UK Electronic Travel Authorisation 2025: Everything Travellers Need to Know

Starting 2 April 2025, all European citizens will need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to enter the United Kingdom. The new requirement marks a significant change for travellers, designed to tighten border controls while streamlining entry processes. Here’s everything you need to know.

Why the UK is launching an ETA

From 2 April 2025 onward, passport holders from EU countries must hold a valid ETA before travelling to the UK. The digital permit is intended to simplify and secure the country’s entry process.

The ETA will be valid for two years—or until passport expiry, whichever comes first. Within its validity period, holders may enter the UK multiple times for stays of up to six months each.

Pilot countries and early applicants

On 8 January 2025, nationals of 49 pilot countries will begin submitting ETA applications. Countries include Australia, Canada, Japan and the United States. These early adopters help test system performance before full rollout at the start of April.

• Antigua and Barbuda

• Argentina

• Australia

• Bahamas

• Barbados

• Belize

• Botswana

• Brazil

• Brunei

• Canada

• Chile

• Colombia

• South Korea

• Costa Rica

• United States

• Grenada

• Guatemala

• Guyana

• Hong Kong

• Marshall Islands

• Mauritius

• Solomon Islands

• Israel

• Japan

• Kiribati

• Macao

• Malaysia

• Maldives

• Mexico

• Micronesia

• Nauru

• New Zealand

• Nicaragua

• Palau

• Panama

• Papua New Guinea

• Paraguay

• Peru

• Saint Kitts and Nevis

• Saint Lucia

• Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

• Samoa

• Seychelles

• Singapore

• Taiwan

• Tonga

• Trinidad and Tobago

• Tuvalu

• Uruguay

How to apply and receive your ETA

Travellers from France and across Europe will use a simple online form to request their ETA. Applicants must supply standard personal and passport details. Most applications are processed quickly and the outcome is usually sent by e-mail.

Apply well in advance—early submission leaves time to correct any errors before you travel and prevents last-minute complications.

Where the ETA can take you

An approved ETA can be used for tourism, family visits, short business trips and brief study programmes. It also covers transit stops inside the UK en route to another destination.

Important: the ETA is not a work permit. Travellers may not take up paid employment while visiting under this authorisation.

Impact on frequent UK visitors

The new ETA system brings noticeable changes for anyone who visits the UK often. Although it adds a new administrative step, benefits include multiple entries spread over two years and streamlined processing. For regular travellers, monitor official updates to stay informed of any added conditions or new requirements.

Pros and cons at a glance

✔ strengthened security thanks to pre-screened visitor information

✔ shorter wait times at UK borders

✔ multiple visits over 24 months

⚠ Travellers unfamiliar with digital forms may need extra help to complete the application correctly. Visamundi can guide you through UK ETA formalities—stay tuned for updates.

Steps to prepare an ETA request

Follow this practical checklist to keep your application on track:

1. Start your application at least one month before your intended departure.

2. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months after your arrival date in the UK.

3. Collect necessary personal details ready before you begin the online form.

4. Double-check all entries before submitting to avoid delays.

5. Save a copy of your ETA and any confirmation e-mails.

A well-prepared trip is your ticket to a smooth arrival in the UK and worry-free days while you’re there. Check official guidance early, meet entry conditions ahead of time, and reach out via our live chat if you need assistance.