WTTC Criticizes New ETA Fees for European Visitors

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has strongly criticized the UK’s decision to impose an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) requirement on European travelers, calling it an unnecessary burden that could deter visitors.

WTTC President & CEO Julia Simpson warned that this move contradicts the UK’s strategy for economic growth. “Rather than making the UK a more welcoming destination, this creates yet another obstacle for tourists,” she stated.

Simpson highlighted that international visitors bring crucial foreign currency into the economy, yet the UK remains among the most expensive countries to visit. High VAT rates, Air Passenger Duty, rising costs driven by Employers' National Insurance, and the lack of tax-free shopping all contribute to making travel to the UK less appealing.

With Travel & Tourism generating over £280 billion for the UK economy and supporting more than 4 million jobs, Simpson emphasized that the industry already contributes £100 billion annually to government revenues.

She urged Prime Minister Starmer to prioritize economic growth and job security instead of implementing measures that could harm both.