Do you know that European citizens need to apply for an ETA before travelling to the UK?
From April 2, 2025
Effective April 2, 2025, European citizens, including those from the European Union (EU), require an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to enter the United Kingdom (UK). This marks the latest step in the UK government’s initiative to digitise its border system and streamline the entry process for millions of travellers annually.
The introduction of the ETA for EU citizens follows the scheme’s expansion to include non-European nationals, such as visitors from the USA, Canada, and Australia, in 2024. UK and Irish citizens do not need an ETA.
The ETA is not a visa and does not permit entry into the UK. Instead, it authorises a person to travel to the UK. The ETA scheme replaces the single-use Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW) scheme, offering a lower cost option with multi-entry validity. The ETA scheme is similar to the ESTA system used in the US.
Here’s everything you need to know about the ETA and how it will impact your travel plans to the UK.
What is an ETA?
An ETA is a digital permit that allows travellers to visit or transit through the UK for short stays without requiring a visa. It is mandatory for individuals not eligible for a visa-free entry, including those from the EU who do not hold a valid UK visa.
This move comes as part of the UK government’s broader strategy to digitise immigration controls and enhance security at the UK border. The ETA enables authorities to screen travellers before they enter the country, offering increased safety and a smoother process for legitimate visitors.
The UK Minister for Migration and Citizenship, Seema Malhotra, stressed the importance of the ETA in enhancing UK border security and providing a seamless travel experience. “Securing our borders is a foundation of the UK government’s Plan for Change, and by digitising the immigration system, we are paving the way for a contactless UK border,” she said.
Who needs an ETA?
As of April 2, 2025, all EU citizens, including those from member countries such as France, Germany, Italy, and Spain, must apply for an ETA to travel to the UK. The application process is simple and can be done via the UK ETA app or online through gov.uk.
The ETA allows travellers to stay in the UK for up to six months for tourism, visiting family and friends, doing business, or doing short-term study. However, it is not a visa, and certain conditions apply.
How to apply for an ETA
Applying for an ETA is quick and straightforward. You can submit your application via the UK ETA app, available for download on both the App Store and Google Play. Alternatively, you can apply online through the UK government website if you do not have access to a smartphone.
To apply, you will need to provide:
- Your passport details
- Biometric and biographic information
- A response to questions regarding suitability and criminality
Once your ETA is approved, it will be digitally linked to your passport, allowing you to travel to the UK without needing a physical visa. Most applicants receive approval within minutes, though it is recommended that you allow up to three working days for additional review in case additional review is required.
ETA costs and validity
The cost of applying for an ETA is £10. This fee allows you to travel to the UK multiple times over two years, or until your passport expires, whichever comes sooner.
Starting April 9, 2025, the application fee will increase to £16.
Who does not need an ETA?
Specific individuals are exempt from applying for an ETA:
- UK citizens
- Irish citizens
- Those with settled or pre-settled status in the UK
- Holders of a valid UK visa
- Individuals transiting through a UK airport without passing through border control (check with your airline)
Additionally, dual citizens with British or Irish citizenship do not need an ETA, provided they can present a valid British or Irish passport at the border.
How long does receiving an estimated arrival time (ETA) take?
While most ETA applications are processed almost instantly, it is advisable to apply at least three working days before your intended travel date. Group applications must be submitted individually, and decisions may vary by individual.
You can still travel to the UK while waiting for an ETA decision, but it is essential to have your ETA approved before you depart.
What you can and cannot do with an ETA
An ETA allows you to:
- Stay in the UK for up to six months for tourism, visiting family and friends, business, or short-term study
- Transit through a UK airport if you will pass through border control
However, it does not allow you to:
- Work (unless on a Creative Worker visa concession or permitted paid engagement)
- Claim public funds
- Stay for more than six months
- Marry or register a civil partnership (for which a Marriage Visitor visa is required)
The benefits of the ETA
The introduction of the ETA is designed to streamline the travel process for millions of visitors to the UK while boosting border security. By digitising immigration controls, the UK government hopes to enhance safety, improve the flow of legitimate travellers, and reduce waiting times at the border.
The following is the complete list of countries whose citizens must apply for an ETA before travelling to the UK. Other nationalities cannot get an ETA, and need to apply for a UK visa instead:
- Andorra
- Austria
- Belgium
- Bulgaria
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Czechia
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Monaco
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania
- San Marino
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Vatican City
Image: The UK has made it mandatory for EU citizens to apply for an ETA before they travel to the UK. Credit: Marta Branco
