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According to Schengen News, in order to visit the United Kingdom, every holder of European Union passports, including newborns and minors, must get an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA).
Since March 5, 2025, EU citizens have been able to submit applications for the ETA; however, now that the period of transition is ended, the permit is required. Entry will be refused to anyone who shows up at the UK border without an ETA.
What Is ETA?
All visitors who do not need a visa for brief visits to the UK are covered by the ETA, which takes the position of the Electronic Visa Waiver program.
The Home Office of the United Kingdom emphasizes that the ETA is a digital travel permission rather than a visa. It enables the owner to travel to the UK but doesn’t guarantee admittance.
Enhancing border security and preventing fraud of the immigration system are the goals of the ETA. Once granted, it allows for up to six-month stays over a period of two years, or until the date the passport expires, whenever comes first.
Applicant’s guide
It is easy and quick to apply for an ETA.
- Using the UK ETA app is the simplest way.
- Travelers may also apply on the official website of the United Kingdom government.
- Candidates need to source:
- Identity and passport information
- A authentic picture
- Payment of a fee
- Responses to inquiries about security
The majority of candidates get an email with their choice right away. However, in the event that additional examination is required, UK authorities encourage passengers to allow up to three working days for processing.
Read More: Germany’s New Digital Visa: 400,000 Skilled Workers Needed
Travel & Group Applications
Even if going in a group, each person must request for an ETA separately. Results may be made at various times since submissions are handled independently. 
Applicants can still visit the UK while awaiting their ETA decision if they need to go immediately.
In case of ETA denial?
In the event that an ETA application is denied, the candidate will be notified and given the opportunity to resubmit. For applications that are rejected, there isn’t an appeals procedure. If they still want to visit the UK after being denied an ETA, they must apply for a visa.
Validity & Fee Increase
When your passport expires earlier, an ETA is good for two years.
- An ETA now costs £10 (€12).
- In order to cut down on public spending for immigration and travel, the price will rise to £16 (€19) on April 9, 2025
Read More: Check if you can get an electronic travel authorisation (ETA)
Exemptions from ETA Requirements?
An ETA is not necessary for some organizations, such as:
- People with a valid visa or authorization to reside, work, or study in the United Kingdom
- Irish and British nationals
- Travelers using a UK airport (without passing through border control)
- Irish nationals visiting from the Isle of Man, Jersey, Guernsey, or Ireland
- French students on a formal educational tour from France to the UK
- Those who possess British national (overseas) or British overseas territories passports
- People who are not subject to immigration restrictions
Although official data for April 2025 have not yet been released, thousands of tourists, including EU residents, have already asked for an ETA.
