EU residents now required to secure paid approval for UK entry

As of April 2, citizens of the European Union join individuals from 48 nations worldwide who must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation to access the United Kingdom. In the past, EU travelers could board a flight and simply show their passports upon arrival. Now, those exempt from needing a visa to enter the UK must secure prior clearance through a new online registration system. Here’s an overview of the updated regulations.

Who needs an ETA?

Anyone not requiring a visa to journey to the UK must acquire an ETA an “electronic travel authorization” that pre-approves entry before departure. This mirrors the United States’ ESTA a compulsory, fee-based permit with security vetting completed ahead of time.

The program launched for Gulf Cooperation Council citizens in 2024 and later expanded to other non-European visitors including the six million annual travelers from the US, Canada, and Australia. The complete roster of 48 countries needing an ETA is available here.

Since January 8, travelers from these nations have needed an ETA to enter the UK. For EU citizens, this requirement begins on April 2, 2025.

How do I obtain one?

The current fee is a non-refundable £10 (approximately $12.50), applied for via the official app on the UK government website or directly online. This cost will rise to £16 (about $20) on April 9.

The apps available for iPhone and Android promise swift processing, often within 10 minutes. Opt for official channels to apply, as third-party sites may impose additional charges and compromise data security.

You’ll need to submit a passport photo, capture and upload a self-portrait during the process, and respond to questions about your travel intentions. The online application takes roughly 20 minutes and must be completed in one session no saving midway is possible.

Approval typically arrives within three days, though delays may occur, per government advisories. Urgent travelers may head to the UK while awaiting a decision, provided the application is submitted beforehand.

Be aware that an ETA doesn’t assure entry. Passport control and Border Force officers retain authority to grant or deny admission.

How long will it remain valid?

The authorization lasts two years, permitting multiple visits. However, it’s tied digitally to your passport if you renew your passport within that period, the ETA becomes void, necessitating a fresh application.

Can families share an ETA?

Every individual entering the UK, including infants, requires a personal ETA. Applications can, however, be submitted on behalf of others.

Does this allow unlimited stays?

The ETA supports brief visits of up to six months only.

I’m just passing through the UK. Do I still need an ETA?

All who step onto UK territory, even briefly for a connecting flight, must possess an ETA. (This aligns with the US requirement of an ESTA for transiting passengers.) Without it, access to the transit zone via passport control is barred.

Does this include entry to Europe?

For European travel, you’ll need an ETIAS the EU’s travel waiver, long-delayed but tentatively set to launch in 2025. Watch for updates as the timeline nears.