What You Need to Know About the UK’s New ETA System in 2025
As 2025 begins, travelers to the United Kingdom will face a new requirement: the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). Designed to streamline border security, the ETA pre-clears travelers before their journey, marking a significant shift in how non-visa travelers enter the UK. Here’s everything you need to know about this new system.
Who needs an ETA?
Starting January 8, 2025, travelers from visa-free countries—including the United States, Canada, and Australia—will need an ETA to enter the UK. EU citizens will follow suit on April 2, 2025. The ETA applies to short visits of less than six months for purposes like tourism, business, or short-term study.
Notably, UK residents with citizenship from these countries and travelers requiring a visa to enter the UK are exempt from the ETA requirement. However, every other traveler, including children and infants, must obtain their own ETA.
Is it a visa?
The ETA is not a visa but a visa waiver, similar to the U.S. ESTA program. It allows travelers to pre-register for entry while still requiring them to pass through border control upon arrival. Those who need a visa to enter the UK will not need to apply for an ETA in addition to their visa.
How to apply for an ETA
The process is straightforward and costs £10 (about $12.50). Applications can be completed online or via official iPhone and Android apps, which boast processing times as quick as 10 minutes. Applicants will need to provide a passport photo, a selfie for verification, and details about their travel plans.
It’s essential to apply through official UK government channels to avoid unnecessary fees or data security risks from third-party websites. While most decisions are issued within three days, travelers can still enter the UK if their application is pending, provided they applied before departure.
How long is an ETA valid?
An ETA remains valid for two years and allows multiple entries into the UK during that period. However, since the authorization is digitally linked to your passport, a new passport will render the ETA invalid, requiring a new application.
Does the ETA apply to transit travelers?
Yes, all travelers transiting through the UK will need an ETA, even if they are simply connecting to another destination. Entry to the transit area requires authorization, aligning with similar policies in countries like the United States.
Can families apply together?
Each traveler, regardless of age, must have their own ETA. However, it is possible to apply on behalf of someone else, such as a child or infant.
Does an ETA allow unlimited stays?
No, the ETA is only for short stays of up to six months. It does not grant extended residency or work rights within the UK.
Does the ETA cover Europe too?
No, the ETA is exclusively for the UK. Travelers heading to Europe will require a separate authorization under the European Union’s ETIAS program, which is expected to roll out later in 2025.
Conclusion
The UK’s introduction of the ETA system marks a new era for international travel. By requiring pre-clearance for non-visa travelers, the UK aims to enhance security while maintaining efficiency at its borders. Travelers are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the application process to ensure a smooth entry experience in 2025 and beyond.