UK Travel Authorization Updates: EVW Replaced by ETA

The United Kingdom has revised its travel authorization system by replacing the long-standing Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW) with the newly introduced Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for selected nationalities. This shift aligns with updated security policies and aims to improve border control while enabling faster and more efficient pre-arrival screening procedures.

Understanding the transition

The United Kingdom replaced the EVW with the ETA for certain nationalities to reinforce border security and ensure more precise assessment of traveler information. This change reflects a shift toward stricter pre-arrival checks and greater control over who enters the country.

The new system adopts advanced verification methods to modernize the travel authorization process. It aims to make entry procedures more secure and efficient for both travelers and border authorities.

Key highlights of the transitions

Aspect.	Details.
Application Method.	Travelers must apply through a more detailed and structured digital process.
Pre-departure Screening.	Security checks are completed before departure, minimizing risks at entry.
Document Requirements.	Additional documents like travel itineraries and biometric data may be needed.
Global Alignment.	The shift reflects global trends toward automated and pre-cleared travel systems.
Focus on Data and Risk.	Increased attention on accurate data submission and risk assessment during application.

What was the Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW)?

The Electronic Visa Waiver was a simplified travel authorisation that permitted eligible nationals to enter the United Kingdom without the need to apply for a conventional visa. Its main features included a faster process and limited documentation, designed to facilitate short-term travel for approved individuals.

Feature.	Description.
Pre-screening.	Applicants submitted their personal and travel details through an online platform prior to travel.
Simplified Entry.	Individuals approved under the EVW scheme underwent minimal border checks and entered more swiftly.
Eligibility.	The EVW applied to nationals from specific countries, maintaining both security and traveller convenience.

What is the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)?

The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a new digital entry requirement that replaces the Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW) for certain nationalities. It applies to travelers who do not need a visa but must receive approval before entering the United Kingdom. The ETA strengthens the previous system by introducing improved security and procedural measures.

UK authorities use the ETA to collect personal, travel, and biometric details in advance. This enables real-time verification, enhances border security, reduces risks, and ensures a faster and more efficient entry process.

Feature.	Description.
Enhanced Security Measures.	Introduces real-time verification, background checks, and screening against global watchlists.
Updated Application Process.	Requires travelers to submit supporting documents such as passports and travel plans in advance.
Digital Integration.	Links seamlessly with border systems and databases for faster processing and risk management.

When was the UK ETA introduced?

The United Kingdom implemented the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system on 8th January 2025 for non-European nationals and extended the requirement to European nationals from 2nd April 2025. The ETA operates as a digital pre-clearance mechanism for short-stay travellers who do not need a visa to enter the United Kingdom.

Category.	Details.
Eligibility for GCC Nationals.	From 1st February 2024, nationals of the Gulf Cooperation Council travelling to the United Kingdom on or after 22nd February 2024 became eligible to apply for the ETA.
Initial Access (Qatar Only).	Prior to 22nd November 2024, the UK ETA was available exclusively to nationals of Qatar.
Official Implementation for GCC.	The ETA was formally implemented for all GCC nationals on 22ndNovember 2024.
Subsequent Expansion.	In January 2025, the scheme was extended to include additional countries, including select nations from South America.
Inclusion of European Nationals.	As of 5th March 2025, nationals of European Union and European Free Trade Association member states became eligible to apply for an ETA for travel commencing on or after 2nd April 2025.

Nationalities Affected by the Change

This change applies to travelers from designated nationalities. While not all individuals who previously qualified for the EVW are now subject to the ETA, those included under the revised system must follow the updated requirements and application procedures. It is important for travelers to determine whether their nationality is affected in order to plan their journey accordingly.

Aspect.	Details.
Impact Scope.	Travelers who previously qualified for the Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW) but are now subject to the updated security and application protocol under the ETA are directly affected.
Targeted Nationalities.	The change applies to nationalities identified through updated risk assessments or those requiring enhanced entry screening measures.
Advisory Note.	Travelers are strongly encouraged to verify their eligibility and follow the applicable procedures through official United Kingdom government sources.

Countries Now Requiring an ETA

With the introduction of the ETA, certain countries that were previously eligible for the Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW) have been reclassified following updated security evaluations. The revised list of nationalities now required to obtain an ETA generally includes those assessed under the new entry criteria. To learn more about the countries eligible for the UK ETA, you may refer to the eligible countries for UK ETA page.

Countries Previously Eligible for the EVW

Under the previous system, numerous countries had access to the Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW), benefiting from its simplified entry process. These countries were selected based on strong diplomatic ties with the United Kingdom and a low-risk assessment by UK border authorities. To view the full list of eligible countries under the EVW, you may refer to the eligible countries page.

Key differences between EVW and ETA

Aspect.	EVW.	ETA.
Security Protocols.	Relied on a basic online data submission and verification process.	Implements advanced security measures, including comprehensive background checks, real-time data verification, and monitoring against international databases.
Application Process.	Involved a simple application form requesting essential personal and travel information.	Requires a more detailed application, including additional supporting documentation such as passport copies and travel itineraries for enhanced screening.
Digital Integration and Processing.	Designed to be straightforward with basic digital processing capabilities.	Fully integrated into digital systems for faster processing and improved risk assessment, allowing seamless interaction with other border and data systems.
Validity and Flexibility.	Offered validity periods generally aligned with the travel document’s expiration.	Offered validity periods generally aligned with the travel document’s expiration.

Tip: - The ETA enhances the former EVW system with stronger security checks, a detailed application process, and full digital integration—ensuring faster and more secure entry into the UK.

Application Process For UK ETA

The application process for the United Kingdom Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) consists of three straightforward steps:

Uk Eta Application Process Steps Pyramid

Complete the Application and Upload Required Documents.

Applicants must fill in the necessary personal and travel details and upload all required supporting documents, such as a valid passport.
Review the Information Provided.

Before final submission, applicants are required to carefully review all entered details and confirm their accuracy.
Pay the Application Fee and Await Approval.

After submitting the application, the applicant must pay the prescribed fee and wait for the approval notification, which will be issued electronically once the request is processed.

Validity and Cost

The validity period and applicable fees for the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) vary in certain respects from those associated with the former Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW) system.

Validity: The UK ETA is valid for 2 years.
Multiple Entry: The UK ETA allows multiple entries to the UK.

Cost

To check the exact amount required for your UK ETA, go to the UK ETA Application Cost page and use the provided fee calculator tool.

Purpose of Travel

The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) supports multiple travel purposes, and the requirements change depending on the nature of the visit:

UK ETA travel purposes: Tourism, Business, Family

Tourism and Leisure: - Individuals travelling for holidays or personal recreation follow a general set of application conditions.
Business: - Applicants travelling for business may need to include documents such as a letter from their employer or an invitation issued by a UK-based entity.
Family Visits and Other Purposes: - Those visiting family members or travelling for specific reasons may be asked to provide documents like an invitation letter or evidence of family connection.

Implications for Travelers

The United Kingdom’s introduction of the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) brings forward several key factors that travelers must take into account.

Enhanced Security: - The system is structured to strengthen the protection of the United Kingdom’s borders by applying more rigorous screening procedures.
Preparation Time: - In order to complete the ETA application, which entails providing comprehensive personal data and supporting documentation, applicants must allot enough time.
Cost Considerations: - The introduction of advanced security features may lead to higher application fees compared to the EVW. These changes reflect the added safeguards and improved processing efficiency.
Travel Flexibility: - Travelers should stay informed about current travel regulations and procedural updates to ensure compliance and avoid unnecessary delays at the border.

Planning Your Trip

Effective preparation is important following the implementation of the ETA system:

Stay Informed:

Try to stay updated with up-to-date information on travel authorization requirements, eligibility changes, and application instructions related to the United Kingdom ETA system.
Documentation Review:

Confirm that all required travel documents, such as a valid passport, comply with the ETA criteria and are valid for the intended travel period.
Financial Planning:

Prepare for the revised application fees and any additional expenses that may arise from obtaining supporting documentation.

Application Requirements and Timelines.

Category.	Details.
Personal Information.	Enter complete and accurate personal details, including full name, date of birth, and passport-related information.
Travel Details.	Provide specific travel-related information, such as intended arrival dates, length of stay, and accommodation arrangements.
Supporting Documentation.	Upload clear digital copies of all required documents, including passport pages, photographs, employment letters (if necessary), and travel itineraries.

Processing Timelines

ETA applications are subject to detailed security screening. While most applications are processed promptly, certain cases may require further examination. Travelers are advised to submit their applications well before their intended date of departure.

Processing Type	Description
Normal Processing Time.	The application is processed within 1-6 Working Days under the standard review timeline.
Rush Processing Time.	The application is expedited and processed within 1- 3 Working Days.
Super Rush Processing Time.	This is the fastest available option, with the application processed within 24 Hours.

Conclusion

The old EVW is replaced with the UK ETA, a system intended to improve security and streamline admission processes. For a smooth travel experience, travellers are urged to be informed, prepare the necessary paperwork ahead of time, and finish the application procedure within the suggested timeframe.

Frequently Asked Question

No. Travelers are responsible for tracking the validity of their ETA. It is recommended to set a reminder and reapply before the two-year validity ends if future travel is planned.

The border officer sees a digital record of your ETA approval linked to your passport. You may still be asked questions about your travel purpose and supporting documents during entry clearance.

In most cases, yes. Travelers transiting through UK airports may still be required to hold a valid ETA, even if they do not pass through border control. Always check your eligibility in advance.

The ETA is a component of the UK's larger plan to have border controls that are entirely digital by 2025. It facilitates more intelligent migration management, expedites processing at points of entry, and provides early risk assessment.

The Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW) served as a form of travel authorization permitting citizens of specific countries to enter the United Kingdom without needing a traditional visa, granting them a stay of up to six months. However, the option to apply for an EVW for entry into the UK has been discontinued. Those with an existing EVW could use it for access until a specified date (24 February 2024). Alternatively, nationals from Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates can seek an electronic travel authorisation (ETA) instead. This ETA, available at an affordable cost, enables travellers to visit the UK for various purposes, including tourism, business activities, or transit. The ETA system facilitates entry into the UK for eligible individuals from these specified countries, offering a streamlined process for obtaining travel permission electronically.

The eligibility criteria for the Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW) varied depending on the nationality of the traveller. Typically, citizens of certain countries, including Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, could apply for the EVW to visit the UK for short stays. The government determined the specific list of eligible countries and could change over time based on various factors such as bilateral agreements, security concerns, and immigration policies. To qualify for an EVW, individuals from these countries must possess a valid biometric passport, intend to travel for specific purposes, and have a clean record free from any criminal or immigration-related complications.

The government's decision to replace the Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW) scheme with the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) scheme was driven by a dual purpose:

Enhancing border security and facilitating more efficient travel.
The ETA scheme represents an advancement over the EVW in terms of both cost-effectiveness and convenience.
It allows for multiple journeys to the UK within a two-year period or until the expiration of the passport, whichever comes first.

The ETA scheme aligns with the broader transformation and digitization initiatives aimed at modernising the UK's border management systems. As part of this transformation, the ETA will be implemented globally for visitors who are currently exempt from obtaining a visa for short stays, encompassing nationals from European countries and beyond. This strategic shift underscores the government's commitment to adapting to evolving travel dynamics while prioritising security and efficiency at its borders.

An Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is a digital authorisation for individuals intending to travel to the UK, particularly those presently exempt from visa requirements for short-term visits. It forms a crucial component of the UK's initiative to modernise its border controls through digitisation, focusing on enhancing security measures and facilitating smoother travel experiences. The ETA grants permission for multiple entries into the UK and remains valid for two years or until the expiration of the passport, whichever occurs first. Application for an ETA can be completed either through the ETA app or via online submission, necessitating the provision of personal contact details, passport information, a recent photograph, and responses to pertinent inquiries. In most instances, applicants can anticipate receiving a decision within three working days, ensuring swift processing of travel authorisations.

If you currently hold a valid Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW), you can employ it for entry into the UK until the expiration date, typically until 22 February 2024. However, after this deadline, all existing EVWs will cease to be valid, necessitating the acquisition of an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for future visits. The application process for an ETA can be completed through the ETA app or online submission. You must furnish your contact details, passport information, a recent photograph and respond to relevant inquiries. In most instances, applicants can expect to receive a decision regarding their ETA application within three working days. Therefore, if you plan to visit the UK beyond the validity period of your EVW, it is imperative to apply for an ETA on time to facilitate your travel arrangements.

Content Disclaimer: This information reflects updates as of April 2025. Travelers are advised to confirm all details with relevant authorities, including embassies, official agencies, and airlines, to ensure accuracy before making any travel arrangements.