Last month, the authorities in Jersey indicated that the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for direct travel to Jersey, Guernsey and the Isle of Man would be introduced from April 2026, but without providing a detailed timeline.
In an update published on its official website, the Government of Jersey has now provided additional details on the rollout of the ETA system for the Crown Dependencies.
According to the information now released, ETA applications are expected to open on April 9, 2026, for direct travel to Jersey, Guernsey and the Isle of Man starting on April 23, 2026.
Authorities note, however, that this timeline could still change, while emphasizing that applications will not open before April 9. More detailed communication on the implementation of the system is expected by April 1.
In the meantime, travelers heading directly to Jersey, Guernsey and the Isle of Man before the system enters into force will not need an ETA.
A procedure still awaiting further details
Although the opening date for applications is now known, several practical aspects of the system still need to be clarified.
At this stage, authorities have not indicated whether travelers will need to apply through a dedicated portal for the Crown Dependencies, or whether the process will be integrated into the ETA system already used for travel to the United Kingdom.
Additional information on the practical application process may be released in the coming weeks.
According to the authorities in Jersey, the ETA authorization is intended in particular to strengthen border security within the Common Travel Area (CTA) by allowing authorities to better monitor visa-exempt travelers visiting for short stays.
The system is modeled on similar arrangements already used in several countries and allows authorities to assess travel requests before passengers arrive at the border.
Authorities also emphasize that an ETA is not a visa and does not automatically guarantee entry into the Common Travel Area. Travelers will still be subject to border checks, either through eGates or by a border officer.
Travelers transiting through the United Kingdom already subject to the ETA
While the ETA for direct travel to the Crown Dependencies is expected to enter into force soon, some travelers are already subject to this requirement when transiting through the United Kingdom.
Passengers traveling to Jersey, Guernsey or the Isle of Man via a UK airport must therefore already obtain a UK ETA before departure.
Applications can be submitted online through the official UK government portal or via the “UK ETA” mobile app.
The ETA is valid for two years, or until the passport used in the application expires if that occurs sooner. The application fee is currently £16, although it may soon increase to £20.
Several categories of travelers exempt from the ETA for Jersey, Guernsey and the Isle of Man
Certain categories of travelers will remain exempt from the ETA requirement, including:
- British and Irish citizens
- Individuals holding valid immigration status within the CTA
- Holders of certain UK residence permits or visas
- Irish residents traveling from Ireland
Authorities also note that French nationals can currently travel to Jersey and Guernsey for day trips using their national identity card, a special arrangement that will remain in place until the end of 2026. However, it is still unclear whether this exemption, which notably waives both the passport and ETA requirements, will continue once the ETA system comes into force. Clarification on this point is expected in the next update announced by April 1.
