UK Imposes Online Entry Permit for European Visitors: What Travelers Need to Know

UK Introduces ETA for European Travelers – A New Digital Permit for Hassle-Free Entry. (Image: AFP)

Starting April 2, 2025, European travelers visiting the UK will need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before entry. This new requirement, aimed at enhancing border security and streamlining immigration procedures, marks a significant shift in travel regulations post-Brexit.

If you're planning a trip to the UK, here's everything you need to know about the new online entry permit.

Who Needs an ETA?

The ETA is mandatory for nationals of 30 European countries, including all EU nations except Ireland. It is also required for visitors from several other visa-exempt countries that have recently been added to the scheme. UK residents and individuals with existing UK immigration status are exempt from the requirement.

How to Apply for the UK ETA

Applying for an ETA is a quick and straightforward online process. Travelers can complete their applications via a smartphone app or the official UK government website. To apply, you will need a valid passport, a recent photo, personal and travel details, and a processing fee. The application takes around 10 minutes, and in most cases, a decision is made within minutes. However, authorities recommend applying at least three working days before travel to avoid any delays.

UK ETA Cost and Validity

• Price: £10 (€12) if purchased before April 9, 2025. From April 9 onwards, the fee increases to £16.
• Validity: The ETA is valid for two years and allows multiple short-term visits, each for up to six months.

Why Has the UK Introduced the ETA?

Travelers from Europe now need a digital Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) permit, which UK officials have introduced to boost security and streamline entry processes. The head of the UK's border force, Phil Douglas, stated that this rollout is part of a wider plan to implement the ETA for visitors from around the world. The system aims to speed up entry times and allow officials to pre-screen travelers, checking their immigration history and criminal records before they arrive.

To ensure a smooth transition, there will be a buffer period lasting several months. The ETA has already been introduced for American, Canadian, and other visa-exempt nationals visiting the UK.

Expanding the ETA Scheme

The ETA scheme was first launched in 2023 for Qatari nationals, before being extended to five regional Gulf neighbors. In January 2024, it expanded to around 50 more countries and territories, including Argentina, South Korea, and New Zealand.

By the end of 2024, over 1.1 million visitors had received ETAs, according to the UK Home Office. The ETA is not applicable to UK residents or individuals with an existing UK immigration status.

This new system aligns with the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), a similar permit required for visa-exempt travelers visiting 30 European countries, including France and Germany, though its implementation has been delayed until 2026.

Final Travel Tips

• Apply early to ensure smooth travel plans.
• Check your passport’s validity to avoid complications.
• Stay updated on policy changes, as the UK government may introduce further modifications.

With the UK’s new ETA system now in place, European travelers must factor this requirement into their trip planning. By applying ahead of time and staying informed, you can enjoy a hassle-free visit to the UK.