The UK’s new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system has been expanded to include European travellers as of 2 April 2025. This system replaces the single-use Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW) and is required for all eligible nationalities. Most visitors can apply for an ETA using a mobile app and can expect a decision within three days. The application process requires a passport, email address, and payment method. The ETA costs £10 and is valid for two years, allowing for multiple entries with a maximum stay of six months per trip.
The ETA is not a visa but grants permission to enter the UK for tourism, visits to family and friends, business, or short-term study. European nationals, as well as US, Canadian, and Australian citizens, need an ETA even for short stays or transit through the UK. Those from countries without visa-free entry agreements must still apply for the appropriate visa and an ETA. Failure to obtain an ETA before travel could result in fines, though specific details are not provided. Even travellers transiting through the UK must have an ETA, regardless of passing through border control.
Certain individuals are exempt from requiring an ETA, including British and Irish citizens, individuals with existing UK visas or residency permits, and those traveling from specific regions like Ireland, Guernsey, Jersey, or the Isle of Man. The ETA is part of the UK’s border digitization plan, aimed at reducing queues and expediting legitimate journeys into the country. The implementation of facial recognition technology is being considered to create “contactless corridors” for international travellers, requiring the submission of biographic and biometric details through the ETA system before travel.
To apply for an ETA, travellers must use the official UK government app or website, providing necessary personal and payment information for processing. Applications should be submitted at least three days before traveling, with a decision typically made within that time frame. The cost of the ETA is £10, increasing to £16 as of 9 April 2025. It is important to note that an ETA must be reapplied for in the event of obtaining a new passport, as the authorization is linked to the individual’s passport. The ETA allows for multiple entries into the UK over a two-year period, with a maximum stay of six months per visit.
In conclusion, the UK’s ETA system is now mandatory for European, US, Canadian, and Australian travellers, alongside nationals of select Middle Eastern countries. The introduction of the ETA aims to streamline border processes, reduce wait times, and enhance security measures. It is essential for eligible travellers to apply for an ETA before visiting the UK, ensuring compliance with entry requirements and avoiding potential fines or penalties. By utilizing the official government app or website, individuals can easily obtain an ETA, granting them authorization to travel to the UK for various purposes within the specified validity period.
