From January 8th, travelers from third countries who do not need a visa to enter the UK will have to complete a pre-travel authorization
If 2024 was the year travelers were spared the introduction of bureaucracy to travel visa-free to Europe, 2025 is the year reality kicks in.
The long-delayed European Union visa waiver is currently on track to be implemented in 2025.
Before that, the UK will introduce its ETA system on January 8th.
ETA, which stands for Electronic Travel Authorization, is a new digital registration system for travelers who do not need a visa to enter the UK.
Whereas before they could board a plane and present themselves at passport control upon landing, travelers will now have to obtain prior travel authorization to fly to the UK.
Here’s what you should know about the new rules.
Who needs an ETA?
Anyone who doesn’t need a visa to travel to the UK will soon need an ETA – an “electronic travel authorization” that authorizes them to enter the country before travelling. This is the UK equivalent of the US ESTA – a mandatory, paid-for travel authorization with a security certificate obtained in advance.
The system launches for Gulf Cooperation Council citizens in 2024, and the next phase is to extend it to other non-European travelers – including the six million travelers from the US, Canada and Australia who enter the UK every year . The complete list of 48 states that require ETA.
Travelers from these countries will need an ETA to enter the UK from January 8th. The only exception is EU citizens, who will need an ETA to enter the UK from 2 April 2025.
Citizens of these countries who already reside in the UK do not need an ETA.
The scheme is intended for “short” visits to the UK, lasting less than six months, for tourism and business purposes. There are a few other ETA categories, including for short-term studies and authorized paid engagements. These categories are listed in .
Is it a visa?
Although some people refer to this authorization as a visa, it is actually a visa exemption. Travelers whose nationality means they need a visa to enter the UK will still need to apply for a visa. (However, they do not need to obtain the ETA in addition).
Countries work on the basis of reciprocity when it comes to immigration. When the United States introduced its ESTA visa waiver in 2009, it was inevitable that countries currently subject to this waiver would introduce their own similar systems.
How can I get one?
The cost is a non-refundable £10 (just over €12), and you can apply through the UK Government, or directly.
The apps – for iPhone and Android – are faster, with processing times of 10 minutes. Make sure you order through official channels rather than through third-party sites, which may charge additional fees and are less likely to process your data securely.
You will need to upload a photo of your passport, scan and photograph yourself as you apply, upload the photo, and answer several questions about your plans. The online registration process takes around 20 minutes and has to be done in one go, there is no possibility of saving.
Normally, the decision is made within three days, but the Government warns that it may take longer. You can travel to the UK while waiting for your decision if you need to visit the country urgently; however, you must make the request before traveling.
Please be aware that having an ETA does not guarantee entry to the UK. You will have to continue going through passport control and Border Force officials continue to have the final say on whether you can enter the country.
How long is it valid for?
It is valid for two years and allows multiple entries, so you can visit the country as many times as you want. However, keep in mind that the card will be digitally linked to your passport, so if you obtain a new passport during those two years, it will no longer be valid and you will have to apply for a new one.
Even passengers transiting the UK, such as at Heathrow Airport, will need an ETA. Chris Ratcliffe/Bloomberg/Getty Images
Can families get a joint ETA?
Everyone entering the UK needs their own ETA, including children and even babies. But you can request the ETA in someone else’s name.
Does this mean I can stay as long as I want?
The ETA is only intended for short-term stays, up to six months.
I’m just passing through the UK. Do I still need the ETA?
All people entering UK soil, even for a quick connection, must have an ETA. (The same applies to all travelers transiting through the US who require an ESTA). You will not be allowed to pass through passport control into the transit area without an ETA.
Does this also allow me to enter Europe?
To enter Europe you will need one – the EU visa waiver, which has been long delayed but is currently scheduled for 2025. Stay tuned for details as the countdown approaches.
