Maldivian Travellers to Need ETA for UK Entry from Next Year
Maldivian travellers will need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to enter the United Kingdom starting next year, as the UK government overhauls its entry requirements for visitors.
The United Kingdom has announced a major update to its border and immigration system, introducing mandatory Electronic Travel Authorisations (ETA) for visitors from 49 non-European countries and territories, including the Maldives. This initiative aims to enhance security and streamline the travel experience as part of the UK’s broader digital border programme.
advertisement
From 8 January 2025, Maldivian citizens planning to visit the UK must obtain an approved ETA before their journey. Maldivian nationals can start applying for an ETA from 27 November 2024. An ETA costs £10 and is valid for multiple entries into the UK over a two-year period or until the holder’s passport expires, whichever is sooner. Each visit can last up to six months.
An Electronic Travel Authorisation is a digital permission linked to a traveller’s passport, facilitating security checks prior to departure and helping to prevent misuse of the immigration system. Applicants can apply via the UK ETA app or the official UK government website, GOV.UK.
The application will require personal details, passport information, and responses to several security questions. The UK government aims to process most ETA applications swiftly, and travellers are encouraged to apply well in advance of their departure.
Maldivian visitors should ensure they have an ETA before travelling to the UK from January 2025 onwards. Until 8 January 2025, Maldivian nationals may continue to travel under current arrangements without an ETA. British and Irish citizens are exempt from the ETA requirement.
Maldivian citizens planning a visit to the UK are advised to review the new ETA requirements and apply in advance starting November 2024. For further details and updates, travellers can visit GOV.UK or contact the British High Commission in Malé.
