PETALING JAYA: According to a spokesman from the British High Commission, Malaysians travelling to the United Kingdom currently do not need the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). The spokesman mentioned that the ETA implementation is being phased in, starting with Qatar in November of this year and followed by other Gulf countries in February of next year. The UK Visas & Immigration (UKVI) at the UK Home Office, which is responsible for UK visas, will announce the rollout date for the rest of the world in due course. Until then, travellers from Malaysia do not require an ETA to travel to the UK.
The British High Commission explained that the ETA is not a visa but is electronically linked to the traveler’s passport and is valid for multiple visits over a two-year period. The Commission also noted that similar border security schemes have already been introduced by the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Presently, Malaysians can enter the United Kingdom for up to six months for tourism purposes without a visa.
The cost for an ETA per applicant is £10 (RM58.50).
According to the UK government website, the ETA will be required for individuals visiting the United Kingdom for up to six months for tourism, visiting family and friends, business or study, or for up to three months for temporary work under the Creative Worker visa concession. Additionally, individuals transiting through the United Kingdom who are not going through UK border control will also need an ETA.
The introduction of the ETA for the United Kingdom follows the requirement for visitors to EU countries to obtain an online document known as ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) before entering any EU or Schengen member countries.
Credit: The Star : News Feed
