Europeans can now apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to enter the UK
Effective 5 March 2025, eligible Europeans can apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) and will need one to travel to the UK from Wednesday 2 April 2025.
This expansion follows the successful rollout of ETAs to all eligible non-European nationals last year, which includes visitors from the USA, Canada and Australia who now need an ETA to travel. Almost 1.1 million visitors have been issued with ETAs and will benefit from smoother, easier travel to the UK for short trips in the future.
Minister for Migration and Citizenship, Seema Malhotra, said: “Securing our borders is a foundation of the UK government’s Plan for Change and by digitising the immigration system we are paving the way for a contactless UK border, ensuring visitors enjoy a seamless travel experience in the future.
Expanding ETA worldwide cements our commitment to enhance security through technology and innovation.”
What is an ETA?
An ETA is an advance permission to travel to or transit through the UK for those who do not currently require a visa, or do not have a UK immigration status. The scheme forms part of the UK government’s plans to strengthen and digitise the UK border and immigration system.
Once fully implemented, the ETA scheme will broadly apply to all nationalities who do not require a visa for short stays and who do not have any other UK immigration status prior to travelling to the UK. This includes European nationals.
An ETA is linked to the individual’s passport. The scheme enables the government to perform robust security checks on travellers before they begin their journey to the UK, helping to prevent abuse of the immigration system.
The ETA application process
Applying for an ETA is quick and simple through the UK ETA app and, with the vast majority of applicants currently receiving a decision automatically in minutes, spontaneous trips to the UK should still be possible. Prospective visitors can also apply on GOV.UK if they do not have access to a smartphone.
Applicants provide their biographic and biometric details and answer questions on suitability and criminality. Once an applicant has successfully applied, their ETA is digitally linked to their passport.
While most applications are approved quickly, it is still recommended to allow up to three working days to account for the small number of cases that require additional review.
An ETA currently costs £10 and allows multiple visits to the UK of up to six months over a two-year period, or until the holder’s passport expires – whichever is sooner.
It is important to note that an ETA is not a visa, it is a digital permission to travel. There is no right to appeal against the decision to refuse an ETA, so those deemed unsuitable will be able to apply for a visit visa if they still wish to travel to the UK. This will give a more detailed consideration of someone’s circumstances.
Next steps
The UK government continues to work closely with the travel industry, including major airline, maritime and rail carriers, to ensure the smooth implementation of these new digital travel requirements.
Smith Stone Walters will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates when available. To keep up to date with the latest developments in UK immigration, please sign up to our free news service. Or to speak to an immigration advisor, please contact us today.
