The United Kingdom has officially launched its new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, which now requires travelers from countries exempt from visa requirements to obtain pre-approval before traveling. The ETA system, similar to the United States' ESTA, applies to citizens from over 50 countries and territories, including Argentina, Brazil, Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, and nations in the Caribbean.

Travelers must complete the ETA process even if they are only transiting through the UK. The system has been open for applications since November of last year, with mandatory participation extending to all travelers, including children and infants.

Under the newly implemented Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, travelers from eligible countries must pay a fee of £10 (approximately 430 THB). The authorization allows stays of up to six months per visit within a two-year period.

The system was first piloted in 2023 with Qatar and expanded to five neighboring Gulf countries in 2024. This year, the list was further extended to include travelers from around 50 additional countries.

However, the new system does not impact countries like Thailand, where visitors are still required to apply for a visa to enter the United Kingdom through the traditional process.