The UK government is introducing a digital permit, Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), for millions of USA, Canada, and Australia visitors who will need one to travel to the UK from 7 January 2025.
Some nationalities – Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates – can apply for an ETA now. And most nationals from European countries will be required to apply to travel after 25 March 2025.
The application process involves a £10 fee, a valid passport, and personal and trip-related information. Approval should come within three business days or longer if there are complications. Everyone will need one including children and babies.
It’s best to apply well in advance for trips you are planning.
Once approved, the ETA will be electronically linked to the traveller’s passport automatically so you won’t need to print out anything. The ETA remains valid for two years or less if your passport expires before then. During that time multiple visits will be allowed.
To apply you will need to upload a photo or scan of your passport and your face. You do not need to enter your travel details.
The ETA low down
You CAN get an ETA instead of a visa if you are:
- coming to the UK for up to 6 months for tourism, visiting family and friends, business or short-term study
- coming to the UK for up to 3 months on the Creative Worker visa concession
- coming to the UK for a permitted paid engagement
- transiting through the UK – including if you are not going through UK border control
- If you are coming to the UK for another reason, check if you need a visa instead.
The ETA does not allow you to
- do paid or unpaid work for a UK company or as a self-employed person, unless you are doing a permitted paid engagement or event or work on the Creative Worker visa concession
- claim public funds (benefits)
- live in the UK through frequent or successive visits
- marry or register a civil partnership, or give notice of marriage or civil partnership – you will need to apply for a Marriage Visitor visa
How to apply for an ETA
To apply you will need to download the ETA app
Download ETA app from Play Google
Download ETA app from the App Store
Who does not need an ETA?
You do not need an ETA if any of these apply to you if:
- you have a visa
- you have permission to live, work or study in the UK (including settled or pre-settled status or right of abode)
- you are a British or Irish citizen
- you are travelling with a British Overseas Territories citizen passport
- you live in Ireland and you are travelling from Ireland, Guernsey, Jersey or the Isle of Man
MORE INFORMATION AVAILABLE HERE