While 2024 allowed travelers to bypass new travel bureaucracy for visa-free trips to Europe, 2025 brings a change. The EU's ETIAS visa waiver program, though delayed, is expected to launch this year. However, the UK is taking the lead, introducing its Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system on January 8th.
The ETA is a digital registration system for individuals who don't need a visa to enter the UK. Previously, these travelers could simply board a plane and present their passport upon arrival. Now, they'll need pre-authorization before traveling. Here's a breakdown of the new rules.
Who needs an ETA?
Essentially, anyone who doesn't require a visa to visit the UK will need an ETA. This electronic authorization grants pre-clearance for entry before travel, similar to the US ESTA system. It's a mandatory, paid authorization with advance security checks.
The ETA program was initially introduced for Gulf Cooperation Council nationals in 2024. Now, it's being expanded to include other non-European travelers, including the millions of visitors from the US, Canada, and Australia. A complete list of the 48 affected countries is available online.
Travelers from these countries will need an ETA from January 8th. EU citizens are the exception, with their ETA requirement starting on April 2nd, 2025. However, citizens of these countries who are already UK residents are exempt from the ETA.
The ETA applies to short visits to the UK (under six months) for tourism or business purposes. There are also specific ETA categories for short-term study and permitted paid engagements, detailed on the UK government website.
Is it a Visa?
Although sometimes referred to as a visa, the ETA is actually a visa waiver. Those who require a visa to enter the UK will still need to apply for one (but won't need an ETA in addition).
This move reflects a trend of reciprocity in immigration policies. Following the US introduction of the ESTA visa waiver in 2009, it was anticipated that other countries would implement similar systems.
How to obtain an ETA
The ETA costs £10 (approximately $12.50) and is non-refundable. Applications can be submitted through the official app (available for iPhone and Android) or online, via the UK government website.
The app offers faster processing times (around 10 minutes). It's important to apply through official channels to avoid extra fees and potential data security risks associated with third-party websites.
The application process involves uploading a passport photo, scanning and photographing yourself, and answering questions about your travel plans. Online applications take roughly 20 minutes and must be completed in one session—there's no option to save progress.
Decisions are usually provided within three days, although delays are possible. In urgent cases, travel to the UK is permitted while awaiting a decision, provided the application was submitted before travel.
It's crucial to remember that an ETA doesn't guarantee entry into the UK. Border Force officials retain the final say, and passport control procedures still apply.
ETA validity
An ETA is valid for two years and allows multiple entries, enabling frequent visits within that period. Importantly, it's digitally linked to the traveler's passport. Obtaining a new passport invalidates the existing ETA, requiring a new application.
Every individual entering the UK needs their own ETA, including children and infants. However, applications can be submitted on behalf of others.
The ETA is designed for short stays, up to a maximum of six months.
Even those transiting through the UK, including for brief connections, require an ETA. This mirrors the US ESTA requirement for transit passengers. Without an ETA, transit passengers will be denied entry at passport control.
The ETA is specific to the UK. To enter other European countries, travelers will need an ETIAS, the EU's travel waiver program. ETIAS is expected to launch sometime in 2025, with details to be announced closer to the launch date.
