The authorities in the United Kingdom are cancelling visa-free transit for citizens of Georgia and Russia at the country's airports. This information is included in the updated rules on the British government's website.

There is a transitional period in place until October 6 when the restriction takes effect. Citizens of Georgia and Russia who have purchased tickets before 00:01 on September 8 will still be able to use transit.

Exceptions are also provided: for example, the restrictions will not apply to citizens who have visas or residency permits for the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Switzerland, or any of the states in the European Economic Area.

"Since 2018, citizens of Georgia and Russia have consistently ranked at the top among individuals abusing the transit conditions of the United Kingdom to seek asylum. The Ministry of the Interior believes that requiring transit visas for these citizens before visiting the UK will prevent them from arriving in the UK under the pretext of transit and then seeking asylum upon arrival," writes the NewlandChase portal.

It is reported that typically a regulatory act comes into force no earlier than 21 days after it is introduced for consideration in Parliament. The reason it took effect almost immediately this time is due to concerns that there could be a significant increase in asylum seekers before it came into effect.