The United Kingdom’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system has now been extended to include travelers from Europe.
As of 2 April 2025, all travelers from Europe will require an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) approval—or, for certain individuals who are not EU citizens—a visa—to enter the UK.
Starting from January 8, 2025, the system has become obligatory for travelers coming from the United States, Canada, and Australia. This followed its implementation in November for citizens of Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.
Continue reading for information about the price, validity period, and how to obtain it.
What is the ETA?
The ETA supersedes the Single-Use Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW) program, providing an affordable alternative with multiple entry privileges.
The UK government acknowledges that it is not
visa
And it does not allow entry into the UK. Instead, it grants a person permission to journey to the UK.
TheETAisnowrequiredforalleligiblenationalities.Youcanfindthelistofcountriesinfull.
here
.
What steps should I follow to apply for an ETA to visit the UK?
Many tourists will have the option to apply via a smartphone application and should anticipate receiving an email response with a decision within three business days.
Anyone who is traveling must submit an application, this includes infants and kids as well, however, you have the option to apply on behalf of others too.
The UK government states that their app is the fastest and most convenient method to apply for an ETA. You can
download the ETA app
from the official UK government site.
If downloading the app isn’t possible for you, another option is
apply online here
.
To finish the application, ensure you have ready the following items:
passport
The travel information you’ll use, along with an email address and either a credit card, debit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay. There will be a series of suitability questions for you to answer. Entering your travel specifics isn’t required.
You have the option to remove the app once you’ve completed the application process. Your estimated time of arrival will be electronically connected to your passport, so you won’t need to present any additional documents upon entering the UK.
When should you apply for your Electronic Travel Authority?
The authorities state: “It is mandatory to apply for an ETA prior to your journey to the UK. You have permission to travel to the UK even as you await their decision.”
Given that the majority of applications receive a response within three days, it’s advisable to submit your application at least three days before traveling to the UK. However, you have the option to apply well in advance.
What is the cost of the UK ETA?
Similar to the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) used in the United States, a
fee
is linked to the application process.
The cost for an ETA is £10 (roughly €12 when this was written), which will increase to £16 (around €19) starting from April 9, 2025.
For how long is the estimated time of arrival (ETA) valid?
A Two-year period encompasses an ETA. There’s no need to reapply within this duration.
You have unlimited visits to the UK within the validity period, yet each stay must not exceed six months. Be sure to check this condition.
UK government website
For additional information regarding the permissions and restrictions associated with an ETA, please refer to the relevant guidelines.
Remember that you must submit an application for a new ETA if you obtain a new passport, since your ETA is associated with it.
Do I require a visa to visit the UK?
As stated earlier, the ETA is not a visa; however, it does provide authorization to enter the country.
All travelers who presently do not need a visa will be required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) prior to their journey. This applies even to individuals who typically do not have to fill out any forms when visiting the UK. The same rule pertains to citizens from countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and more.
European
Citizens require an Electronic Travel Authorization even for brief visits or when transiting through the UK, for instance.
Visitors coming from nations without visa-exempt status with the UK must continue to apply for the appropriate visa along with an ETA.
If you fail to register before traveling, the government has warned that you might face a fine; however, they haven’t provided additional information regarding this policy.
Even if you’re not passing through border control, you still need to apply if you are transiting through the UK.
TheETA grants you permission to enter the UK for up to six months for purposes such as tourism, visiting relatives and friends, conducting business activities, or engaging in short-term studies.
Alternatively, you may obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) instead of a visa if you’re entering the UK for up to three months under the Creative Worker visa concession or if you’re visiting the UK for a permitted paid engagement. However, outside these specific circumstances, you cannot utilize an ETA to perform either compensated or uncompensated work for a British firm or operate independently within the country.
Who doesn’t require an estimated time of arrival?
Citizens of Britain and Ireland, individuals who possess a valid visa or authorization to reside, work, or study in the United Kingdom, travelers holding passports associated with British Overseas Territories, as well as residents of Ireland traveling from Ireland, Guernsey, Jersey, or the Isle of Man do not require an ETA.
What is the reason behind the introduction of the ETA system in the UK?
The ETA is included as part of the UK’s strategy to
digitise
Its boundaries at UK airports by the conclusion of 2025.
The plan aims to decrease
queues at the border
aiding in accelerating lawful trips to the UK.
Facial recognition
The technology needed for such “contactless corridors” could be implemented according to The Times, a British newspaper. This would necessitate international travelers submitting personal and biometric information, including photographs of themselves.
faces
via the new Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system prior to their flight.