Starting April 2, 2025, all European Union (EU) passport holders, including children and babies, must possess an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to enter the United Kingdom. This new requirement marks a major shift in UK border policy, as confirmed by the UK Home Office and reported by SchengenTravel.News.
Since March 5, 2025, EU nationals have been eligible to apply for the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) during a transitional period. Now that the grace period has ended, the ETA is mandatory. Those who arrive at the UK border without a valid ETA will be denied entry.
In this comprehensive guide, we explain everything you need to know about the new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) requirements for EU citizens.
What Is an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)?
The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a digital document that authorizes an individual to travel to the UK. It is crucial to note that the ETA is not a visa. Instead, it simply grants permission to board transport to the UK and to seek entry at the UK border.
Introduced as a replacement for the former Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW) scheme, the ETA applies to travellers from countries that previously did not need a visa for short stays.
According to the UK Home Office, the purpose of the ETA is to:
- Strengthen UK border security
- Prevent immigration abuse
- Streamline the entry process for short-stay visitors
Holders of an ETA are permitted multiple visits to the UK, staying up to six months per visit within a two-year validity period or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.
How to Apply for a UK ETA
Applying for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is designed to be a quick and user-friendly process. There are two primary ways to apply:
1. Through the UK ETA Mobile App
Download the official UK ETA app on your smartphone, available for iOS and Android.
2. Via the Official UK Government Website
Those without smartphone access can apply online through the official UK government ETA portal.
Documents and information required:
- Valid passport details
- Recent photograph
- Contact information
- Payment for the application fee
- Responses to a series of security and eligibility questions
Once the application is submitted, most applicants receive an email decision within minutes. However, travellers are advised to apply at least three working days before their intended journey to allow sufficient processing time.
Key Details About the ETA Application Process
- Group Applications: Each traveller must submit an individual ETA application, even if traveling in a group.
- Multiple Applications: Family members and groups can apply together but should expect that decisions might arrive at different times.
- Traveling While Awaiting ETA: You must have an approved ETA before traveling to the UK; otherwise, you risk being denied boarding or entry.
What Happens If Your ETA Application Is Refused?
Applicants who are refused an ETA will receive a detailed explanation. Importantly, there is no right to appeal an ETA refusal. If denied, individuals must apply for a full UK visa to seek entry.
If refused, the next steps involve:
- Understanding the reason for refusal
- Gathering additional supporting documentation if reapplying
- Applying for a different visa category via the UK Visa and Immigration system
How Much Does a UK ETA Cost?
Currently, the cost for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is £10 (€12). However, from April 9, 2025, the UK government will increase the ETA fee to £16 (€19).
This fee adjustment aims to reduce reliance on taxpayer funding for the migration and border management systems.
Travelers planning trips later in 2025 or beyond should budget accordingly for this change.
Who Is Exempt from the UK ETA Requirement?
Certain travelers are not required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), including:
- Holders of a valid UK visa
- Individuals with permission to live, work, or study in the UK
- British and Irish citizens
- British Overseas Territories citizens
- British Nationals (Overseas)
- Residents of Ireland traveling from Ireland, Guernsey, Jersey, or the Isle of Man
- Travelers transiting through a UK airport without passing through border control
- French schoolchildren traveling under the France-UK school trip scheme
- Individuals exempt from UK immigration control
If you fall under one of these categories, you do not need to apply for an ETA to enter the United Kingdom.
Important Reminders for EU Nationals
- Start early: Apply for your ETA well ahead of your travel date.
- Keep documents handy: Ensure your passport is valid for the duration of your intended stay.
- Digital linkage: Your ETA will be electronically linked to your passport, so there’s no physical document to carry.
- No paper ETA required: UK Border Force agents will verify your ETA through your passport upon arrival.
Official statistics on the number of approved ETA applications from EU citizens are expected to be released later this month, but early indications suggest high levels of compliance and awareness among travellers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long before my trip should I apply for an ETA?
It is recommended to apply at least three working days before your intended travel date to ensure sufficient processing time.
2. Can I travel to the UK without an ETA if I have applied but haven’t received a decision?
No, you must have an approved Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) linked to your passport before traveling to the UK.
3. Will my children need their own ETA?
Yes, every traveller, including babies and children, must have their own approved ETA before traveling to the UK.
