As businesses continue to grow and expand across borders, corporate travel remains a key part of operations. If your company has employees who regularly travel to the United Kingdom, it’s essential to understand the UK’s new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system. Ensuring compliance with this requirement will help avoid disruptions and ensure seamless business travel.
The UK has introduced the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system to streamline entry requirements for certain travellers. The ETA is a digital travel permission that allows eligible travellers to visit the UK for short stays of up to six months.
Eligible Europeans can apply from 5th March 2025 and will need an ETA to travel from 2nd April 2025.
If you are a non-Irish citizen living in Ireland and traveling from Ireland, Guernsey, Jersey, or the Isle of Man, you are exempt if you provide proof of residency in Ireland (e.g., Driving Licence, Medical Card, or Irish Residency Permit)
The ETA system is part of a wider effort by the UK government to modernise immigration processes and enforce border security. It aligns with similar systems already in place in countries like the US and Australia. The goal is to improve efficiency while preventing individuals who present a security threat from travelling to the UK.
An ETA costs £10, and people can apply using the UK ETA app. Approval can take up to 3 days. A UK ETA is valid for 2 years, allowing multiple entries to the UK during this period
Did you know, when you work with Travel Counsellors for Business, we’ll go the extra mile to ensure all travellers have the necessary documents that they need to travel – giving you one less thing to worry about. Get in touch to find out how we can put care and the personal touch at the heart of your business travel programme.
When we think about roles that influence a company’s culture and employee wellbeing strategy, our minds often jump to HR managers or senior leadership. However, there’s a crucial group of professionals who play a significant, albeit often understated, role—Executive Assistants (EAs) and Personal Assistants (PAs).
Offshore industries, particularly in oil, gas, and renewable energy sectors, face unique challenges when it comes to managing travel. Workers are often remote and offshore, requiring precise logistical coordination and exceptional care to ensure their wellbeing.
As an executive assistant, personal assistant, or corporate travel booker, ensuring the welfare of travelling employees is an ethical and operational imperative. It’s about protecting the wellbeing, safety, and productivity of your team, while fostering a culture that values them as one of your greatest assets.