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On November 19, 2024, the Spanish government repealed the joint instruction issued on March 15, 2019, which permitted Venezuelan citizens to use expired passports for immigration procedures in the country. This measure, originally introduced as an exceptional solution, is no longer in effect due to the normalization of passport renewals by Venezuelan consulates.

A Context Marked by the Venezuelan Crisis
In 2019, Venezuela’s severe political, economic, and social crisis created numerous challenges for Venezuelan citizens both within and outside their country. Among these challenges was the inability to renew passports due to administrative collapse in Venezuelan consulates. Faced with this situation, Spain adopted the extraordinary measure of allowing expired passports to serve as valid documents for Venezuelans to regularize their immigration status within Spanish territory.

The regulation, outlined in a joint instruction dated March 15, 2019, provided relief to thousands of Venezuelan citizens seeking to formalize their stay in Spain despite lacking a valid passport. Over the years, this measure enabled many to obtain residence and work permits, secure access to healthcare, and carry out other essential procedures for integration into the country.

End of the Exceptional Measure
With the decision made on November 19, 2024, this instruction has been repealed. According to official sources, the decision is based on the fact that Venezuelan authorities have now normalized the process of passport renewals at their consulates. As a result, Venezuelan citizens wishing to initiate immigration procedures in Spain will be required to present a valid passport.

It is important to highlight that this repeal applies only to procedures initiated after the date of its implementation. Ongoing procedures that were initiated beforehand will continue to be governed by the previous regulation and will not be affected by this change.

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The National Immigration Council (CNIG) of Brazil’s Ministry of Justice and Public Security has approved Resolution CNIG/MJSP No. 45, a measure that allows the granting of temporary visas and residence permits to immigrants known as “digital nomads.” This resolution targets foreign professionals who work remotely for employers outside Brazil, leveraging the flexibility of information and communication technologies.

What is a “Digital Nomad”?
According to the new regulations, a “digital nomad” is defined as an immigrant who, using digital technologies, can perform their job remotely while physically residing in Brazil but working for a foreign company. These workers do not maintain ties with local employers, and their employment depends exclusively on their internet connection.

The regulations clarify that immigrants working for Brazilian companies or those with any form of local employment relationship, as well as those whose residence has been requested under other previously established authorizations, will not be considered under this category.

How to Apply for a Temporary Visa
For those wishing to be recognized as digital nomads in Brazil, the application process begins with obtaining a temporary visa. Applicants must submit a series of documents to Brazilian consular authorities.

The initial residence period granted under this visa will be up to one year, allowing immigrants to enjoy their stay in Brazil while performing remote work.

Additional Requirements for Residence Authorization in Brazil
For individuals already in Brazil who wish to regularize their status as “digital nomads,” they may apply for a residence permit through the Ministry of Justice and Public Security.

Renewal of Residence
The residence permit under this regulation can be renewed for an additional period of up to one year, provided the immigrant continues to meet the established requirements. This includes submitting documents proving their status as a “digital nomad” and demonstrating that their means of subsistence remain sufficient.

Potential Consequences of Omissions or Falsifications
It is important to note that any omission of relevant information or falsification of documents during the process may result in the cancellation of the visa and revocation of the residence permit. Authorities will initiate a cancellation process under Decree No. 9,199 of 2017, without prejudice to applicable civil and criminal liability measures.

Impact of the Measure and Entry into Force
Resolution CNIG/MJSP No. 45 takes effect upon its publication and represents a significant step for Brazil in attracting foreign professionals who, as digital nomads, wish to take advantage of the country’s infrastructure to advance their careers while enjoying Brazil’s quality of life.

The regulation reinforces Brazil’s position as an attractive destination for international remote workers, who are increasingly seeking countries that provide a suitable environment for flexible work and new professional opportunities in a globalized, digitized context.

Through this program, Brazil not only facilitates the entry of these workers but also promotes the country’s digital economy and innovation, generating a positive impact on sectors related to technology, tourism, and consumer markets.

Such initiatives are becoming more common as countries adapt to the new realities of remote work, incentivizing the arrival of global talent to contribute to their economies in innovative and modern ways.

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On October 9, the Official State Gazette (BOE) published the bilateral agreement between the Kingdom of Spain and the Republic of Honduras regarding the reciprocal recognition and exchange of national driver’s licenses. This agreement aims to facilitate the mobility of citizens of both countries, ensuring the mutual recognition of driver’s licenses under road safety conditions and in compliance with international regulations.

Starting November 26, 2024, the exchange agreement with Honduras will come into effect, and from that date, it will be possible to request appointments for license exchange. As with other exchange agreements, which are processed through prior appointments, applicants must present the required documents on the day of the appointment.

Key points of the agreement:

1. Reciprocal recognition: National driver’s licenses issued in one of the two countries will be valid for temporary driving in the territory of the other, provided the established conditions are met.
2. License exchange without additional tests: Holders of valid and current driver’s licenses can request an exchange for an equivalent license in the country of residence without the need to take theoretical or practical exams. However, for specific license categories (C1, C1+E, C, C+E, D1, D1+E, D, and D+E), a practical driving test will be required.
3. Authenticity verification: Before the exchange, the authorities of each country will exchange information to verify the validity of the original license.
4. Indefinite duration of the agreement: The agreement will remain in effect indefinitely, although either Party may terminate it with 90 days’ notice.

Competent authorities:

• In Spain: The Directorate-General for Traffic (DGT).
• In Honduras: The National Directorate of Roads and Transportation (DNVT).

This agreement reflects the cooperation between the two countries in terms of mobility and respect for fundamental rights, ensuring the protection of personal data in the information exchange processes.

For more details, consult the full text of the agreement published in the BOE: Access the document.

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On November 19, the Council of Ministers approved, at the proposal of the Ministry of Inclusion, Social Security, and Migration, a new Immigration Regulation. Its main objectives are to align the regulations with the current migratory landscape, meet the needs of both the labor market and migrants, and address the demographic challenges of the country. Furthermore, the new text complies with European Union law by transposing pending directives and applying EU regulations.

Key Changes: Visas

The new regulation introduces a specific section for visas, clarifying authorization schemes, requirements, and general procedures. All initial authorizations will now be issued for one year, with subsequent renewals lasting four years.

This change aims to prevent situations of irregular status, which the new regulation also addresses by simplifying and clarifying the process of transitioning from one residence status to another. For instance, migrants will no longer need to leave the country to obtain long-term residency after holding a temporary one.

Additionally, the job search visa, previously valid for three months, has been extended to one year. This visa allows migrants to search for employment in specific occupations and geographical areas. The 12-month duration provides migrants with more time to find a job suited to their professional profile while enabling companies to hire the talent they need.

Key Changes: Five Types of “Arraigo”

A notable aspect of the reform is the inclusion of different types of arraigo (rootedness). Spain is the only European Union country with specific mechanisms to regularize individuals through five modalities of arraigo: social, socio-labor, family, socio-educational, and second-chance rootedness, the latter being one of the most significant novelties in the new regulation.

The second-chance arraigo targets individuals who held a residence permit in the last two years but failed to renew it for various reasons.

The goal is to expand and strengthen pathways to regularization for migrants in Spain, enabling them to lead fulfilling lives as citizens, with both rights and responsibilities.

The time required for eligibility for most arraigo types has been reduced from three years to two, and the requirements have been made more flexible. These permits allow migrants to work, either as employees or self-employed, from the outset.

Most of these authorizations will last one year, except for the family arraigo, which will be valid for five years.

Three Pillars of Inclusion: Work, Training, and Family

The regulation creates new opportunities for inclusion, focusing on three key areas: employment, education, and family. These pillars aim to promote inclusion while maintaining strict legal standards and protecting human rights.

1. Employment
The majority of the authorizations covered by this regulation allow migrants to work immediately, without needing to apply separately for a work permit. This includes students, who will now be allowed to work up to 30 hours per week, facilitating their integration into society.

A new residence and work permit has been created for seasonal work, simplifying individual and collective hiring processes. It also enhances worker protections, ensuring clear and accessible information (in a language they understand) about working conditions, housing, and other expenses. Additionally, safeguards are in place to allow workers to change employers in cases of abuse or unforeseen circumstances, such as crop failures.

Employers will also benefit from streamlined processes, greater flexibility to meet specific needs, and more stable hiring conditions through the 1+4 residence permit structure.

2. Education
For students, the regulation introduces a study permit valid for the duration of their academic program. A streamlined process will also allow them to transition to a work permit after completing their studies.

During their studies, students can work up to 30 hours per week, regardless of the type of training they are pursuing.

The new regulation also strengthens the requirements and responsibilities of educational institutions, offering students greater protection than before.

3. Family
Family reunification procedures have been improved to support inclusion. A new residence permit has been created for family members of Spanish citizens, increasing the age limit for children from 21 to 26 and recognizing non-registered partnerships with proof of a similar relationship.

This measure primarily benefits individuals who have acquired Spanish nationality in recent years and want to bring their families to Spain.

Additionally, the concept of family reunification has been broadened to include children and parents of victims of human trafficking, sexual violence, or gender-based violence.

A Comprehensive Step Forward

This new Immigration Regulation is a significant step towards fostering migrant integration in Spain. By prioritizing work, education, and family, it seeks to create an inclusive society while addressing the country’s labor and demographic challenges. These changes ensure that migrants can participate fully as members of society, enjoying both rights and responsibilities while contributing to Spain’s economic and social growth.

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The National Immigration Council (CNIG) of Brazil has made a significant advancement in its immigration policy by approving Resolution No. 50/2024, which establishes new procedures for granting work residency permits to immigrants who have completed undergraduate or strictu sensu postgraduate studies in Brazil. This measure, published on September 5, 2024, in the Official Gazette of the Union, aims to attract and retain international academic talent, facilitating the integration of highly skilled professionals into the Brazilian labor market.

Purpose of the Resolution and Beneficiaries

The new resolution targets immigrants who have obtained their undergraduate or postgraduate degrees in Brazil, specifically those who have attended academic programs at Brazilian institutions accredited by the Ministry of Education. Both in-person and hybrid courses are accepted, provided that the final evaluation process was conducted in person at the educational institution.

A key aspect of the resolution is that most of the educational program must have been completed in Brazil at accredited institutions. This ensures that immigrants granted work residency authorization have received proper training aligned with the country’s educational standards. Primarily, this measure benefits immigrants who chose Brazil for their studies and now wish to pursue their professional careers there.

However, the resolution outlines certain exclusions. It does not cover students participating in programs like the Undergraduate Student Agreement Program (PEC) by the Federal Government or the University of International Integration of Afro-Brazilian Lusophony (UNILAB). These programs, designed to promote cultural and educational exchange, impose specific conditions, such as returning to the students’ home countries after completing their studies. In such cases, work residency authorization can only be requested after fulfilling those obligations in their country of origin.

Once a request is approved, the work residency permit is granted for an initial period of up to two years. During this time, immigrants can work in Brazil in areas related to their field of study. This measure aims to foster stability and professional development for qualified immigrants while contributing to the country’s economic growth.

After the initial residency period, there is an option to request an extension to indefinite residency, provided all established requirements are met.

Professional Qualification Requirements

A crucial feature of the new resolution is that immigrants whose area of expertise requires specific professional licensing—such as passing exams, tests, competitions, or registering with a professional council—must complete these steps before being allowed to practice their profession in Brazil. This ensures that only those meeting Brazil’s professional standards can engage in regulated activities.

This aspect of the resolution underscores Brazil’s commitment to maintaining the quality of its regulated professions and safeguarding labor standards, ensuring that immigrants joining the workforce are adequately prepared for their roles.

Broader Impact

Through this initiative, Brazil seeks not only to facilitate the integration of qualified immigrants into the labor market but also to strengthen its economy by incorporating professionals trained within the country. The resolution offers immigrants the benefit of a stable working environment while providing Brazilian companies access to highly skilled talent.

The government of Brazil hopes that these measures will help retain international academic talent, enabling foreign professionals to continue their careers in the country after completing their studies. This approach benefits both the immigrants and the companies operating in Brazil.

Resolution No. 50/2024 came into effect on October 5, 2024, 30 days after its publication. From this date, eligible immigrants can start submitting their applications for work residency permits, contributing to the strengthening of Brazil’s workforce and promoting the integration of immigrants into its economic and social fabric.

This initiative marks an important step in establishing Brazil as a preferred destination for international talent, offering opportunities for those who choose the country for their education and professional growth.

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The EES (Entry/Exit System) and ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) are automated computer systems for recording and controlling personal data of nationals from non-EU countries crossing the external borders of the Schengen Area.

Neither system is currently operational, with implementation planned for 2025.

The European Union and Management of External Borders

These European initiatives are part of a set of measures aimed at improving the management of the external borders of Schengen member states.

The future automated systems aim to enhance the effectiveness and reliability of controls at the external borders of the Schengen Area, enabling member states and EU agencies to ensure better information sharing to combat cross-border crime and terrorism while achieving more effective border management, all under strict respect for fundamental rights and European data protection legislation.

EES (Entry/Exit System): A New Automated System for Recording Data of Non-EU Nationals Entering the Schengen Area

The EES is an automated digital data collection device for personal information of nationals from non-EU countries, whether or not they are subject to visa requirements, which will be implemented upon entry and exit from the Schengen Area.

Specifically, the EES replaces the manual stamping of passports for third-country nationals and will allow for electronic monitoring of entry, exit, denial of entry, and duration of stay for nationals from non-EU countries crossing the external borders of the Schengen Area for short stays (up to 90 days within a 180-day period).

Who Is It Aimed At?

It is directed at nationals of non-EU countries subject to short-stay visa requirements and ETIAS, who will be staying for a short duration (up to 90 days within a 180-day period) in the territory of a Schengen member state.

What Personal Data Will Be Recorded?

• Date and time of entry and exit.
• Place of entry and exit.
• Last name(s) and first name(s) of the national.
• Passport number of the national.
• Photograph of the national.
• Fingerprint of the national.
• It will also record any denial of entry for a short stay.

ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System): A New Prerequisite for Visa-Exempt Short-Stay Travelers Accessing European Territory

ETIAS is a travel authorization, not a visa, established by the European Commission. It will be required by the 30 member states of the expanded Schengen Area. It is a completely electronic system, similar to the United States’ Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), designed to reinforce controls on foreign travelers in the EU, with the goal of detecting potential threats.

It is scheduled to go into service in 2025.

Who Is It Aimed At?

ETIAS will be directed at nationals from approximately sixty non-EU countries that benefit from visa exemption for short stays when traveling to the expanded Schengen Area.

This travel authorization will have a maximum duration of 90 days. Affected third-country nationals must apply for it prior to traveling to European territory: the authorization will be valid for three years for multiple entries or until the expiration date of the travel document used to make the application.

Applications will be made online by completing a simple form. The travel authorization will generally be issued within a maximum period of 96 hours from the date of application and payment of a fee of €7. If additional investigation is required, this processing period may be extended.

It should be noted that no fee will be required from third-country nationals under 18 years old, over 70 years old, family members of EU nationals, or third-country nationals with the right to free movement within the EU.

List of Countries Affected by ETIAS: Who should apply – European Union (europa.eu)

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Executive Decree 193 of October 15, 2024, has been published, which modifies provisions of the Permanent Resident category for economic reasons: Qualified Investor.

New forms of investment have been added, giving foreign investors more options to apply for Permanent Residency in Panama, as well as new ways of verification, including a promise of sale.

With this new decree, permanent residency in Panama can be obtained with an investment of at least three hundred thousand US dollars (USD 300,000.00), in one of the following forms:

1. Real Estate Investment: Three hundred thousand US dollars (USD 300,000.00) in the purchase of a property, free of encumbrances. If the property exceeds this amount, the rest may be financed by a local bank.
2. Investment through a Promise of Sale Agreement of three hundred thousand US dollars (USD 300,000.00), in the following scenarios:

   A. Trust Deposit, managed by a bank or trust company in Panama, for which the following must be provided: • A notarized copy of the contract and the original (or notarized copy) of the trust agreement, which must establish that the full amount in the trust will be disbursed to pay the obligations assumed by the trustor as part of the promise of sale agreement made with the real estate company.

   B. Through payment to the developer or seller of 100% of the property that has not yet been built or registered with the Public Registry, for which the following must be provided: • A notarized copy of the Sales Agreement. • A Bank Guarantee of compliance in favor of the investor, established under a series of conditions.

3. Investment in Securities: Individuals who make one or more investments through a securities house for a total of five hundred thousand US dollars (USD 500,000.00) in securities issuers whose business affects the national territory, through the Panama Stock Exchange, and whose commitment is maintained for at least five years, will be eligible for this category.
4. Investment in Fixed-Term Deposit: A foreigner who makes an investment of seven hundred and fifty thousand US dollars (USD 750,000.00) in a fixed-term deposit may qualify for permanent residency. This must be made at a local bank with a natural license, and the deposit must have a minimum term of five years.

In all cases, and depending on the form of investment planned in Panama, the proper procedure and documentation must be followed as established. It must be demonstrated that the funds come from a foreign source and can be through a natural person or a legal entity; in the latter case, the applicant must be the ultimate beneficiary.

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Starting on September 16, Germany will implement temporary border controls at all its land borders, a measure initially set to last six months. The primary goal is to manage the increase in irregular migration into the country, allowing authorities greater control over the entry and exit of individuals. These controls will be applied flexibly, adjusting to security needs at the borders with countries like France, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Belgium, and Denmark. Additionally, existing controls, which have been in place since October 2023, will continue at the borders with Switzerland, Austria, the Czech Republic, and Poland.

Details of the Border Controls

The measure focuses on strengthening security at land borders, aiming to enhance Germany’s ability to intercept illegal activities, such as smuggling and human trafficking, as well as to detect and prevent potential terrorist threats. German authorities have emphasized that these controls will be “dynamic” and will adapt to security demands, meaning they will not be uniform across all borders or permanent over time.

These controls do not represent a total closure of the borders but will increase inspections and monitoring at key crossing points, with a particular focus on roads, trains, and airports near border areas. Security forces will also be equipped with advanced technological tools, such as facial recognition systems and biometric databases, to detect individuals with criminal records or those in the country without the proper permits.

Legal Basis and Regulatory Framework

The reintroduction of these temporary border controls is backed by the Schengen Borders Code, which allows EU member states to implement such measures in exceptional situations. The code stipulates that controls can be activated when there are threats to internal security or uncontrolled migration flows. However, European regulations require that these measures be “necessary and proportionate,” meaning they must be reviewed periodically and cannot be extended indefinitely without justification.

According to the European legal framework, Germany will need to communicate and justify to EU authorities any decision to extend these controls beyond the initial six-month period. While these measures are temporary, there is a possibility that they could be prolonged if security or migration conditions do not improve in the short term.

Impact on Cross-Border Mobility and Trade

The reestablishment of border controls in Germany could also have a direct impact on the mobility of citizens and trade in the border regions. In recent decades, thanks to the Schengen Agreement, millions of Europeans have been able to move freely between member countries without going through border checks. The reintroduction of these inspections may cause delays in the movement of people and goods, affecting cross-border workers, tourists, and transport companies that rely on smooth transit between neighboring countries.

Additionally, sectors such as transportation and logistics could face operational disruptions. Businesses that depend on cross-border trade, particularly in regions near the borders with France, Belgium, and the Netherlands, may encounter longer wait times for the clearance of goods, which could impact supply chains. In response, the German government has assured that measures will be implemented to minimize the impact on commercial activities, aiming to make the controls as unobtrusive as possible without compromising security.

Economic and Social Repercussions in Border Regions

Border regions in Germany have experienced significant economic integration over the past two decades, with a high volume of trade and a dense network of cross-border workers. In these areas, unrestricted mobility has been crucial for economic and social growth. However, the implementation of border controls, even temporarily, could have repercussions on the development of these regions.

Delays at border crossings and increased inspections could negatively affect cross-border workers, who depend on quick and efficient transit to reach their jobs in neighboring countries. Additionally, local businesses that trade products across these borders may face higher operating costs due to potential delays and the need to adjust their supply chains. Local authorities have already expressed concern about the potential impact these measures could have on regional economies, especially if the controls extend beyond the initial six-month period.

Mitigation Measures

To address these challenges, the German government has stated that the controls will be applied selectively, focusing primarily on high-risk areas in terms of security and irregular migration. The use of advanced recognition technologies and risk analysis will be prioritized, which could reduce the number of people stopped for inspection at the busiest crossing points. Additionally, the possibility of implementing random checks instead of systematic inspections is being considered to speed up traffic flows while maintaining security.

Germany is also in discussions with neighboring governments to coordinate actions in border areas and ensure that the implementation of the controls does not create tensions or misunderstandings. In this sense, cooperation mechanisms will be sought to make the controls more efficient and less disruptive for travelers and businesses.

Long-Term Assessment

Although German authorities have insisted that the controls are temporary and necessary to ensure security and reduce irregular migration, their possible extension beyond six months will depend on the migration situation and the effectiveness of these measures. If prolonged, the long-term implications for the Schengen Agreement and the principle of free movement within the European Union could become a topic of debate.

In conclusion, Germany’s decision to temporarily reinforce its border controls is aimed at managing irregular migration and associated security risks more effectively. However, these measures will also have a significant impact on mobility, trade, and daily life in border regions, making it crucial to implement strategies to mitigate the negative effects in these areas.

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Exchanging a driving licence is a fundamental process for those who move to Spain from abroad and wish to maintain their ability to drive legally in the country. It involves the homologation of a foreign driving licence, exchanging it for the equivalent Spanish licence. This procedure is not only simpler than obtaining a new licence, but can also save you time and complications in the long run.

What does exchanging a licence entail?

Exchanging a licence includes the homologation of all driving authorisations you have on your original licence. This means that if you have different categories of licences on your foreign driving licence, they will all be recognised on your new Spanish licence. This feature is especially beneficial for those who need to drive vehicles of different types, from cars to motorcycles or commercial vehicles.

Who can benefit from exchanging a licence?

Exchanging a licence is available for driving licences from countries in the European Union, the European Economic Area (including Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway), as well as Andorra, Switzerland and Monaco. In addition, licenses from several countries outside Europe can be exchanged, as long as there is a prior agreement between Spain and those countries. Some of the countries that have exchange agreements include:

• South America: Argentina, Colombia, Ecuador, Uruguay, Peru, Chile, Bolivia, Brazil, Paraguay, Dominican Republic, Guatemala.
• Asia and Africa: South Korea, Japan, Morocco, Algeria, Philippines, Turkey, Ukraine, Tunisia.
• ​​Others: Serbia, Nicaragua, Panama, Costa Rica, United Kingdom, Northern Ireland and New Zealand.

At Expat Feliu, we are committed to facilitating all the necessary procedures related to the homologation of your driving license. We now offer exchanges of all types of driving licenses, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free process. If you are interested in making an exchange, do not hesitate to contact us. Our team of experts is ready to guide you through every step of the process and answer any questions you may have.

For more information about our services and to start the exchange process, visit our website: www.expatfeliu.com. Your peace of mind and legality behind the wheel are our priority.

From April 2025, the UK will require all visitors who do not require a visa to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to enter the country, as part of its effort to expand the digital border control system. This new regulation aims to strengthen border security and make travel safer and more controlled, in line with global trends towards digitalisation of immigration procedures.

Who will need to apply for an ETA?

Under the new UK government regulations, any traveller wishing to enter the UK, with the exception of British and Irish citizens, will need to have a valid travel authorisation. For most visitors, this will be done through an ETA or an eVisa, depending on their particular situation. The ETA system will be available from 27 November 2024 for eligible non-European travellers, and will be mandatory for these visitors from 8 January 2025. The system will then be extended to EU citizens, who will be required to have an ETA from 2 April 2025, with applications possible from 5 March of the same year.

What is the ETA and how does it work?

The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a digital authorisation linked directly to the traveller’s passport. This system allows the British authorities to carry out thorough security checks before the visitor begins their journey to the United Kingdom, ensuring that those entering comply with all legal and security requirements. The implementation of this system reflects a global trend towards more rigorous immigration controls and the need to adapt the immigration infrastructure to an increasingly digital world.

To apply for an ETA, travellers will need to enter their personal and travel information into the electronic system, and the authorisation will be processed within a few days. All the information required to make the application will be available on the official UK government website, and applicants will be able to apply quickly and easily through the UK ETA mobile app.

Travellers planning to visit the UK are advised to ensure that their passport is valid and compatible with the ETA system, and to start the application process well in advance to avoid any setbacks. Those without the required authorisation will not be able to board flights to the UK, as airlines will need to verify the validity of the ETA before allowing access on board.

Impact on the transport sector and airlines

The implementation of the ETA will directly affect the main air routes that connect the UK with the rest of the world. Key airports such as London Heathrow (LHR), London Gatwick (LGW), Manchester (MAN) and Birmingham (BHX) will be at the forefront of this transition to a digital immigration control system. Airlines operating to and from the UK will be required to integrate ETA verification processes into their booking systems to ensure that all passengers meet the requirements before boarding. This measure seeks to avoid delays in immigration controls upon arrival in the country, streamlining processes at British airports.

In addition, airlines are working on adapting their digital platforms to facilitate the verification of ETAs, so that travellers can manage all immigration requirements in advance and without complications. This will also provide an additional level of security for airlines, as they will be able to avoid last-minute problems with passengers who do not meet the entry requirements to the UK.

Tips for travelers

• Travelers planning to visit the UK after the ETA is implemented should take into account some key recommendations to ensure their trip goes smoothly.
• Check passport validity: It is essential that the passport is up to date and compatible with the ETA system. It is recommended to renew the passport if it is about to expire.
• Apply for the ETA in advance: Although the application process is quick, it is advisable to apply for the ETA as soon as possible, especially during peak travel season, to avoid delays.

Check UK entry policies: Entry regulations may change, so travelers are advised to keep abreast of updates through the official British government website.

Migrants and residents in the UK

The British government has also informed migrants currently residing in the UK that the validity of the passport is not valid.

In the UK with physical immigration documents, such as the Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) or passports with physical stamps, they will need to create an electronic account to access their eVisa. This step is part of the UK’s strategy to digitise all immigration documents, making it easier to access information and eliminating the need for physical documents. Most BRPs expire on 31 December 2024, so holders of these permits are urged to manage their renewal before this date.

The modernisation of UK immigration control

With the implementation of the ETA system, the UK is taking an important step towards modernising its immigration controls. This measure will not only provide greater security at the borders, but will also facilitate access to the country for travellers who meet the requirements. The British authorities have stressed the importance of planning ahead and familiarising yourself with the new system to avoid problems and ensure a smooth journey.

In short, the ETA is a key tool in the UK’s efforts to improve the security and efficiency of its immigration system, adapting it to the needs of the modern world, and allowing both travellers and airlines to easily adapt to these new requirements.

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