Starting January 8th 2015, the UK will roll out its new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system—a mandatory digital registration for travellers who previously did not require a visa to visit the country.
The ETA is designed for short visits to the UK (up to six months) for purposes such as tourism, business, or certain other activities like short-term study and permitted paid engagements.
What is the ETA?
The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a pre-travel clearance system that ensures travellers are authorised to enter the UK before departure. Similar to the United States’ ESTA, it requires applicants to complete a paid, security-screened authorisation process ahead of their journey.
Previously, visa-exempt travellers could board a flight and present themselves at passport control upon arrival. With the ETA, travellers must obtain approval in advance.
It costs £10 to apply. Everyone travelling needs to get an ETA, including babies and children. You can apply for other people.
You cannot get a refund after you apply.
Who Needs an ETA?
The new ETA system applies to travellers from countries whose citizens currently do not need a visa to enter the UK.
• Initial Rollout: The system was first introduced in 2024 for nationals of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.
• January 8, 2025: Travelers from 48 additional countries—including the US, Canada, and Australia—will also require an ETA.
• April 2, 2025: EU citizens (including San Marino passport holders) will need an ETA starting this date.
Citizens of these countries who already reside in the UK do not need an ETA.
Who is Exempt?
You do not need an ETA if any of these apply to you:
- if you have a visa
- you have permission to live, work or study in the UK (including settled or pre-settled status o right of abode)
- you are a British or Irish citizen
- you are travelling with a British Overseas Territories citizen passport
- you live in Ireland and you are travelling from Ireland, Guernsey, Jersey or the Isle of Man
Applying for an ETA
The fastest way to apply is by using the UK ETA app.
You can read the guide on using the UK ETA app.
If you cannot use the app, you can apply online.
If you are applying for someone else who is not with you, you should apply online.
You will usually get a decision within 3 working days, but you may get a quicker decision. Occasionally, it may take longer than 3 working days.
You will get an email confirming you have got an ETA. It will be linked to the passport you applied with. Your ETA lasts for 2 years. You can travel to the UK as many times as you want during that time. If you get a new passport during this time, you will need to reapply for an ETA.
For a detailed list of countries requiring an ETA and further guidance, visit the government’s official website.
