Registered Traveller Program: Speed Up Your UK Entry

Imagine a scenario where you have packed your bags, made a list of the UK's finest tourist destinations, and are curious to explore them. With these dreams, you are boarding, and suddenly your excitement is quickly dampened after seeing long queues at airport immigration. Sometimes such lines carry long hours for authorization. It pushes you, tired, stressed, and already behind schedule, to dread the prospect of a delayed start to your trip.

If you are stuck in a several-hour-prolonged queue, it automatically impacts your travel plans, potentially disrupting sightseeing schedules, missing pre-booked tours, or even jeopardizing important business meetings. To avoid such travel-related hurdles, the UK government launched a Registered Traveler Program to expedite entry for pre-approved low-risk travellers.

What is the Registered Traveller Program(RTP)?

The Registered Traveler Program acts as a supporting 12th player of the travel entry at the UK's border cricket match. It allows a convenient solution to streamline the entry process of eligible frequent travellers. Once enrolled with it, use it as

• UK passport entry lanes
• ePassport gates—if there is a "chip" in your passport

Required Eligibility Points

To get into the Registered Traveler program, you must:

• Have an eligible UK visa or UK eTA
• You must have a valid UK eTA or visa. Travelled to the UK at least four times in the previous 24 months.
• Be a citizen of one of the eligible countries, such as the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and several others.
• Be at least 18 years old.
• Have a biometric passport to use the eGates.

Benefits

• Easy access to eGates is the significant benefit of this program. Due to this, you can skip the regular passport line and enjoy the faster eGates entry access at selected UK airports and Eurostar terminals.
• Once registered, eliminate the need to complete landing cards upon arrival.
• Enjoy a smoother and faster entry experience, especially during peak travel times.
• Get flexibility on entering the UK for business, leisure, or study purposes without additional paperwork.

The list of selected UK airports and Eurostar terminals

How Can I Apply for the Registered Traveler Program?

The Registered Traveler Program application process is simple and completely online:

Visit the UK government’s official Registered Traveler program website to start your application. You will need to provide details of your passport (number and expiry date), travel history, and visa (if applicable).

Pay the membership fee of £70 via online payment modes. You will receive a refund of £50 if your application is rejected.

The entire application process takes 10 business days after final submission.

Once approved, you will receive confirmation of your membership, and you can begin using the program’s benefits immediately.

The duration of membership is one year, or twelve months, from the date of issuing. If you still meet the eligibility requirements after that, you can renew.

How to use e-gates at UK airports?

• Find the specific e-gates for registered travellers as soon as you get to the airport.
• Present your passport in the specified slot on the e-gate.
• Look into the camera to allow for facial recognition.
• If the system verifies your identity, the gate will open, allowing you to proceed through border control.

Tips for a smooth journey through border control

• Get to the airport early enough to account for any unforeseen delays.
• Your passport must be valid and has not expired during your presence in the UK.
• Pay close attention to the directions on the e-gates and suggestions given by airport personnel.
• Consult a border control officer if you experience any technical difficulties using the e-gates.
• Get in touch with the UK Border Force if you have any questions concerning the program or your eligibility.

Maintaining your Registered Traveller status

Do not forget to update any change to your address with the UK authorities to maintain your Registered Traveller status.

If your passport is renewed, instantly update with the program's info.

Your Registered Traveler status could be revoked if you give incorrect information or use e-gates in an ineligible manner. Misuse of the program is prohibited.

Conclusion

If you are a frequent traveller to the UK, then you must go through with this quick Registered Traveler Programme. The program makes it quicker to enter the UK without the need to fill out arrival forms. There is another online option to get frequent entry into the UK via air: an e-visa, the UK eTA. Its process is too simple and provides a six-month stay in the UK with multiple entry benefits. So, as per your comfort and eligibility, apply for it and enjoy hassle-free entry at airports.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long Registered Traveler Program application process?

After the final submission of the application, the authority will respond within 10 working days.

What happens if my application is rejected?

You will get  £50 back and can contact the authority for the further process.

How much does the program cost?

It charges £70 for the first 12 months.

Can I register my child for this program?

Yes, if the child is below 17, you can add them to this program's membership. But there will be some limitations:

• You can apply to add it when 29 days or more are left.
• The ePassport gates will not be accessible to you.
• The membership of your child will expire concurrently with yours.
• Both your child's and your memberships must be updated or renewed separately.
• Each child requires a £20 membership and administration fee, equating to £2 monthly until membership ends.

How long does it typically take for my child to be added to my membership?

The immigration officer confirms your child’s addition, and you’ll receive an email within 48 hours.

Are there any documents required to carry while entering the UK under the Registered Traveler Program?

• You need to have a birth or adoption certificate proving your relationship to the child with you if you are travelling with them.

If surnames are different, a divorce or marriage certificate.

READ MORE:
The UK is the dream destination for travellers. It’s perfect blend of old-world charm, rich history, diverse culture, iconic landmarks, and modern vibrancy is awaiting. However, first-time visitors find it hard to explore every important entity. Learn more at Tourist Guide to the UK for First-Time Visitors.

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You should check your eligibility for UK eTA and apply for UK eTA at least 3 (three) days before your scheduled trip to United Kingdom. Citizens of many countries including Korean citizens, Australian citizens, Canadian citizens, Japanese citizens and New Zealand citizens can apply online for UK eTA.