UK Introduces Mandatory Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for Visitors
From Wednesday, European nationals can apply for a digital travel permit to enter the United Kingdom, as part of the country’s efforts to digitise its borders.
The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme, similar to the US ESTA system, will become mandatory for European visitors from April 2, 2025. This follows its earlier introduction for US, Canadian, and other visa-exempt travellers in January 2025.
ETA Rollout and Requirements
The UK first launched the ETA system in 2023 for Qatar, later expanding it to include five Gulf nations. In January 2025, it was extended to citizens of around 50 additional countries, including Argentina, South Korea, and New Zealand. By the end of 2024, nearly 1.1 million ETAs had been issued, according to the UK Home Office.
From 1000 GMT on Wednesday, European nationals can apply for the pre-travel pass for short visits. The ETA, valid for two years, allows stays of up to six months and currently costs £10, though this will increase to £16.
Application Process
Travellers can apply for an ETA via a smartphone app or the UK government website. The process includes:
- Providing biographic and biometric data
- Answering background questions
- Receiving a decision automatically within minutes in most cases
Once approved, the ETA is digitally linked to the applicant’s passport.
UK’s Digital Border Strategy
Migration Minister Seema Malhotra stated that digitising immigration procedures is a step toward creating a contactless UK border. She emphasized that expanding ETA globally strengthens security through technology and innovation.
Transit Rules and Airport Impact
Passengers transiting airside—without crossing the UK border—are exempt from the ETA requirement. This exemption, secured after concerns from Heathrow Airport, aims to prevent a drop in passenger traffic.
In 2024, Heathrow handled 84 million passengers, with one-third traveling from the EU. While Heathrow and Manchester airports offer airside transit facilities, travellers passing through Gatwick, Stansted, and other UK airports will need an ETA since they must clear border security.
ETA and European Travel
The UK’s ETA mirrors the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), which will require visa-exempt nationals to obtain pre-travel approval for trips to 30 European countries, including France and Germany. However, the ETIAS launch has been delayed and is not expected to start before mid-2025.
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