The UK’s new ETA system will soon come into effect, changing the travel experience for many visitors. Citizens of El Salvador will not be affected by the new programme as they were removed from the visa-waiver country list in May 2022. Thus, they will require a visa to enter the UK for a variety of purposes including tourism, medical treatment, business and transit.
What is the UK ETA?
Although the ETA, which stands for Electronic Travel Authorisation, is new to the UK, travellers may already have experience with similar programmes. The scheme is based on existing systems that are in place in countries like the United States and Canada. It is part of the British government’s initiative to digitalise the borders. When the ETA system is complete, it will give the government more insight into the visitors coming to the country. It will also create a stronger security process, making it easier to identify and flag potential risks to the UK.
The ETA is not a visa and has a much simpler, easier application process than a visa would. Instead, it is being introduced to replace the current system of visa waivers. It is a digital travel permit.
How does the ETA affect Salvadoran travellers?
El Salvador was on the list of eligible countries that had a visa waiver arrangement with the United Kingdom. However, this changed on May 11, 2022 due to an increase in asylum claims. Even with the UK ETA roll-out, Salvadoran citizens will not be affected and will require a visa for a trip to the UK. El Salvador may be added back to the list of visa-waiver countries for the UK, but as of late 2024, this does not appear imminent.
Some Salvadoran citizens go to the UK with the intention of staying there for a long period, living there or working in the country. In these situations, they will still need a visa. Travellers who need a visa will have to go through a separate visa application process, which is unrelated to the ETA.
Salvadoran travellers who do not plan to work in the UK, and are spending less than six months in the country, will be able to do so with a UK Standard Visitor Visa. Many travellers come to the UK to enjoy a holiday, but there are other reasons to travel. These reasons include the following:
• Tourism
• Business trips
• Short-term courses or study programmes
• Visiting friends and family
• Medical procedures
El Salvadoran citizens that want to come to the UK to seek asylum can pursue a separate application process should they wish.
The Standard Visitor Visa Application Process
Step 1: Check Visa Requirements
El Salvadoran citizens need a visa to visit the UK for tourism.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
You will need the following documents:
- A valid passport or travel document.
- A completed visa application form.
- Evidence of financial means to support yourself during your trip (e.g., bank statements, pay slips).
- Details of your accommodation and travel plans in the UK.
- Proof of ties to El Salvador, such as a letter from your employer, proof of property ownership, or family ties.
- A recent passport-sized colour photograph.
Step 3: Apply Online
- Visit the UK government visa application website.
- Complete the online visa application form.
- Pay the visa application fee.
Step 4: Book an Appointment
- Once your application is submitted, book an appointment at the nearest visa application centre.
- Choose a convenient location and time for your appointment.
Step 5: Attend the Appointment
- Bring your documents and passport to the visa application centre.
- You will need to provide your biometric information (fingerprints and a photograph).
Step 6: Wait for a Decision
- The processing time can vary, but you can check the typical processing times on the UK government website.
- You will be notified once a decision has been made regarding your visa application.
Additional Tips
- Apply well in advance of your planned travel dates.
- Ensure that all the information you provide is accurate and complete.
- Check specific requirements and guidelines for El Salvadoran citizens on the UK government website.