The United Kingdom will begin enforcing a new entry requirement for European travelers starting April 2, 2025. Under the new rule, visitors from the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), and Switzerland will be required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before traveling to the UK. Irish citizens are exempt from this requirement.
The ETA is a digital travel permit, distinct from a visa, that allows individuals to visit the UK for short stays of up to six months for purposes such as tourism, business, and short-term study. The authorization will be valid for two years or until the traveler’s passport expires. All visitors, including minors, will be required to apply for an individual ETA before departure.
Applications for the ETA opened on March 5, 2025, and can be completed online. Travelers must provide personal details, answer security questions, and upload a passport scan along with a photograph. The application fee is £10, and while most requests are processed within hours, applicants are advised to apply well in advance to avoid delays.
The introduction of the ETA system is part of the UK’s broader post-Brexit border security measures, aligning with similar programs in other countries, such as the United States’ ESTA. The UK government has encouraged travelers to check official sources for detailed information on the new requirement before making travel plans.
