With effect from 8 January 2025, non-European visitors to the UK from visa-exempt countries will now require an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).
This is the latest phase in the roll out of the UK’s new ETA scheme, which is already operational for visiting nationals of countries including the UAE and Qatar. The final implementation phase will see European visitors having to obtain an ETA to arrive into the UK from 2 April 2025.
Travellers without an ETA may face fines and entry denial. However, individuals already holding a visa, British or Irish citizens, or those with UK residency status are exempt from the requirement.
Travellers to the UK are advised to check their eligibility under the ETA scheme, and where required to ensure they secure an ETA in advance of travel to avoid issues when attempting to enter or transit through the UK.
What is the UK ETA?
The ETA is a digital travel permit required for eligible travellers from visa-exempt countries who intend to visit or transit through the UK. It authorises travel but is not a visa and does not guarantee entry into the country. The permit aligns the UK with systems like the US ESTA and Australia’s ETA, focusing on border security and traveller pre-screening.
The ETA costs £10 and is valid for two years, allowing multiple visits of up to six months each.
Applications can be made online or via the UK ETA app, with decisions typically provided within three days.
Travellers will need to submit biographic, biometric, and contact information and answer a short set of questions. The ETA will be digitally linked to the applicant’s passport, ensuring a seamless travel process.
UK Entry Requirements from 8 January 2025
From 8 January 2025, non-European visa-exempt travellers will require an ETA to visit the UK. This includes citizens from countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia and Japan. The change also applies to transit passengers as well as those visiting the country.
UK Entry Requirements from 2 April 2025
For European visa-exempt travellers, the requirement to apply for an ETA begins later. Applications open on 5 March 2025, and from 2 April 2025, citizens of European nations including Germany, France and Italy must hold an ETA to travel to the UK as visitors or for transit.
Nationalities Requiring ETA for the UK
| Nationalities Requiring ETA to Enter or Transit the UK | |
|---|---|
| From 15 November 2023 | Qatar |
| From 22 February 2024 | Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates. |
| From 8 January 2025 | Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Australia, The Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Botswana, Brazil, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Costa Rica, Grenada, Guatemala, Guyana, Hong Kong SAR, Israel, Japan, Kiribati, Macao SAR, Malaysia, Maldives, Marshall Islands, Mauritius, Mexico, Federated States of Micronesia, Nauru, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Palau, Panama, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, Peru, Samoa, Seychelles, Singapore, Solomon Islands, South Korea, St Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Taiwan (with eligible passport), Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Tuvalu, United States, Uruguay. |
| From 2 April 2025 | 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. |
Who Does Not Need an ETA?
British and Irish citizens, people with existing UK visas or permissions, and those travelling from within the Common Travel Area (Ireland, Guernsey, Jersey, or the Isle of Man) are exempt. However, residents of Ireland with non-Irish citizenship may need an ETA when travelling from outside the Common Travel Area.
If your ETA application is refused
There is no appeal process for a denied ETA. However, you can reapply if your circumstances change or if you believe the refusal was based on incorrect information. Ensure you review your application carefully and ensure all information is accurate before reapplying. Alternatively, you may need to apply for a visa if you still wish to travel to the UK. This will necessarily incur longer leadtimes and higher costs than an ETA. Our UK immigration advisers can provide guidance on your options and circumstances in light of the new UK entry requirements.
Need assistance?
Travellers should prepare for the new system by checking their eligibility and applying for an ETA well in advance of travel. If you are unsure about your eligibility for an ETA or to discuss visa options, contact us.
FAQs
What is the UK ETA?
The UK ETA is an Electronic Travel Authorisation that allows visa-exempt travellers to visit the UK for tourism, business, or short stays. It is a digital permit linked to your passport.
Do I need a UK ETA if I have a visa?
No, if you already have a UK visa, you do not need an ETA. The same applies if you have permission to live, work, or study in the UK.
When does the ETA requirement start?
Non-European travellers need an ETA from 8 January 2025. European travelers need one starting 2 April 2025, with applications opening 5 March 2025. Travelers from Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE have required an ETA since November 2024.
How much does the UK ETA cost?
The ETA costs £10 per person and is valid for two years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.
How do I apply for an ETA?
You can apply online via the UK ETA app or the government website. You’ll need a valid passport, an email address, and a credit or debit card for payment. Most applications are processed within three days.
Can I travel to the UK without an ETA?
No, travellers from eligible countries must have an ETA to board their flight to the UK. Failure to obtain one may result in fines or denial of entry.
Is the ETA a visa?
No, the ETA is not a visa. It is a travel authorisation for those who do not need a visa for short stays in the UK.
What happens if my ETA application is denied?
If your application is denied, you will receive the reason for rejection. You can reapply or, if necessary, apply for a visa.
Does the ETA apply to transit passengers?
Yes, even if you are only transiting through the UK, you need an ETA. This ensures enhanced border security and prevents unauthorised entry.
Do children need an ETA?
Yes, all travellers, including children and infants, need an individual ETA linked to their passport.
Who is exempt from the ETA requirement?
British and Irish citizens, as well as travellers with UK visas or permissions, do not need an ETA. Residents of Ireland traveling from within the Common Travel Area are also exempt.
How long can I stay in the UK with an ETA?
The ETA allows visits of up to six months at a time for tourism, business, or short-term study.
Do I need to reapply if my passport changes?
Yes, the ETA is linked to your passport. If you get a new passport, you must apply for a new ETA.
Author
Founder and Managing Director Anne Morris is a fully qualified solicitor and trusted adviser to large corporates through to SMEs, providing strategic immigration and global mobility advice to support employers with UK operations to meet their workforce needs through corporate immigration.
She is a recognised by Legal 500 and Chambers as a legal expert and delivers Board-level advice on business migration and compliance risk management as well as overseeing the firm’s development of new client propositions and delivery of cost and time efficient processing of applications.
Anne is an active public speaker, immigration commentator, and immigration policy contributor and regularly hosts training sessions for employers and HR professionals
