UK ETA Programme: What we know
Updated: 12 December 2024
The United Kingdom started to roll out an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) programme in Autumn 2023. ETA applications will be open from 5 March 2025 The ETA is a new requirement for people who don’t need a visa to come to the UK but will give permission for travellers to visit.
We'll answer what we know so far, including:
- What is an ETA
- Who will and won't need an ETA
What is the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)?
The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) works similarly to the US ESTA and the European Union’s ETIAS, working as a security measure for those travelling to the UK that don’t need a visa.
Those that apply for an ETA will be given permission to enter the UK, and be able to:
- Spend up to six months in the UK for tourism, visiting friends and family, business or study.
- Spend up to three months in the UK on the Creative Worker visa concession.
- Transit through the UK.
An approved ETA will be valid for two years and can be used for multiple visits to the UK. If a traveller gets a new passport in that time, they will need to get a new ETA.
It is your responsibility to apply for the ETA before your journey. If you are traveling on or after 2 April 2025, an approved ETA will be mandatory to enter the UK for tourism, business, or transit purposes.
Who will need an ETA?
The ETA was introduced in 2023 for travellers visiting from various countries in the Middle East and replaced the previous Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW) program. This was extended to nationals from Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates in Feb this year.
From January 8th, 2025, travellers from eligible non-European countries will need an ETA before arrival. Online applications will open on November 27th, 2024.
From April 2nd, 2025, travellers from European countries will need an ETA, with applications opening March 5th, 2025.
Who will not need an ETA?
Those with a British or Irish passport will not need to apply for an ETA. You also don’t have to apply if you already have permission to live, work or study in the UK, or if you have a visa to enter the UK.
If you’re a legal resident of Ireland and don’t need a visa to visit the UK, you won’t need an ETA if you’re entering the UK from Ireland, Guernsey, Jersey, or Isle of Man.
How do you get a UK ETA?
ETA applications will open from 5 March 2025. From this date, you can apply for your ETA through the ‘UK ETA’ app or the official UK government website.
We recommend applying as early as possible to ensure your ETA is approved well before your travel date.
Provide your personal, and passport details, a valid photo and payment for the fee.
Answer a set of questions., and travel details.
You will usually receive a decision within 3 working days. However, occasionally, it could take longer.
How much does a UK ETA cost?
A UK ETA will cost £10, or $13.01. This fee will be collected at the time of submission.
What to do once your ETA is approved?
You will receive an email confirmation, that you have got an ETA.
It will be linked to your passport and valid for two years. If your passport expires or you get a new passport, you will need to get a new ETA. or until the travel document you used in your application expires.
You can travel to the UK as many times as you wish during this period for short visits.
How long is the ETA valid for?
Once approved, the UK ETA will be valid for two years and can be used for multiple visits to the UK.
If your passport expires during that period, you will need to get a new ETA.
Where can I find more information?
Full details are on the UK Government's website here.
ETA applications will open from 5 March 2025. From this date, you can apply for your ETA through the ‘UK ETA’ app or the official UK government website.
Please note that an ETA does not guarantee entry to the UK. You still need to see a Border Force officer or use an ePassport gate if you are eligible.
Need help with travel to the UK? Let's talk
Feel free to reach out to your Customer Success Manager and/or Expert Travel Consultant, who will be happy to assist you.
