In a recent development, the UK has clarified its rules regarding the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for Irish residents. The Immigration Rules Appendix Electronic Travel Authorization, specifically ETA 1.3, now exempts Irish residents from obtaining an ETA when traveling to the UK from elsewhere in the Common Travel Area (CTA).
According to the guidelines, an individual is considered lawfully resident in Ireland if they meet the residency and entitlement criteria set forth by Irish legislation or rules at the time of their ETA application. However, it’s important to note that this exemption doesn’t apply if an individual requires the consent of an Irish Minister to leave Ireland.
For those subject to the ETA requirement who arrive in the UK from the CTA without an ETA but claim exemption based on their lawful residence in Ireland, they may be asked to provide evidence of their residency.
It’s crucial to emphasize that this exemption solely applies to travel within the CTA. Non-visa nationals lawfully residing in Ireland must still obtain an ETA for travel to the UK from outside the CTA.
For further details and specific requirements, please refer to the Common Travel Area guidance and the Immigration Act 1971. This update aims to streamline travel for Irish residents within the CTA while ensuring that necessary immigration rules are adhered to.