Visa issues still impacting Island residents 

Government plans to introduce its own corresponding ETA scheme in the near future

Polish residents on the Isle of Man say they often face issues at the UK border when travelling to the Island because of the letter issued by the Manx Government.

In recent weeks, Manx Radio has highlighted problems experienced by South Africans, Filipinos and Indian nationals who have been stopped at the border due to the Island’s wet ink visa stamp.

Immigration services have been in the spotlight in recent weeks.

Last month, a South African woman said she was accused of trying to enter the UK illegally as she attempted to return home to the Island.

Despite explaining the Common Travel Area, she said she was not listened to.

You can find out more HERE.

Since then, four Indian residents have told us they were left stranded in the Netherlands for four days after being denied entry to the UK.

You can find out more HERE.

They say it took visits to the UK embassy and numerous calls to both the UK and Isle of Man governments before they were able to return home.

Today, Arbory, Castletown and Malew MHK Jason Moorhouse will ask the Treasury Minister in the House of Keys for an update on the wet ink stamp issue:

However, more nationalities have now come forward highlighting issues they have faced.

Ranita Szyminska and Paulina Bienasz, explained some of the difficulties they have experienced.

Although they do not receive a wet ink stamp, they must present their passports along with an Isle of Man Government letter at the border, which they say often causes confusion:

Meanwhile, the Isle of Man Government is advising residents to ensure their details are up to date and that they carry valid documentation when travelling.

But for those travelling within the Common Travel Area, there is no legal requirement to carry evidence of identity or immigration status.

However, travellers must comply with the requirements of their travel provider and ensure they have the necessary valid documentation.

From Wednesday, 25 February, the United Kingdom will begin enforcing its Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme.

British and Irish passport holders, as well as those with existing immigration status to live, work or study in the Isle of Man or UK, will not require an ETA.

However, anyone travelling to the UK from elsewhere will need to demonstrate that they are a British or Irish citizen, hold immigration status, or have a valid ETA.

The Isle of Man Government says it plans to introduce its own corresponding ETA scheme in the near future.

You can find the full statement HERE.