The UK government has announced a series of changes to its immigration rules aimed at digitising and strengthening border security. The changes, which include the introduction of an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), will take effect in phases, the Maldives Foreign Ministry said on Thursday.
Starting from 27 November 2024, Maldivians, along with citizens of 48 other countries, will be eligible to apply for an ETA to travel to the UK. By 8 January 2025, entry into the UK will be limited to those who have obtained the authorisation, according to the ministry’s statement.
The ETA, which costs £10, will be valid for two years and allows for multiple trips to the UK, each lasting up to six months. Travellers will need to reapply if their passport expires before the ETA’s two-year validity period ends.
Further changes set to take effect on 2 April 2025 will require citizens of all countries, except the UK and Ireland, to apply for an ETA before entering the UK.
Under the current rules, Maldivians can receive a visa on arrival in the UK without the need for further pre-authorisation. The Foreign Ministry’s statement highlighted that the new rules will change this, making an ETA a mandatory requirement for all travellers.
The UK government said the new measures are part of its broader efforts to prevent abuse of the immigration system and enhance border security.
