UK extends travel authorisation fee to Australian citizens

London is calling but ask nicely and bring cash because the UK has taken a leaf out of Australia’s book and adopted a new travel scheme.

Australians will need to get permission to enter the UK as of January.

The move is an extension of a scheme that requires citizens of countries that do not require a UK visa to get an electronic travel authorisation form.

By April 2025, all visitors who do not need a visa – except British and Irish citizens – will need an electronic travel authorisation to enter the UK.

Migration and Citizenship Minister Seema Malhotra said the move would enhance security and modernise immigration in line with the US and Australia.

The UK government says the change is to negate abuse of the immigration system. Picture: iStock

Australia requires British passport holders to get an electronic travel authorisation; the authorisation itself is free but there is a $20 fee to use the app to get it.

The authorisation ticket is attached digitally to the passport and obtained via an app.

A UK authorisation costs £10 ($19.66 as of Wednesday) and permits journeys to the UK for stays of up to six months at a time over two years or until the holder’s passport expires – whichever is sooner.

UK Migration Minister Seema Malhotra says the change brings the UK in line with the US and Australia. Picture: UK government

“Digitisation enables a smooth experience for the millions of people who pass through the border every year, including the visitors we warmly welcome to the UK who are predicted to contribute over £32bn to our tourism economy this year,” Ms Malhotra said.

The change means security checks are carried out before people begin their journey to the UK, helping to prevent abuse of the immigration system, the minister says.

Australia already requires UK citizens to get an authorisation. Picture: NewsWire / Gary Ramage

Europeans do not yet need an authorisation to get into the UK.

From November 27, all non-Europeans (whose citizenship means they do not need a visa) can apply for an electronic authorisation pass. That cohort will need the pass to enter the UK from January 8.

The passes then become mandatory for Europeans from April 2.

The minister says the government is working with airlines, maritime carriers and rail companies to make sure the change is smooth.