Navigating UK travel just got a little more digital. Since 8 January 2025, many travelers—especially those who don’t need a visa to visit the UK—must now obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before boarding their flight. This blog unpacks what the ETA is, who needs it, how to apply, and what it does (and doesn’t) allow.
1. What Is an ETA?
An ETA is a digital travel approval required for short visits (up to 6 months) to the UK for tourism, business, short-term study, or certain creative work It is not a visa, and having one does not guarantee entry into the UK Instead, it acts as the authorization needed before travel, streamlining border security.
2. Who Needs One—and How It Rolled Out
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From 8 January 2025, ETA became mandatory for visa-exempt non-European travelers—including citizens from the USA, Canada, and Australia
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From 2 April 2025, eligibility expanded to include all European nationalities—excluding Ireland, who remain exempt under the Common Travel Area
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It’s also a requirement for children and even those on short paid engagements—unless they already hold permission to live, work, or study in the UK
3. ETA Application Process
How to apply:
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Use the UK ETA app or apply via GOV.UK
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Provide your passport, a photo of yourself, contact details, and answer basic suitability questions.
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Pay a fee—£10 initially, rising to £16 from April 2025
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Expect a decision within 3 working days, although the app may deliver faster results
Once approved, the ETA is linked electronically to your passport, and remains valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. It allows multiple entries, each up to six months in duration.
4. What ETA Isn’t & Who’s Exempt
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ETA does not grant entry—you can still be refused at the border if any issues arise
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Exemptions include:
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British or Irish citizens,
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Holders of valid UK visas or settled status,
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People traveling through the UK airside without crossing border control,
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Children on official France–UK school trips, among others
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5. Why It Matters & What to Watch For
No ETA, No Travel – Airlines must check ETA eligibility before allowing boarding—failure to comply can mean denied flights or fines for carriers.
Don’t Be Fooled – Only use the official ETA app or GOV.UK site. Third-party agents may charge more or misuse your data ([turn0search28]).
Quick Reference Table
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What is an ETA? | Digital pre-authorisation needed before visiting the UK. |
| Required for whom? | Visa-exempt travelers (non-Europeans from Jan 8; Europeans from April 2). |
| How to apply? | Via the UK ETA app or GOV.UK—submit documents, pay fee, wait for confirmation |
| How long is it valid? | 2 years or until passport expires. |
| Cost? | £10 initially; rising to £16 in April 2025. |
| Exemptions? | UK/Irish citizens, visa holders, settled individuals, airside transits, etc. |
| Does it guarantee entry? | No—ETA allows travel; border officers still decide final entry. |
Ready to travel? Not sure if you need an ETA—or how it might affect your short-term visit?
Reach out today—we can guide you through eligibility checks, application help, and any visa alternatives you may need.
