The United Kingdom is one of the world’s top tourist destinations, offering visa-free entry to citizens of many countries. However, starting in 2025, all visitors will need to meet new entry requirements, including obtaining an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA).
What is the UK ETA and How Does It Work?
The UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is a travel requirement set to be implemented by the UK government. It applies to travelers from visa-exempt countries who are visiting the UK for short stays, typically for tourism, business, transit or visiting friends and family. The UK ETA aims to enhance border security by screening visitors before they arrive.
This new measure reflects global trends toward digital travel authorizations, similar to systems in place in other regions like the United States (ESTA) and the European Union (ETIAS).
Who Needs an UK ETA?
Currently, the UK ETA requirement applies only to citizens of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.
Under new rules, the UK ETA will be mandatory for individuals from all countries that currently enjoy visa-free entry to the UK. This includes nationals from countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and European Union member states. As of now, travelers from these countries can enter the UK for short visits without a visa. However, with the introduction of the UK ETA, they will need to obtain prior authorization.
British and Irish nationals are exempt from this requirement, as they are part of the Common Travel Area. This means that residents and citizens of Ireland, as well as those with the legal right to reside in the UK, do not need to apply for an UK ETA to travel between these territories. However, non-EU nationals living in EU countries who do not currently require a visa will need an UK ETA if they plan to visit the UK.
Timeline for the Implementation of the UK ETA
Non-European citizens can begin applying for the UK ETA starting November 27, 2024, and it will become mandatory for trips starting January 8, 2025.
For European Union citizens, the application process opens on March 5, 2025, with the UK ETA becoming mandatory for travel from April 2, 2025.
By April 2025, all visa-exempt travelers will be required to obtain an UK ETA before entering the UK.
How to apply for the UK ETA
The application process for the UK ETA will be relatively straightforward and completed online. Travelers will be able to apply through an official UK government website or a dedicated mobile app. The goal is to simplify the process, making it accessible for a broad range of travelers, including those with varying technological access.
Applicants will need to provide their personal details, including their name, date of birth, passport number, and travel plans. Additionally, there will be a series of security-related questions aimed at assessing the eligibility and risk profile of each traveler. This could include questions about criminal history, previous immigration violations, or health-related queries.
The approval process is expected to be quick, with most applicants receiving their UK ETA approval within 3 working days. Occasionally, it may take longer than 3 working days, though it’s recommended that travelers apply well in advance of their travel date to avoid any delays..
Validity and Cost of the UK ETA
The UK ETA will be valid for multiple entries over a two-year period. This means that travelers can use the same authorization to enter the UK multiple times without needing to reapply, provided their stays do not exceed 6 months at a time.
The cost of obtaining an UK ETA will be £10. Everyone travelling needs to get an UK ETA, including babies and children.
Conclusion
For travelers, the new UK ETA adds an extra step to consider and complete before our journey. However, we can hope that the process will be efficient and ultimately help save time upon arrival in the UK.
