Starting January 8, 2025, travellers from non-EU countries who do not require a visa to enter the UK must complete a pre-travel Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). The introduction of the ETA marks a significant shift in UK travel policy as part of global trends toward stricter entry protocols.
While travellers were spared the bureaucratic burden of new regulations in 2024, 2025 is shaping to be a year of change. Alongside the European Union’s long-anticipated ETIAS visa waiver, which will launch in 2025, the UK’s ETA system is expected to set a new precedent.
The United Kingdom requires all non-visa holders to complete the electronic pre-travel clearance process known as the Electronic Travel Authority (ETA). Travellers will now be required to get security clearance before their trip, similar to the US-based Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA).
In the past, passengers could simply present themselves at the United Kingdom's passport control upon landing. However, per the new system, they must now obtain pre-authorisation to enter the U.K.
The ETA is required for short-term visits to the UK, typically up to six months, for purposes such as tourism, business travel, short-term studies, and specific paid engagements.
The following nationalities can apply for ETA now:
These countries do not need an ETA to visit the UK before January 7, 2025. The list of these countries is:
Beginning March 5, 2025, people from the following countries (and nearby territories) can apply for an ETA and travel to the UK with one starting April 2, 2025.
Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and Vatican City.
No, the ETA is a visa waiver, not a visa. Travellers requiring a visa to enter the UK must continue applying for a visa and do not need an ETA.
Immigration policies frequently operate on a reciprocal basis. In 2009, the United States implemented its ESTA system, which prompted numerous other nations to implement comparable programs. The ETA in the United Kingdom is consistent with contemporary immigration and security trends.
The online application takes about 20 minutes and must be completed in a single session. It cannot be saved and returned later.
However, having an ETA does not guarantee entry. Travellers must still pass through border control, where Border Force officials make the final decision.
Generally, an ETA is required, even if you only pass through the UK airport for a connecting aircraft. This system is comparable to the ESTA system in the United States. You will likely be denied boarding or entry into the transit area without an approved ETA.
The UK’s ETA system enhances travel security and streamlines immigration. Applying in advance ensures a smooth journey.
Copyright © 2025 united-kingdom-visa.com