload a clear copy of your passport and a recent photo. Pay the Application Fee: Pay the required fee using a credit card, debit card, or other accepted methods. Receive Your UK ETA: You will usually receive your approval within hours. The maximum processing time is three working days. Valid Passport : Your passport must have at least six months of validity from the date you plan to arrive in the UK. : Your passport must have at least six months of validity from the date you plan to arrive in the UK. Recent Photo : Your photo should meet UK guidelines (600×750 pixels, 50 KB to 10 MB, white background). : Your photo should meet UK guidelines (600×750 pixels, 50 KB to 10 MB, white background). Payment Method : You can pay using a credit card, debit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay. : You can pay using a credit card, debit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay. Active Email Address: Updates about your application will be sent to this email. Fee : The application fee is £00 (includes government fee and service charge). : The application fee is £00 (includes government fee and service charge). Processing Time: Most applications are processed within hours, with a maximum wait time of 3 working days. The UK ETA is valid for 2 years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. You can make multiple trips within this period, staying up to 6 months per visit. Note: If you get a new passport, you will need to apply for a new ETA. The ETA cannot be extended. Approval : If your application is approved, you'll receive an email confirmation. Your ETA will be linked to your passport, and you can travel without worries. : If your application is approved, you'll receive an email confirmation. Your ETA will be linked to your passport, and you can travel without worries. Rejection: If rejected, the reason will be provided. You can correct any mistakes and reapply. The UK ETA cannot be renewed. Once it expires after two years, you'll need to apply for a new one. Ensure to apply well before your ETA or passport expires to avoid disruptions in travel. Criminal Record: Serious convictions may lead to rejection. Incorrect Details: Double-check your application for errors to avoid rejection. Not Meeting Eligibility: Make sure you meet all the requirements before applying. Immigration Violations: A history of overstaying or violating immigration rules may also result in rejection. Passport : Always travel with the passport linked to your UK ETA. : Always travel with the passport linked to your UK ETA. Arrival in the UK: Border officers will scan your passport and ETA for quick entry. To check the status of your application: Visit the UK ETA Status page. Enter your Unique Application Reference number. Submit to view the status. If you lose the reference number, contact customer support for help. ETA : A quicker, more affordable option for eligible citizens. Valid for two years, with multiple entries allowed. : A quicker, more affordable option for eligible citizens. Valid for two years, with multiple entries allowed. Visa: A more detailed and expensive process, required for many nationals. Flight Routes : A one-way flight from Berlin to London starts around $50 USD (approximately €47). : A one-way flight from Berlin to London starts around $50 USD (approximately €47). Financial Tips: Exchange your Euros for Pounds, and carry a credit card or cash for emergencies. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Gulf Today
30-06-2025
- Gulf Today
Top 8 budget-friendly destinations for UAE travellers
With the peak summer vacation season approaching, UAE travelers are increasingly seeking nearby destinations that offer comfort, moderate weather, and affordability. In the summer of 2025, there has been a growing demand for several neighboring countries, particularly among families and individual travelers who prefer flights of less than five hours. Gulf Today, a sister publication of Al Khaleej, has compiled a list of the most popular destinations requiring a flight time of three to five hours from the UAE, along with average ticket prices for the period from August 1 to 7, and the entry requirements for UAE citizens and residents. 1. Georgia Tbilisi and Batumi remain among the most popular destinations, particularly due to their mild climate and affordable prices. The flight from Dubai to Tbilisi takes approximately three and a half hours, with prices starting from AED 1,300 for direct flights. Georgia allows travelers from the UAE to enter without a prior visa. 2. Armenia The capital, Yerevan, attracts travelers seeking a tranquil atmosphere and rich cultural sites. The flight takes less than four hours, with an average round-trip ticket price of around AED 1,300. As of July 1, the country allows UAE residents to enter without a visa. UAE citizens also do not require a visa. 3. Azerbaijan Azerbaijan stands out as a unique urban destination for those seeking a blend of modernity and oriental charm. The average ticket price is around AED 1,100 each way, and the flight from Dubai to Baku takes approximately three hours. UAE citizens can enter without a visa, while residents must obtain one upon arrival. 4. Turkey Turkey continues to attract tourists from the UAE, particularly to the moderately mountainous city of Trabzon. The average ticket price is around AED 2,000, with a flight time of no more than five hours. UAE residents require a visa to visit Turkey, while UAE citizens do not. 5. Egypt Egypt remains a favored destination for UAE travelers, especially Cairo and Alexandria, due to their proximity, cultural richness, and ease of communication. The flight takes approximately four hours, with an average round-trip ticket price of AED 2,100. 6. Sri Lanka Cities like Colombo are growing in popularity thanks to their tropical landscapes and family-friendly tourism infrastructure. The average ticket price is approximately AED 1,900, and the flight takes about four and a half hours. Both UAE citizens and residents are required to obtain an online Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). 7. India Destinations such as Goa and Kochi are becoming increasingly popular among UAE travelers for their unique beaches and cultural experiences. The flight takes approximately four hours, with an average round-trip ticket price of AED 1,300. Both UAE citizens and residents must apply for an Indian eVisa to visit. 8. Jordan (The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan) Jordan continues to attract visitors interested in cultural and religious tourism. The flight lasts no more than three hours, with an average ticket price of approximately AED 2,500. UAE citizens can enter without a visa, while residents are typically granted a visa on arrival or a temporary exemption, depending on their nationality. Travel agents recommend booking early, monitoring special offers, and checking updated entry requirements, especially in light of ongoing changes to policies and laws in some of these countries. They note that these destinations represent convenient options for those seeking short, seamless getaways without the complications of long visa processes or extended travel times.
Kuwait Times
19-06-2025
- Business
- Kuwait Times
VisitBritain promotes UK diverse summer tourism beyond London - Faten Omar,
162,000 Kuwaitis visited UK in 2024, a 6 percent increase from 2023 KUWAIT: In collaboration with the British Embassy in Kuwait, Britain's national tourism agency, VisitBritain, organized a special afternoon tea event on Tuesday aimed at promoting the UK's diverse summer tourism experiences beyond London. During her opening remarks, British Ambassador to Kuwait Belinda Lewis emphasized the importance of strengthening the close ties between the United Kingdom and Kuwait, noting the growing interest among Kuwaiti travelers in exploring the UK's home nations. Ambassador Lewis added that Kuwaitis made 162,000 visits to the UK in 2024, a 6 percent increase from 2023 — with an average spend of £2,641 per person. The Gulf region ranks as the UK's tenth-largest inbound market, and Kuwait is projected to have the third-highest visitor spend among GCC countries in 2025. The ambassador highlighted the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) scheme as a major driver of this growth, explaining that Kuwaitis made 148,854 applications between February 2024 and March 2025 - the second highest in the Gulf after Saudi Arabia. British Ambassador to Kuwait Belinda Lewis speaks at the event. Mirna Tamimi, Visit Britain's GCC Communications Manager speaks about the campaign. She also emphasized the Embassy's support for initiatives that showcase the UK's rich and diverse experiences, saying, 'We are delighted to welcome VisitBritain and media partners to the British Embassy today. As the long-standing bonds between the UK and Kuwait continue to strengthen, I am glad to see ever more Kuwaiti travelers choosing to visit the UK.' The event introduced VisitBritain's latest global campaign, Starring GREAT Britain, which taps into the rising trend of 'set-jetting' - visiting locations featured in popular films and TV series. The campaign invites travelers to discover iconic filming sites across England, Scotland and Wales. For her part, Mirna Tamimi, VisitBritain's GCC Communications Manager, showcased major events taking place this summer, including world-class sporting moments such as the British Grand Prix at Silverstone and the Wimbledon tennis tournament; Bath's festivities marking 250 years since the birth of renowned author Jane Austen; and the Liverpool Biennial, the UK's largest contemporary art festival. She also emphasized the ease of travel both to and within the UK, with 18 direct flights per week from Kuwait City to London and Manchester, and over 2,500 train stations connecting Britain's towns and cities. In his turn, Gary Robson, VisitBritain Director for Europe, Middle East & India, emphasized the importance of the Kuwaiti market, stating, 'Our collaboration with the British Embassy Kuwait helps us deepen ties in this key GCC region. We are working closely with local influencers and travel trade partners to inspire travel beyond London.' He added, 'Our culturally relevant campaigns, delivered in English and Arabic, are tailored to resonate locally through popular platforms such as Snapchat, which plays a key role in our engagement strategy across Kuwait and Saudi Arabia.'
Business Insider
09-06-2025
- Business Insider
I've been to over 90 countries. I'll never travel somewhere new before asking these 8 questions.
What are the public toilets like? When I first started traveling, I quickly learned that there is no one right way to use the toilet. Many Americans take the "porcelain throne" for granted, but in some parts of the world, it's common to squat over a hole in the ground. I've also visited countries where it's customary to pay an attendant a nominal amount for a square or two of toilet paper. In some countries' restrooms, you won't find toilet paper at all — but instead, a bidet or bucket of water to wipe yourself clean. To prepare for any and all bathroom situations, I try to bring a roll of toilet paper and plenty of hand sanitizer on every international trip. Can I brush my teeth with tap water? Many Americans, myself included, are used to turning on the tap and having fresh, clean water to drink and brush their teeth. However, this isn't the case everywhere. My travel experiences have taught me that nothing will ruin a trip faster than gastrointestinal distress from unsafe drinking water. Now, before I travel, I always check the US Department of State website to see if I'll need to stick to bottled water. If the country's tap water isn't safe to drink, I'll attach my toothbrush to a bottle with a rubber band. This helps me remember not to rinse my toothbrush under the tap — a mistake that's easy to make in the early morning. Do I need to apply for a visa ahead of time? If you have an American passport (like I do), you can visit some countries worldwide without being granted permission. However, there are many exceptions. Countries like India, Cambodia, and China require Americans to apply for a visa before visiting; and as of this year, Americans and Canadians need an Electronic Travel Authorization to enter the UK. To visit some countries, you'll have to go to a consulate and apply in person. For others, you can apply virtually. If you don't have the right type of visa, you might not be allowed to board your plane — or you might even be turned away at the border. As a frequent traveler, I always check whether I need a visa to travel as soon as I book a trip. Most countries' embassies will have this information on their websites. How can I get cell service without paying a fortune? When I'm traveling, I'm always terrified of being left without cellular service — but I also want to avoid pricy roaming fees and daily charges. To save money, I usually use a service like Airalo or Holafly to purchase an eSIM card when I travel out of the country. That way, I can access a local carrier and control costs. This method has worked for me all around the world. With an eSIM, I can still access my primary number's voicemail and text messages as long as I'm connected to WiFi. How will I charge my devices? Speaking of phones, you'll want to make sure you can actually charge your devices. Outlets are different all around the world, and I've learned the hard way that even adapters labeled as "universal" usually aren't. A quick online search will tell you which kind of adapter you need to stay powered up. Preparing ahead is important here — although airports usually sell adapters, they tend to be more expensive than ones you can order online. Do I need to get any vaccines, or prepare for any potential illnesses? I am up-to-date on all of the standard vaccines in the United States. However, several diseases that are largely under control in the US pose a significant threat abroad. My years of travel have taught me to always check and see if I need any additional vaccines before a trip. In preparation for trips abroad, I've taken live typhoid pills and been vaccinated against yellow fever. For other trips, I've taken pills to prevent malaria. At my doctor's recommendation, I've even packed antibiotics to bring to countries where they might not be readily available. Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's website to see which vaccines and medications are recommended for your destination. Once you know what you need, your local pharmacy may be able to order the recommended vaccines for you, or your primary care physician might be able to call in a prescription. Will my credit cards work? Many Americans are used to paying for just about anything they need with the swipe of a card — or even a phone if they use Apple Pay. However, some countries are still largely cash-based societies. If that's the case where you are traveling, always come prepared with an ATM card — and make sure your bank account has enough cash. Finally, keep your budget in mind. If you don't have a credit card specifically designed for travel, remember you may be hit with expensive foreign transaction fees for every purchase. Are there any unusual laws I need to know about? Through my travels, I've come across a lot of unexpected laws. For example, some countries in the Caribbean ban civilians from wearing camouflage. In France, you're not allowed to buy or even wear counterfeit clothing, including purses. Moreover, some countries have restrictions on the type of medications you can bring in, even if they were legally prescribed in your home country. It's important to me to respect local customs and stay on the right side of the law — so I always do a quick online search to see if there are any rules I need to know about before I travel.
