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ENG | Jan 11, 2025

Jamaica exempt from UK’s new Electronic Travel Authorization requirement

ABIGAIL BARRETT

ABIGAIL BARRETT / Our Today

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Jamaica is exempt from the UK’s ETA requirement. (Photo: contributed)

The British High Commission in Jamaica wishes to clarify recent media reports and public discourse regarding the United Kingdom’s (UK) introduction of the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) requirement for travellers from several countries, including some Caribbean nations.

The UK government has confirmed that Jamaican nationals are not affected by this new policy and will continue to require a visa for entry into the UK.

The new ETA rule, which came into effect on January 8, 2025, applies exclusively to nationals of countries that do not currently require a visa to enter the UK.

British High Commissioner to Jamaica, Judith Slate. (Photo: gov.uk/government)

British High Commissioner to Jamaica, Judith Slater, stated: “The introduction of the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is an important step in enhancing the UK’s border security and managing travel more efficiently. However, it is important to note that the new ETA policy applies only to nationals of visa-exempt countries. Jamaicans will continue to require a visa for travel to the UK. We encourage all Jamaican nationals to refer to the official UK government website at www.gov.uk for full details on visa application procedures.”

The British High Commission in Jamaica remains committed to fostering open communication and providing timely, accurate information regarding UK immigration policies.

For more information, please visit the official UK government website or contact the British High Commission in Jamaica.

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