UK to Introduce Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) Requirement Starting March 2025

Starting from March 5, 2025, European travelers will need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before visiting the United Kingdom. This new requirement is part of the UK’s broader initiative to digitize its border and immigration system.

Key Details

  • Implementation Date: The ETA requirement for European visitors begins on April 2, 2025.
  • Application Opening: Europeans can start applying for their ETAs from March 5, 2025.
  • Cost: The ETA will cost £10 (approximately €12 or $13).
  • Validity: It allows multiple entries to the UK for stays of up to six months at a time over a two-year period or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.

Who Needs an ETA?

The ETA requirement applies to visa-exempt travelers, including those from:

  • European Union countries
  • European Economic Area (EEA) countries
  • Switzerland
  • Other visa-exempt nations like the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand

Exemptions

British and Irish citizens, as well as those with valid UK visas or residence permits, do not need to apply for an ETA.

Application Process

Travelers can apply for their ETA through the official UK government website or mobile app. The application will require:

  • A valid biometric passport
  • Travel details
  • An email address
  • A credit or debit card for payment

Purpose and Benefits

The UK government states that the ETA scheme will:

  • Enhance border security
  • Allow for more robust pre-travel checks
  • Help prevent abuse of the immigration system
  • Streamline the entry process for legitimate travelers

Implications for Travelers

This new requirement marks a significant change for European visitors who have previously enjoyed visa-free travel to the UK. It’s crucial for travelers to plan ahead and obtain their ETA before their trip to avoid any issues at the border.

Remember to apply for your ETA well in advance of your travel date, as approval may take up to 72 hours. Failure to obtain an ETA when required could result in being denied entry to the UK or potential fines.

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US Travelers

Starting January 8, 2025, US citizens will need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before traveling to the United Kingdom. This new requirement is part of the UK’s broader initiative to digitize its borders and enhance security measures.

Key Points for US Travelers

  • Implementation Date: US citizens must have an ETA for travel to the UK from January 8, 2025.
  • Application Opening: Applications for US travelers will open on November 27, 2024.
  • Cost: The ETA will cost £10 (approximately $13).
  • Validity: Once approved, the ETA is valid for multiple entries over a two-year period or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
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Bleh. At least it’s a 2 year validity period but still. Bleh.

ETA - wonder what happens on exit if I am in the country when this goes into effect. That’ll be fun. Though since last time I didn’t even go through UK immigration when leaving, who knows?

Similarly, it’s forecast that all travellers who are not EU nationals will need an ETIAS travel authorisation to enter European countries from early 2025:

I suspect it applies to people entering the UK, not exiting.

One would hope but immigration rarely makes sense. lol

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