This Wednesday, April 2nd, the Paris-North train station is bustling with a particular excitement. Travelers are hurrying, all aware of the recent changes: an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is now required to travel to England. Amid nervous laughter and exchanged advice, the crowd demonstrates a well-orchestrated preparation in the face of these new fees, all while holding on to the hope that these formalities won’t mar their long-awaited trip. Here, every detail counts, and passengers are ensuring they are fully ready before heading off to the British capital.
On April 2, 2025, travelers heading to England had to face a new challenge: obtaining an electronic travel authorization, known as ETA. This new procedure was greeted quite well by Eurostar passengers, who proved to be foresighted, well-informed, and prepared. No anxiety was visible in the departure hall of Paris-North station, but instead, there were smiles and a few travel anecdotes. Let’s take a closer look at how passengers are reacting to this newly instituted obligation.
A new era for travel to the United Kingdom #
As of this April 2nd, the ETA has become mandatory for citizens of the European Union as well as for around ten other nations worldwide. This electronic pass is in addition to the passport and is part of new rules aimed at ensuring better regulation of travel. In the hall of Paris-North station, passengers seemed already familiar with this formality, without any signs reminding them of this new obligation.
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Foresighted travelers
Among the flow of travelers, some encountered misadventures. María, for instance, almost missed her train to London after forgetting her passport, despite having completed her ETA online earlier. “I had everything planned!” she exclaimed, hand in her pocket searching for her precious document. Fortunately, she was able to seek a solution at the Eurostar counter, showing that even the most prepared can have a moment of forgetfulness.
A simplified formality
On the other hand, others, like Isabelle and Camille, arrived well-prepared and excited to explore London. They found the process of obtaining their ETA to be as easy as pie thanks to the dedicated app. “It was quick, we received confirmation in a minute!” they shared. At a cost of 12 euros, which will increase to 19 euros starting April 9th, the document is valid for two years. Fees considered reasonable given the experience that awaits them.
Extra fee or necessity? #
While Isabelle and Camille were delighted about their trip, they couldn’t help but ask a legitimate question: “Where is all this money going?” Indeed, the feeling that taxes, like this one, are piling up is palpable. Similar concerns are expressed in other cities and the impact is debated in articles about the new tourist taxes in Venice or regarding tourist budgets in France.
Exemptions for some travelers
Travelers like Carole, who hold dual nationality, did not have to deal with this new formality as her British passport exempts her from the ETA. However, her eight-year-old son had to go through the process. Technology played a role in his application, and he faced some difficulties with the app – proof that even systems designed to help can sometimes lead to their share of troubles.
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Eurostar’s flexibility measures #
The Eurostar train company reacted to the inconveniences that this formality may cause. “Any traveler without an approved ETA will have the option to postpone their journey by one month,” stated an employee of the company. A reassuring response for the disoriented, like María, who had to rush home to retrieve her passport.
A reassuring perspective
In the face of uncertainties brought about by these regulatory changes, passengers are encouraged to be well-prepared and stay informed. Beyond the bureaucracy, rich and discovery-filled travels await future explorers of the British kingdom. Although questions about new taxes and regulations arise, the promise of memorable experiences remains the main attraction. Who knows, perhaps the dreams of London will resurface despite all these hassles!
