Not just ESTA or ETA, here are the other mandatory electronic authorizations for travel and the countries that require them
It was a few days ago that news of the doubled cost of ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization), the electronic authorization to travel [...]
It is from a few days ago the news of the doubled cost of ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization), The electronic authorization to travel to the United States, which will force interested travelers to reach into their wallets. And unfortunately, it is a cost that cannot be avoided, because it is a mandatory document.
In this article:
Like the United States, other countries also require this type of document (or a similar one) to gain access, whether for tourism, business Or a simple airport stopover.
As we all know by now - Because it has been talked about so much in the past few months. - from March 2025 this kind of Electronic authorization is also required to enter the UK.
This is the famous ETA, mandatory for all European citizens, including Italians, introduced by the British government with the aim of "strengthening security through new technologies and incorporating a modern immigration system." Only British and Irish citizens and those who, regardless of nationality, reside in the United Kingdom are exempt.
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But it doesn't end there, of course.
Electronic authorization, which countries require it
In recent years, more and more countries have adopted this electronic visa system to simplify entry for travelers.
Among the most popular countries chosen by Italians for their vacations or trips that require this document are Canada (ETA or AVE, Authorization de Voyage Électronique), New Zealand (NZeTA, New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority), Japan (JESTA, Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorization.), Singapore (SG Arrival Card), Thailand (TDAC, Thailand Digital Arrival Card), Malaysia (MDAC, Digital Arrival Card), Sri Lanka (ETA, Electronic Travel Authorization), Australia (ETA, Electronic Travel Authorization), etc...
The costs and duration of different electronic authorizations vary greatly from country to country, so it is always advisable to consult the relevant official websites well before making travel arrangements.
Electronic authorization and visa, what is the difference
You may happen to confuse electronic travel authorization (ETA or eTA) with a visa, but-beware! - they are two different documents.
The former is a preliminary travel authorization required of citizens of visa-exempt countries for short stays, while the latter-the visa-is a formal authorization to enter a country.
The main difference lies in the procedure for obtaining and the type of permit: electronic authorization is digital and faster, often obtained online, while the traditional visa requires more complex procedures and may include an interview at the embassy or consulate.
Conclusion
ESTA, ETA or other electronic authorizations are required to visit certain countries. They have different costs and durations, which vary from country to country. So one should always stay up-to-date and consult official websites to know the latest provisions decided by different governments.
Nevertheless, let us not forget that Italian passport is considered among the strongest in the world. Which means that it grants access to 194 different "visa free" destinations, that is, without a visa similarly to the passports of France, Germany, Japan, Singapore and Spain.
