Brits Might Pay EU Visa Fee Post-Brexit

The EU is considering the adoption of a US-style electronic travel permit scheme that could create a new administrative hurdle for British tourists after Brexit. Immigration Minister Robert Goodwill told parliament the EU was discussing the possibility of introducing a version of America's electronic system for travel authorization, The Independent reported. Currently, foreign travelers must pay a fee of $14 (£11) when they complete ESTA, an automated online system that determines their eligibility to travel to the US. “This type of scheme is generally there to help enhance security. To get to know as much as possible about the people who are intending to travel. It isn't just flights; it could be people using ferries, or other border crossings into the European Union.” Alan Brown, an SNP member of the European Scrutiny Committee, pointed out that leave advocates (those in favor of Brexit) in the referendum campaign had said there would be no need for visa-like travel schemes after Brexit. “An ESTA still takes time and costs money, and it is something people have to repeat,” he said.