The UK Home Office has unveiled the timeline for its worldwide rollout of the new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, which will soon apply to millions of international travelers.
Starting on 27 November 2023, citizens from countries outside Europe can apply for the ETA, which will be mandatory for entry into the UK from 8 January 2025. This includes nationals from major countries such as the US, Canada, and Australia. The scheme is part of the UK’s broader effort to digitize its border processes ahead of a planned complete digital transition by 2025.
The ETA system was first introduced in November 2023 for nationals from Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. However, it will soon be expanded to cover Europeans as well. EU nationals will need to apply for an ETA starting on 2 April 2025, with applications opening on 5 March 2025.
Previously, nationals from certain Middle Eastern countries were eligible for the UK’s Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW), which allowed for a six-month stay without a visa. The ETA will now replace the EVW, offering a more affordable and flexible option, as the ETA will be valid for multiple entries.
How to Apply for an ETA
To apply for the ETA, travelers will need to complete an online application form. Most applicants will be able to use a mobile app to submit their details and receive a swift decision on their application. To apply, travelers must provide a valid biometric passport, travel details, an email address, and a payment method (credit or debit card). They will also need to answer some questions related to their eligibility.
The application fee for the ETA will be £10 (around €11.66), and most applicants will receive a decision within 72 hours. It is recommended that travelers apply a few days before their planned departure to allow enough time for approval.
Will I Need a Visa?
The ETA is not a visa, but it grants permission to enter the UK for eligible travelers. Anyone who currently does not need a visa to visit the UK—including US, Canadian, Australian, and European nationals—will need to apply for an ETA. Those who fail to apply before their trip may face fines.
UK and Irish passport holders will not need an ETA, and travelers from countries without a visa-free entry agreement with the UK will still need to apply for the appropriate visa along with an ETA.
The ETA will be valid for either six months or up to two years if you also hold a valid UK visa. This means travelers can use the same ETA for multiple visits within the validity period without needing to reapply.
Why is the ETA Being Introduced?
The ETA is part of the UK’s ongoing efforts to modernize and digitize border processes ahead of the goal to have fully digital borders by 2025. One of the primary aims of the system is to reduce wait times and streamline the entry process for legitimate travelers. Some passengers may be able to use biometric technology, such as facial recognition, to pass through border control without needing to speak to a border officer or use an electronic passport gate.
The UK’s Home Office envisions “contactless corridors” that allow travelers to upload biometric details, such as facial images, before their journey. This technology will help speed up entry and improve the overall efficiency of border operations.
