On July 19th 2023, Vanuatu citizens were removed from the visa-waiver country list for the UK due to concerns regarding the Citizenship by Investment (CBI) schemes offered by the country. Thus, they will be ineligible for the UK ETA when the system fully rolls out.
The UK ETA is a travel permit applies to eligible nationals that do not require a visa to visit the UK. It is to be applied for by eligible citizens before they travel to the UK and will be mandatory for entry.
What is the UK ETA?
The UK will launch its new ETA system fully in 2024. An ETA, which stands for Electronic Travel Authorisation, is a digital permission-to-travel scheme that is mandatory for most non-visa nationals. The system works similarly to other national entry permit schemes and visa-waiver schemes, like the USA’s ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) and Australia’s Electronic Travel Authority (ETA).
The UK’s ETA system has been developed as part of a broader travel policy outlined in 2022’s Nationality and Borders Bill. This bill aims to strengthen the UK’s border security, control migration numbers and digitise the entry process. Visitors from Vanuatu are no longer eligible to travel to the UK visa-free and thus are ineligible for the UK ETA. Vanuatu citizens can still apply for a UK Standard Visitor Visa should they wish to visit for a number of purposes, including tourism, medical, transit and some business activities.
Applying for a Standard Visitor Visa
Step 1: Confirm Visa Requirements
As a citizen of Vanuatu, you will need a visa to visit the UK for tourism.
Step 2: Gather Necessary Documents
Make sure you have the following documents ready:
- A valid passport or travel document.
- A completed visa application form.
- Proof of financial support during your stay (e.g., bank statements, pay slips).
- Details of your accommodation and travel plans in the UK.
- Evidence of your ties to Vanuatu, such as employment letters, property ownership, or family connections.
- A recent passport-sized colour photograph.
Step 3: Apply Online
- Go to the UK government visa application website.
- Complete the online application form with accurate details.
- Pay the visa application fee online using a credit or debit card.
Step 4: Book an Appointment
- Once your application is submitted, schedule an appointment at the nearest visa application centre.
- Choose a date and location that works best for you.
Step 5: Attend the Visa Appointment
- Bring your passport, documents, and application confirmation to the visa application centre.
- You will be required to provide your biometric information (fingerprints and a photograph).
Step 6: Wait for the Visa Decision
- Processing times may vary, so check the expected processing times on the UK government website.
- You will receive a notification once a decision has been made on your visa application.
Additional Tips
- Apply well in advance of your travel dates to avoid any delays.
- Ensure all information provided in the application is accurate and complete.
- Review any specific requirements for Vanuatu citizens on the UK government website to ensure your application is fully compliant.
Vanuatu in the United Kingdom
Despite Vanuatu’s small population of 315,700, the UK remains an attractive destination with many cultural attractions that appeal to Vanuatu citizens, including the British Museum’s Vanuatu collection. There are no direct flights between Vanuatu and the UK. However, common layover routes are taken via Australia and New Zealand.