Why Thailand and UK Are Joining Australia, Brazil, Indonesia, Egypt, Germany, India, and Saudi Arabia in Replacing Visa Free Travel with ETA

As global travel evolves, many nations are moving away from visa-free travel and adopting Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) systems to enhance security, manage growing tourism, and modernize entry processes. Thailand and the United Kingdom are the latest to make this change, joining countries like Australia, Brazil, Indonesia, Egypt, Germany, India, and Saudi Arabia. These countries are replacing traditional visa-free policies with streamlined, digital pre-approval systems that allow governments to pre-screen visitors, manage border traffic, and even generate revenue through application fees. This shift reflects a broader global trend of balancing convenience with stricter control measures, ensuring safer and more efficient travel experiences. Here’s why Thailand and the UK are following this path and how it fits into the bigger picture.

Thailand’s Move Toward ETA

Thailand, known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture, has always been a favorite destination for tourists worldwide. Until now, travelers from several countries could enter Thailand visa-free, but the country is now adopting an ETA system. This change aims to modernize travel processes and improve security measures without making things cumbersome for visitors.

Thailand’s Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), effective November 6, 2024, will apply to nationals of 93 countries who were previously visa-exempt for 15-, 30-, and 60-day stays, as well as those using visa-on-arrival services. Exceptions include nationals of Laos, Cambodia, and Malaysia, who remain exempt, while holders of long-term visas, diplomatic passports, or consular-issued visas will find ETA optional.

Thailand has implemented its Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system; however, the country has not yet announced any fee for the ETA, potentially making it a cost-free option for travelers compared to other nations that charge for similar systems. This traveler-friendly approach could encourage more visitors while maintaining modernized entry processes.

The Thai government is focusing on balancing convenience with enhanced border control. The ETA system will allow travelers to register online before their trip, reducing long lines at immigration and ensuring that all documentation is in order. Interestingly, Thailand stands out by reportedly not charging a fee for its ETA, making it one of the most traveler-friendly options among countries adopting this system. For tourists, this means less hassle at the airport and a smoother overall experience.

The UK’s Post-Brexit Transition

The United Kingdom is also embracing the ETA model as part of its post-Brexit border policy overhaul. Historically, visa-free travelers, including those from European nations, could enter the UK with minimal requirements. However, from January 8, 2025, visitors from Singapore and other non-European countries will need an ETA. Europeans will follow suit starting April 2, 2025.

The UK’s Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system is being introduced in phases to enhance border security and streamline entry. Nationals from countries like Australia, Canada, Singapore, Saudi Arabia, Japan, United States, and Brazil already require an ETA for travel. From March 5, 2025, travelers from European Union nations and associated territories, including France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Sweden, and Norway, will also need an ETA for entry, valid for travel starting April 2, 2025. The ETA, costing £10, is valid for two years and covers multiple entries for short stays, including tourism, business, or study, as well as transit. This phased rollout ensures a smooth transition while maintaining efficiency and convenience for global travelers.

This shift isn’t just about tightening border controls; it’s about creating a more organized and efficient entry process. The UK’s ETA will be valid for two years, allowing multiple visits during that period. At a cost of just £10 (around $13.20), the system is affordable and aims to simplify pre-arrival procedures for tourists and business travelers alike.

The UK’s decision aligns with its broader efforts to modernize its border management systems while maintaining a welcoming stance for visitors. Although some travelers may find the change an adjustment, the convenience of a quick and fully online application process ensures minimal disruption to travel plans.

Australia: A Longtime Leader in ETA

Australia was one of the first countries in the world to introduce an ETA system, way back in 1996. As a trailblazer, the country understood the need for enhanced security and efficient management of incoming travelers long before it became a global trend. The system replaced traditional visa-free entry for many visitors, introducing a streamlined process that ensured both security and ease of travel.

Australia’s Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system has been a game-changer for years, allowing travelers from countries like Canada, China, France, Germany, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, the United Kingdom, and the United States to enjoy a streamlined, digital application process. With just a few clicks, eligible visitors can secure entry approval, eliminating the need for in-person applications or extensive paperwork. This efficient system has become a model for other nations, setting the gold standard for modern border management.

Australian authorities charge A$20 (around $13.50) for their ETA, and the system has proven highly effective for pre-screening travelers and ensuring smooth entry. The ETA allows visitors multiple short-term trips for tourism or business purposes, making it ideal for frequent travelers.

The focus isn’t just on security—Australia’s ETA is also about efficiency. By requiring travelers to apply online before departure, Australia has significantly reduced wait times at immigration checkpoints while maintaining strict border controls. This balance of convenience and vigilance has set a standard that other nations aspire to achieve.

Brazil: A Modernized Approach to Travel

Brazil, known for its vibrant culture and iconic landmarks like Christ the Redeemer and the Amazon Rainforest, has also adopted the ETA system to simplify entry for tourists. In recent years, the country has revamped its immigration processes, making it easier for travelers from eligible countries to visit.

Starting April 10, 2025, Brazil will reintroduce visa requirements for travelers from Australia, Canada, and the United States for tourism and business purposes. Visitors will need to apply for an e-Visa, which can be completed through Brazil’s online portal. This process is designed to be quick and straightforward, allowing travelers to receive their visas via email in just a few days. The move aligns with Brazil’s efforts to modernize its immigration systems while ensuring security and efficiency at its borders.

Brazil’s move to implement ETAs reflects its commitment to boosting tourism while maintaining control over its borders. The system allows travelers to complete their application online, avoiding lengthy visa processing times at embassies and making Brazil a more accessible destination for international tourists, especially those from key markets like the United States, Canada, and Europe. To apply, travelers are required to pay an e-Visa fee of US$ 80.90, which contributes to streamlining the pre-arrival approval process while ensuring the country balances accessibility with efficient border management.

Unlike some countries that primarily focus on security, Brazil’s adoption of the ETA is also about enhancing its image as a global travel hub. By offering a simple, digital authorization process, the country is encouraging more visitors to experience its natural wonders and cultural treasures.

Indonesia: A Gateway Modernized

Indonesia, home to world-famous destinations like Bali and Jakarta, has transitioned to an ETA system called the Electronic Visa on Arrival (e-VOA). This move reflects the country’s goal of balancing its thriving tourism industry with enhanced border controls. Introduced in November 2022, the e-VOA allows travelers to apply for their entry authorization online before arriving, significantly reducing wait times at immigration checkpoints.

Indonesia’s Electronic Visa on Arrival (e-VoA) system offers a modern, streamlined entry process for travelers from over 80 countries, including United States, United Kingdom, Japan, India, Germany, Canada, France, and Saudi Arabia. Designed for convenience, the e-VoA allows tourists to apply online for a stay of up to 30 days, with an option to extend. This initiative ensures a smoother arrival experience while maintaining robust border controls, catering to Indonesia’s thriving tourism sector and its globally renowned destinations like Bali and Jakarta.

Indonesia has implemented its Electronic Visa on Arrival (e-VoA) system, requiring travelers to pay a fee of 500,000 Indonesian Rupiah (approximately $35) to apply. This system allows visitors from over 80 countries to complete the application online, simplifying entry procedures and reducing wait times at immigration checkpoints. By introducing the e-VoA, Indonesia aims to maintain efficient border control while catering to its booming tourism sector, making iconic destinations like Bali and Jakarta more accessible to international travelers.

The e-VOA is available to visitors from many countries and permits a stay of up to 30 days, with the option to extend for another 30 days. This system benefits both the government and travelers—visitors save time, while authorities gain the ability to pre-screen individuals before they even board a flight. By modernizing its travel policies, Indonesia is ensuring that its tourism sector remains robust while maintaining security at its borders.

Egypt: Streamlining Tourism for a Historic Destination

Egypt, a country synonymous with ancient wonders like the Pyramids of Giza and the Nile River, introduced its ETA system to make travel easier and more secure. The Egypt e-Visa allows visitors from eligible countries to apply online for single or multiple-entry permits, depending on their travel needs.

Egypt’s e-Visa is a digital gateway for tourists from countries like United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Germany, France, Japan, and Australia. It allows visitors to apply online for single or multiple-entry visas, with a maximum stay of 30 days. By implementing the e-Visa, Egypt has made travel more accessible to its cultural landmarks like the Pyramids of Giza and Luxor while improving border efficiency and maintaining security.

Egypt’s adoption of the ETA is a strategic move to encourage tourism while ensuring border security. Travelers can stay for up to 30 days with the single-entry e-Visa or choose a multiple-entry option for longer-term travel plans. The straightforward application process has been a game-changer, making it simpler for tourists to explore Egypt’s rich history and culture.

In addition to easing the entry process, the Egyptian government uses ETAs to manage tourist data and pre-screen travelers. This ensures a safer and more organized experience for visitors and authorities alike, fostering confidence in Egypt as a destination of choice.

Germany: Preparing for ETIAS Implementation

Germany, along with the rest of the European Union, is gearing up to introduce the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS). This system, expected to launch in late 2025, is a major development in the EU’s approach to border management. Travelers from visa-exempt countries will need to obtain an ETIAS authorization before entering Germany and 29 other European nations for short stays.

Germany is preparing to introduce the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) in 2025, requiring travelers from visa-exempt countries like United States, United Kingdom, Japan, Canada, and Australia to obtain pre-travel authorization. The ETIAS system, valid across 30 European nations, ensures pre-screening for security and health compliance while simplifying entry for short-term stays. For Germany, this step not only enhances border safety but also aligns with the European Union’s broader vision for modernized and coordinated travel policies.

The European Union is set to introduce the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) by late 2025, requiring travelers from visa-exempt countries to pay a fee of €7 when submitting their application. This fee applies to travelers aged 18 to 70 and grants pre-approval for entry into 30 European countries for short stays. The ETIAS aims to enhance border security while maintaining efficient and convenient travel for millions of international visitors, further aligning with the EU’s efforts to modernize border management.

The ETIAS system is designed to:

• Strengthen Security: By pre-screening visitors, Germany can identify potential risks before travelers arrive.
• Simplify Processes: The online application takes minutes and provides approval quickly, offering a hassle-free experience for travelers.
• Collect Revenue: The system includes a small fee, contributing to the EU’s border management costs.

For Germany, ETIAS represents a balance between maintaining its welcoming reputation and ensuring that its borders remain secure in an increasingly complex travel landscape.

India: A Comprehensive e-Visa System

India has been ahead of the curve with its e-Visa system, which was introduced in 2014 and has since expanded to include travelers from over 150 countries. This digital authorization allows visitors to apply online for a visa tailored to their purpose of travel, such as tourism, business, or medical visits.

India’s e-Visa system has been a significant milestone in making the country more accessible to tourists, business travelers, and medical visitors from over 150 countries, including United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, Japan, Germany, and France. Travelers can apply online for durations ranging from 30 days to five years, depending on their purpose of visit. This initiative simplifies entry for millions of visitors each year, allowing them to explore iconic landmarks like the Taj Mahal and Jaipur without the complexities of traditional visa applications.

India offers its e-Visa system at varying costs based on the duration and time of travel. For a 30-day e-Tourist Visa, the fee is US$ 25 from July to March and US$ 10 from April to June, catering to seasonal tourism patterns. For longer stays, the one-year e-Tourist Visa costs US$ 40, while the five-year e-Tourist Visa is priced at US$ 80. This flexible pricing structure ensures accessibility for travelers with different needs, while the fully online application process simplifies entry, making India a top destination for global tourists.

Key features of India’s e-Visa include:

• Flexibility: Visitors can apply for different durations, ranging from 30 days to five years, depending on their needs.
• Convenience: The process eliminates the need for in-person visits to consulates, saving time for travelers.
• Boosting Tourism: India’s e-Visa system has made it easier for millions of tourists to explore iconic destinations like the Taj Mahal and Jaipur.

India’s decision to adopt the e-Visa system reflects its commitment to making travel simpler while maintaining control over its borders. It has proven to be a valuable tool for encouraging tourism and fostering international connections.

Saudi Arabia: Opening Its Doors to the World

Saudi Arabia’s introduction of an eVisa in 2019 marked a historic shift for a country traditionally known for its restrictive entry policies. This move was part of Vision 2030, a national strategy to diversify the economy by opening the country to international tourism.

Saudi Arabia’s e-Visa, introduced in 2019 as part of the country’s Vision 2030 initiative, has made it easier for travelers from 49 eligible countries, including United States, United Kingdom, Japan, Germany, and France, to visit. The e-Visa allows multiple entries for stays of up to 90 days within a one-year period and is tailored for tourism. The system reflects Saudi Arabia’s commitment to diversifying its economy through tourism, encouraging visitors to explore iconic sites like Al-Ula, Riyadh, and Jeddah.

Saudi Arabia charges SAR 535 (approximately $142) for its tourist eVisa, which allows visitors multiple entries for up to 90 days within a one-year period. This fee supports the country’s Vision 2030 initiative to diversify its economy by boosting international tourism. The eVisa system streamlines the entry process, making iconic destinations like Al-Ula, Riyadh, and Jeddah more accessible while ensuring effective border management.

The eVisa system allows travelers from over 49 eligible countries to apply online for entry. Visitors can stay for up to 90 days within a one-year period. The process is quick, fully digital, and far less restrictive than the previous visa policies.

Saudi Arabia uses its eVisa to:

• Promote Tourism: Iconic destinations like Al-Ula, Riyadh, and Jeddah are now easily accessible to tourists.
• Streamline Entry: By pre-screening travelers online, Saudi Arabia has made border crossings more efficient.
• Enhance Security: The eVisa allows authorities to check traveler information in advance, ensuring safer and better-managed borders.

The adoption of the eVisa is not just about attracting visitors—it’s also a statement that Saudi Arabia is ready to position itself as a global travel destination.

The Broader Picture: Why Countries Are Adopting ETA

• Enhanced Security: ETAs allow countries to pre-screen travelers for health issues, criminal records, and travel history, ensuring only eligible visitors are granted entry. This strengthens border security and reduces risks associated with unauthorized travel.
• Streamlined Immigration: By digitizing the travel authorization process, ETAs simplify entry procedures at borders, minimizing delays and improving the overall traveler experience.
• Data Management: ETAs make it easier for governments to manage immigration data, track visitor numbers, and monitor compliance with entry regulations.
• Revenue Generation: ETAs often include fees that provide governments with additional revenue streams:
  • Thailand: No fee announced yet.
  • Brazil: Charges US$ 80.90 for its e-Visa.
  • Indonesia: Requires a fee of 500,000 Indonesian Rupiah (approximately $35).
  • European Union (ETIAS): Charges €7 for travelers aged 18 to 70.
• India:
  • 30-day e-Tourist Visa: US$ 25 (July to March), US$ 10 (April to June).
  • One-year e-Tourist Visa: US$ 40.
  • Five-year e-Tourist Visa: US$ 80.
• Saudi Arabia: Charges SAR 535 (approximately $142) for its tourist eVisa.
• Australia: Charges A$20 (around $13.50).
• United Kingdom: Charges £10 (around $13.20).
• New Zealand: Charges NZ$17 (around $10.60) and includes a tourism levy of NZ$35, which is increasing to NZ$100 from October.
• Adapting to Rising Tourism: With global travel numbers increasing, ETAs help countries manage high volumes of visitors efficiently without compromising security.
• Maintaining Public Safety: Pre-screening travelers ensures potential threats are identified before arrival, protecting citizens and visitors alike.
• Flexibility for Travelers: The digital, pre-arrival process offers convenience, allowing travelers to apply for authorization online from the comfort of their homes. This ensures smoother travel planning and reduces border entry complications.

What’s Next?

Thailand and the UK aren’t alone in this transition. Other nations are also preparing to implement ETA systems. Japan is reportedly working on its own version, while the European Union is gearing up to launch the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) by late 2025. ETIAS will apply to travelers from visa-exempt countries, including United States, Canada, Australia, Singapore, Brazil, and Japan, visiting 30 European nations such as France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and Sweden. This further signals the global shift toward pre-arrival travel authorizations.

A New Chapter in Global Travel

The transition to Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) systems marks a significant evolution in global travel, balancing security, efficiency, and convenience. Thailand and the UK, alongside nations like Australia, Brazil, Indonesia, Egypt, Germany, India, and Saudi Arabia, are adopting ETAs to modernize their immigration processes and better manage the increasing volume of international travelers.

For travelers, these systems may feel like an extra step compared to traditional visa-free entry, but they offer clear advantages—streamlined pre-approval, shorter wait times at borders, and enhanced safety. Meanwhile, for countries, ETAs provide greater control over who enters their borders while generating additional revenue through application fees.

As more countries, including Japan and the European Union, prepare to implement similar systems, it’s clear that ETAs are shaping the future of international travel. Whether visiting the cultural landmarks of the UK, the beaches of Thailand, or exploring destinations worldwide, travelers can expect a smoother, more secure journey in this new era of digital border management.

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