07 March 2025

Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for the United Kingdom

From 2025, all non-visa visitors must obtain an electronic permit to enter the country

The British government is accelerating the process of digitizing borders and the immigration system, introducing measures for a more effective and secure control of entry into the United Kingdom. As of April 2025, anyone wishing to travel to the UK (except British and Irish citizens) must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) or eVisa in advance.

Dates for the introduction of the ETA system

From 27 November 2024, eligible non-EU nationals were able to start applying for the ETA, which is mandatory for travel from 8 January 2025.
From 5 March 2025, the system is also extended to eligible European citizens, who must be in possession of an ETA to travel to the UK from 2 April 2025.

How does the ETA work and who needs to apply for it?

The Electronic Travel Authorization is digitally linked to the traveler's passport and allows the UK authorities to carry out preventive security checks before entering the country, helping to prevent abuses in the immigration system.

Cost: £10
Validity: multiple journeys for up to 6 months at a time, for a period of 2 years or until the passport expires (whichever comes first).

Visitors from Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries are already subject to this requirement to travel to the UK.

The application process is available via the UK ETA app (issued within 3 working days, from the time of application, so at least 3 days before travel). All the details and eligibility criteria can be found on the official GOV.UK website.

The introduction of the ETA follows the approach already taken by other countries, including the United States and Australia, to strengthen border security.

Switching to eVisas: Goodbye to paper documents

Citizens who need a visa to work, study, or reside in the UK receive an eVisa, which provides digital proof of their immigration status. This innovation eliminates the need for physical documents, reducing the risk of loss, theft or forgery.

What changes for UK residents?

Those who hold a biometric residence permit (BRP) or a paper visa with stamps and stickers are invited to create an online account to access their eVisa. Most BRPs expired on December 31, 2024.
The UK government has allocated funds to support the most vulnerable in switching to digital documents.

Cooperation with transport companies

To ensure a smooth transition, the UK is working with international airlines, shipping and rail companies to integrate the digital system and optimise travel document control.

Edited by the Editorial staff, Avion Tourism Magazine

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