As of today (November 27th) Australian citizens can now register for a UK ETA, a new visa waiver fee for those entering or transiting through the UK. The ETA will be required by all non-British passport holders who enter the UK without a visa. Aussies will need an ETA to enter the UK by January 8th, 2025.
Along with the ETA, Aussies will also need to apply for the ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) visa waiver to enter Europe in early 2025.
Will travel insurance cover me if I don’t have the right visa?
As both the ETA and ETIAS become a requirement from early next year, travellers may be wondering whether they will be covered by travel insurance should they neglect to obtain the correct visa or travel permit.
Natalie Ball, managing director for Comparetravelinsurance.com.au, explains,
“By January 8th, 2025, travellers to or through the UK will need an ETA. ETIAS, on the other hand, is still waiting for its official debut but will also launch in 2025. While there may be a grace period, Aussies without the necessary travel permits risk being denied boarding or entry.”
And here’s the kicker, Ball warns not to expect your travel insurance to bail you out if you botch your visa preparation.
“Airlines typically won’t refund or credit you if you neglected to get the right travel documents,” Ball cautions. “Make sure your visas are sorted and double-check your passport’s validity before packing your bags!”
Ball says that when it comes to travel insurance, cover usually applies to unforeseen and unpredictable scenarios, not those which you could have reasonably avoided.
“Travel insurance exists to cover you for unforeseen issues, for instance, if you miss your flight due to bad weather for instance, or you are ill and unable to travel. However, if you fail to secure an ETA, or any required paperwork or documentation for your trip, you would be likely not be covered.”
When should I apply for an ETA?
Australians intending to travel to the UK from January 8th can apply for an ETA once applications open on November 27. The ETA will be approved within 72 hours of application; however, travellers are advised to apply well before their intended date of departure.
What if I do not obtain an ETA in time for my trip?
While a grace period will apply while the ETA is first being implemented, eventually it will be a firm requirement for those who enter the UK.
“Travellers are obligated to ensure they are organised ahead of their travels and ensure they have obtained the required visa,” notes Ball. If you have not obtained an ETA in time for your trip, it will be at your airline’s discretion as to whether or not you would be able to board your flight.”
Similarly, Ball notes that travel insurance is unlikely to cover you if you leave your ETA application too late.
“Travellers should note that that insurers generally exclude cover for errors or omissions in their booking arrangements or failure to obtain the relevant visa, passport or travel documents. While you may submit a claim for consideration, be aware that your claim could be denied.”
Avoid a visa fiasco
Ball advises travellers to expect some level of disruption as the ETA rollout begins for Australians.
“In the initial stages of there may be some hiccups as the scheme takes effect. Ensuring you have allowed time for your ETA application and have applied for one for all travellers in your party, including children, will ensure a smooth transition.”
Ball says that travellers should do their research and ensure they have the sufficient visa and valid visa, even when transiting.
“Due to evolving travel requirements, you’ll need to double check the type of visa or travel permit you need for your next trip. Be aware that certain documents and waivers may be required even when transiting. As well, make sure you’re aware of any relevant exclusions in your insurance fine print- this could save you a headache when you’re getting ready to claim.”
Moral of the story? Don’t let a missing visa derail your travel dreams – plan ahead.
