New rules for Irish people traveling to UK

Muhammad Sakhawat Hossain (Sakhawat Liton)

The European Union recently introduced a new rule for traveling from one country to another, known as Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). Which includes Britain, which left the European Union through Brexit. However, this new travel rule will not have much impact on Ireland. Being a common travel area in Britain, Irish citizens will be exempted from this rule.

Under the new rule, European citizens will have to get an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to travel to the UK from April this year. However, although this rule is in place for other countries, only Irish citizens eligible to travel to the UK will not have to take an ETA.

However, the government Authorities have to be advised any Irish citizen over the age of 16 to carry an original copy of any of the following documents with them when travelling to the UK, in addition to their passport. These include:

* Irish driving License or learner's permit

* Medical or GP visit card

* European Resident permit

* Irish Resident permit

* Permanent residence certificate

* National age card and

* Diplomatic ID card

Irish citizens may be required to present any of the above documents at the airport immigration check during their journey. However, Irish citizens and residents other than those from other European Union countries must obtain an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) to travel to the UK.

Non-Irish citizens who are currently residents of Ireland, especially EU and US citizens, do not require a visa to travel to the UK, nor do they need an ETA. However, the Irish Immigration Authority has stated that one of the above proof of residence documents must be carried.

Although there are no security checks at the border crossing of Northern Ireland, it is still advisable to go to Northern Ireland with the necessary documents to avoid any hassle during travel.

Those who need an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) before traveling can apply for it through the UK Border Agency app and get approval.