As of April 2025, Portuguese citizens wishing to travel to the UK will have to obtain a prior authorization and pay a fee. The measure is already in force and promises to generate contestation among frequent travelers.
New requirement to enter the United Kingdom
With the new measure, which comes into force on 2 April, any citizen of the European Union, including the Portuguese, needs to request an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to enter the United Kingdom. The order can be made online or through an application available to mobile devices.
To obtain this authorization, it is necessary to provide personal and biometric data, as well as pay a fee. The initial cost is 10 pounds (about 12 euros), but from April 9 rises to 16 pounds (approximately 19 euros).
ETA is valid for two years and allows multiple entries in the country as long as no stay exceeds six months. If the passport is changed, you will need to submit a new order.
Processing time and possible delays
The British government recommends that travelers make the request of ETA in advance, as approval may take up to three business days. However, in some cases, waiting time may be superior.
Even if the authorization is granted, the entry into the UK is not guaranteed. Border authorities may prevent access if they consider that the traveler poses any risk, namely due to criminal record.
Also mandatory authorization for children
The requirement applies to all travelers, including babies and children, which has generated criticism between families planning to visit the country. The additional cost and bureaucratic process make trips more expensive and less affordable.
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Attention to fraud and excessive charges
The British government warns that ETA should be requested only through official channels, as there are companies and websites that offer service at much higher prices. In some cases, the amounts charged are ten times higher than the actual amount.
To avoid unnecessary expenses, travelers must ensure that they use only official means to place the order.
Who doesn’t need a step?
Not all travelers are subject to this requirement. They are exempt:
- People who have a visa for the UK;
- Who is allowed to reside, study or work in the country;
- Transit passengers who do not need to undergo border control;
- British and Irish citizens;
- Who has a passport of British overseas territories;
- Ireland residents who travel directly from Ireland, Guernsey, Jersey or Man of Man.
United Kingdom follows model from other countries
As with, the ETA system was inspired by existing processes in countries such as the United States, Canada and Australia. The European Union intends to introduce a similar mechanism, called Etias, but there is no definite date for its implementation.
The requirement of ETA adds more bureaucracy and costs to travel to the UK, complicating the mobility of European citizens. For the Portuguese, who could previously travel without obstacles, this is another direct consequence of Brexit.
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