UK Revokes Visa-Free Access for Nationals of Jordan

The United Kingdom (UK) has ended its visa-free travel scheme for Jordanian visitors due to a rise in asylum claims and border rule violations.

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper announced that Jordanian nationals can no longer access the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, which allows multiple UK entries over two years for £10.

The decision follows a sharp increase in asylum claims and refusals at the border, with Jordanian asylum claims rising from 17 in late 2023 to 261 by mid-2024. Some travellers also used the ETA to transit to Ireland and claim asylum there.

Launched in October 2023 for Qatar, the ETA program was expanded due to high numbers of returning tourists.

Since February 2024, Jordanians have been able to travel to the UK for visits using the ETA system.

However, Jordan has now been excluded, while the system will be expanded to other nationalities in November.

Cooper explained that the move aims to address migration and border security concerns, stressing that the UK's relationship with Jordan remains strong. A four-week transition period is in place for travellers already holding ETAs, but any bookings made after October 8 will require a visa.

The UK government intends to expand ETA to all non-European nationals in November, with European citizens required to apply in 2025. The government argues that the scheme strengthens border security by providing better insights into travellers and preventing misuse.

Meanwhile, Heathrow Airport criticised the ETA for causing a 90,000-drop in transit passenger numbers, especially from Qatar, and called for a review of the system.

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