New travel rules – Cost of entry into UK

Moving to the UK will soon become more complicated and expensive. From next year, European travelers will have to pay a fee to enter the country.
– We Swedes love London, it's a big destination, so it represents a big change in that respect, says travel expert Lottie Knudsen.

If you want to take a spontaneous weekend trip to London you don't have to think too much about it. A plane ticket and his passport are enough. But that will soon change.

European travelers arriving in the UK without a visa will soon have to pay an entry fee. The new rules will come into effect in the spring of 2025 CNN. According to Lottie Knudsen, this is something that has received very little attention.

– It means cost and more hassle for passengers. I think it will be received with some surprise as so little has been reported. This will require major information efforts, says the travel expert.

Entry permit required

The UK has announced plans to expand its ETA system. An electronic travel authorization system initially used for travelers from Qatar.

– British Home Secretary Yvette Cooper says it will be the first time we will have detailed knowledge of people traveling to Great Britain, CNN reported.

That's all it costs

It's not about a big expense. Getting an entry permit costs 10 pounds, which equates to 135 kroner.

The ETA system involves a lot of administrative effort on the part of the passenger. Through an app, travelers must apply for a permit by uploading a photo of their passport and providing information about themselves and their trip. Most will be notified within three working days, according to the British government's website.

– I think it's more of a fear of time consumption and hassle than a concern of cost. However, I don't think it will be too complicated. But you have to sit down and fill out the forms before the trip, says Lottie Knutson.

“The Big Change”

London has long topped the list of most popular weekend getaway destinations among Swedes. So, Knutson says, the new entry rules could be seen as a big change.

– We Swedes love London. It's a big goal so it's a big change in that sense. This may prevent arbitrary bookings in the future.