The UK's Electronic Travel Authorisation Requirement
On the 8th January 2025, the United Kingdom introduced a mandatory Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for visitors from non-European countries. This requirement is set to extend to European travellers from the 2nd April 2025.
An ETA is a digital permission to travel, designed to enhance UK border security by pre-screening travellers before they arrive. Each ETA allows stays in the UK for up to six months.
Who Requires an ETA to Travel?
• All visitors to the UK who do not require a short stay visa
• All visitors to the UK who do not already have UK immigration status
• Travellers visiting for tourism, business, short-term study, and family visits
Who Does Not Require ETA to Travel?
• UK visitors who have a visa
• UK visitors who have permission to live, work, or study in the UK
• UK visitors who have British or Irish citizenship
• UK visitors travelling with a British Overseas Territories passport
Application Process
• Applications are submitted via the official UK ETA app or through the GOV.UK website
• The process involves providing passport details, a valid photo, and answering a set of questions
• Each ETA application costs £10
• Each ETA application allows multiple entries into the UK during its validity
• Apply at least three days before your intended travel date to account for potential delays
An ETA does not permit you to work (paid or unpaid) for a UK company, claim public funds, live in the UK through frequent or successive visits, or marry or register a civil partnership. For activities beyond the scope of an ETA, you may need to apply for a specific visa.
For comprehensive details and to apply for an ETA, please visit the official UK government website:
