From 8 January 2025, Malaysians travelling or transiting in the United Kingdom will need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), which is a measure set to facilitate entry for short-term visitors. So, what should you know about it?
For your information, the British High Commission in Kuala Lumpur said the ETA is a digital authorization for travel for visitors who do not currently require a visa for a short stay, or who do not have UK immigration status before starting travel. Through an ETA application which costs £10 (~RM56.50), it will allow travel to the UK for stays of up to six months at a time for two years or until the holder's passport expires - whichever is earlier.
In addition, the high commission said the introduction of ETA to the rest of the world, including Malaysia, is in line with the approach taken by many other countries (such as the US and Australia) to strengthen border security. It is clear that ETA is not a UK visa and Malaysians who will be staying in the UK for more than six months (for example to study or work) are still required to apply for the relevant visa, whereas individuals with a valid UK visa do not need an ETA.
Moreover, Malaysian travellers can apply in advance from 27 November 2024 through the ETA UK application or the official GOV.UK portal. All applications are managed by UK Visas & Immigration. The British High Commission says the application process is quick and easy, applicants usually get a decision within three working days or faster if using the ETA UK application.
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