From this Wednesday (2), citizens of the European Union must have electronic travel authorization (ETA) to enter the UK. Europeans join travelers from 48 countries around the world who also need the document.
Previously, the block travelers could board a plane and simply present themselves in passport control when landing. Now travelers who do not need a visa to enter the UK must obtain pre-viagem authorization through the new digital registration scheme.
See what you need to know about the new rules.
Who needs a step?
Anyone who doesn’t need a visa to travel to the UK will need one. This is the equivalent in the United Kingdom of the United States – a mandatory authorization and paid to travel, with security release made in advance.
The scheme debuted for Gulf Cooperation Council citizens in 2024 and was later implemented to other non -European travelers – including the six million US, Canada and Australia travelers entering the United Kingdom each year.
Travelers of these countries have to have a step to enter the United Kingdom since January 8. The measure began to apply for citizens of the European Union will need on April 2, 2025.
Citizens of these countries who already reside in the UK do not need an ETA.
The scheme is for “short” visits to less than six months for tourism and business. There are some other ETA categories, including for short -term study and allowed paid commitments. They are listed on the UK government website.
Is it a visa?
Although some people refer to him as one, it is actually a visa exemption. Travelers whose citizenship means they need a visa to enter the UK will still need to request a visa. They will not, however, need to get the ETA besides.
Countries work with reciprocity when it comes to immigration. When the United States introduced their visa exemption in 2009, it was inevitable that countries now subject to it would introduce their own similar schemes.
How do I get one?
The current cost is £ 10 not reimbursable about $ 73), and you can apply through the official application listed on the UK government website or directly online. The rate will increase to £ 16 (about R $ 113.00) on April 9.
Applications – for iPhone and Android – boast of being faster, with 10 -minute processing times. Be sure to apply through official channels instead of third party websites, which may charge extra fees and are less likely to deal with your data safely.
You will need to send a photo of your passport, scan and photograph yourself while subscribing, send the photo and answer multiple questions about your plans. Online registration takes about 20 minutes and you must complete the process at once-there is no chance of saving as you advance.
A decision will usually be given in three days, although the government warns that it can take longer. You are allowed to travel to the UK while waiting for your decision if you need to visit urgently; However, you must have applied before travel.
Note that having an ETA does not guarantee entry into the UK. You still need to go through passport control and Border Force agents still have the final word about if you can enter the country.
How long will it be valid?
The validity lasts two years and multiple entries – so you can visit as many times as you like. However, note that it will be digitally linked to your passport – so if you get a new passport during those two years, it will no longer be valid and you should request a new one.
Can families get a set?
All who enter the UK need their own ETA, including children and even babies. But you can make the request in the name of someone else.
Does that mean I can stay as long as I want?
ETA is intended for short stays of up to six months.
I am only in transit by the UK. I still need the ETA?
Everyone who enters British soil, even for a quick connection, must have a ETA. You will not be able to go through passport control to the traffic area without one.
Does this also entitle me to enter Europe?
– The travel exemption from the European Union, which has been postponed, but is scheduled to start at some time in 2025. Stay tuned for more details as the countdown is approaching.
