Trans.iNFO has confirmed through official responses from both the UK Home Office and the European Commission’s Home Affairs department that lorry drivers will not be exempt from these new requirements.
Although the precise launch date for ETIAS is still unconfirmed, the European Commission has stated that it will be introduced sometime in mid-2025. The ETIAS will be required for visa-exempt nationals entering any of 30 European countries for short stays of up to 90 days within any 180 days. The authorisation will cost €7, be linked to the traveller’s passport, and remain valid for three years or until the passport expires.
Meanwhile, the UK’s ETA will come into effect for EU nationals starting in April 2025. The ETA, priced at £10, will permit multiple visits to the UK within two years or until the traveller’s passport expires. The application process will include providing passport details, and contact information, and answering security questions, to strengthen border security.
Both processes are designed to be quick and convenient, with digital links to the traveller’s passport. For ETIAS (UK nationals entering the EU), drivers can apply using either the official ETIAS website or a mobile app. For ETA (EU nationals entering the UK), applicants can apply via the “UK ETA” mobile app, available on both Google Play and the Apple App Store, or through the UK government website if they don’t have access to a smartphone.