New ETA Requirement for the UK Starts April 2: Starting April 2, 2025, the United Kingdom will officially roll out the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system — a new entry requirement for short-term visitors from visa-exempt countries. If you’re planning a holiday, business trip, or short visit to the UK, this rule will likely apply to you. Understanding the ETA system is crucial to avoid delays at the airport or even being denied boarding.
Whether you’re jetting off to see Big Ben, attending a conference in Manchester, spending the summer at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, or exploring the scenic beauty of the Lake District, this comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know to prepare.
New ETA Requirement for the UK Starts April 2
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Launch Date | April 2, 2025 |
| Application Opening | March 5, 2025 |
| Who Needs an ETA | Visitors from visa-free countries (e.g., EU, EEA, Switzerland; others phased in later in 2025) |
| Application Cost | £10 until April 9, 2025; £16 thereafter |
| ETA Validity Period | 2 years or until the linked passport expires, whichever is earlier |
| Maximum Stay Per Visit | Up to 6 months |
| Application Method | Online via gov.uk or through the official UK ETA mobile app |
| ETA Purpose | Tourism, family visits, business meetings, short-term education, medical treatment |
| Official Info Website | UK ETA Info |
The UK’s Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system, launching April 2, 2025, is a significant step toward a smarter, safer, and more efficient border system. While it adds a new layer of responsibility for travelers, it’s designed to be easy to understand and quick to complete.
Apply early, double-check your documents, and use official channels to stay informed. For complete guidance, visit the official UK ETA portal to start your application and ensure you’re travel-ready.
What Is the UK ETA and Why Is It Being Introduced?
The Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is a digital travel clearance required for visa-exempt nationals traveling to the UK for short stays. The ETA allows UK authorities to conduct pre-arrival checks on travelers, improving border security and making travel more predictable and efficient.
This new system aligns the UK with countries like the United States (ESTA), Canada (eTA), and Australia (ETA), all of which use similar mechanisms to screen inbound travelers.
The ETA is part of the UK’s larger initiative to digitize borders by 2026, improving data collection, increasing national security, and modernizing the traveler experience.
Who Needs an ETA for the UK?
From April 2, 2025, travelers from select visa-exempt countries must apply for an ETA before traveling to the UK.
You must apply for an ETA if you are:
- A citizen of any European Union (EU) country
- A national of an EEA country (Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein)
- A national of Switzerland, San Marino, or Vatican City
- Citizens of countries such as Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and others — phased in later in 2025
The list of countries requiring ETAs will expand, so travelers should check the official ETA website regularly.
You do not need an ETA if you are:
- A UK or Irish citizen
- A holder of a valid UK visa or residence permit
- A traveler staying airside during transit, subject to exemptions by nationality and travel conditions
Even travelers just connecting through the UK should confirm whether their transit qualifies for an exemption.
New ETA Requirement for the UK Starts April 2 Apply for a UK ETA
The UK ETA application process is designed to be simple, fast, and user-friendly. Everything is done digitally, and the system is available on both desktop and mobile platforms.
New ETA Requirement for the UK Starts April 2 Guide to Applying
1. Visit the Official Application Portal
Access the UK ETA application portal or download the official UK ETA app.
2. Complete the Online Application Form
You’ll need to provide:
- Full legal name (exactly as shown on your passport)
- Passport number, issue and expiry dates
- Date of birth, nationality, and gender
- Email address and contact number
- Travel details such as entry port and intended dates
3. Upload Required Documents
- A recent passport-style digital photo
- A scanned copy of the passport’s photo page
4. Answer Security and Eligibility Questions
These may cover:
- Criminal history or immigration violations
- Health declarations
- Previous refusals for visas or entry to other countries
5. Pay the ETA Fee
- £10 if submitted before April 9, 2025
- £16 from April 9, 2025 onward
- Payment can be made via debit/credit cards or accepted digital wallets
6. Submit Your Application
- Most applications are processed in a few hours
- Apply at least 72 hours before your departure to avoid last-minute issues
7. Receive Confirmation
- You’ll receive a confirmation email upon approval
- No need to print anything — the ETA is electronically linked to your passport
How Long Is the ETA Valid and What Can You Use It For?
Once issued, your ETA remains valid for:
- Two years, or
- Until your passport expires (whichever comes first)
You can use your ETA for:
- Tourism and sightseeing
- Visiting family or friends
- Short-term business trips
- Medical treatment
- Short-term educational courses (up to 6 months)
You cannot:
- Work or look for a job
- Reside long-term or change immigration status in the UK
- Stay beyond six months in one visit
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Real-Life Scenarios: Who Needs an ETA and Who Doesn’t?
Scenario 1: A French Tourist Visiting London
Lucie, from Paris, is spending 10 days in London with friends. Though she doesn’t need a visa, she must apply for an ETA before traveling.
Scenario 2: A Canadian on a Business Trip
Daniel, from Toronto, is attending a trade fair in Birmingham. As a Canadian passport holder, he’ll need an ETA once his country is added to the requirement list in 2025.
Scenario 3: An Irish Citizen on a Weekend Trip
Connor, an Irish national from Dublin, plans to catch a Liverpool football match. Thanks to the Common Travel Area, he is exempt from ETA requirements.
Why You Should Apply Early
Travel plans can change fast — but ETA processing can take time. Even though most applications are approved quickly, apply early to avoid:
- Unexpected delays due to document errors
- Payment issues or system errors
- Last-minute denials requiring a visa application
Our advice: treat the ETA like booking your flight or hotel — get it done early, then relax.
ETA vs. Visa: What’s the Difference?
| Feature | ETA | Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Who needs it? | Travelers from visa-exempt countries | Travelers from countries requiring visas |
| Application time | Usually minutes to hours | May take days to weeks |
| Cost | £10–£16 | Varies widely by visa type |
| Length of stay | Up to 6 months | Varies by visa type |
| Can you work? | ❌ No | ✅ Yes (with appropriate visa) |
| Renewable? | No — reapply after expiration | Some visas may be extended or switched |
| Purpose | Tourism, business, short visits | Work, study, settlement, family reunification, etc. |
FAQs
Q1: Do infants and children need an ETA?
Yes, all travelers — including babies and young children — must have their own ETA.
Q2: Can I apply for someone else?
Yes. Parents, guardians, or travel agents can apply on behalf of others.
Q3: What if I’m denied an ETA?
You’ll receive an explanation via email. In most cases, you can then apply for a standard UK visa.
Q4: Can I change my ETA after submission?
No. If you’ve made a mistake or your passport details change, you must submit a new application and pay the fee again.
Q5: Is the ETA a visa?
No. The ETA is not a visa and doesn’t grant the right to work, study long-term, or settle in the UK.
