On 19 of July, the British House of Commons issued a statement regarding changes to immigration and visa rules for citizens of five countries, including Dominica and Vanuatu. This decision stipulates that passport holders from these countries need to apply for a visit visa to enter the United Kingdom.
The decision also includes a transitional period for Dominica and Vanuatu citizens, includes holders with confirmed bookings to the United Kingdom (before 3 pm UK time, 19 July 2023 and arriving before 3 pm UK time, 16 August 2023) allowing them to travel to the UK without a visa.
It is expected that the decision will be a preliminary step from the United Kingdom to activate the electronic travel authorization system, as the United Kingdom is preparing to apply it to those wishing to visit it at the beginning of next year, and it is expected that Dominica and Vanuatu will be included in this system in the future.
The Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system facilitates travel to the United Kingdom by requiring individuals to fill out an online form with basic information such as passport number, and the purpose of the visit. The authorization is issued easily and quickly, allowing individuals to enter and stay in the UK with an electronic document.
All 79 countries with visa-free access to the UK will be introduced to the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) gradually starting in November 2023. It is expected that by the end of 2024, all visa-exempt countries will be part of the ETA including the United States of America, Canada, and members of the European Union.
We will keep you updated on all developments as soon as they are rolled out.