UK ETA fee hike to £16 takes effect today
The cost of the UK’s Electronic Travel Authorisation rises 60% today, adding financial strain for short-term visitors from Europe as the government seeks to offset public funding reliance.
As of today, 9 April 2025, the cost of the UK’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for short trips jumps from £10 to £16 – a 60 % increase. The rise, announced by the UK Home Office in January, continues to draw criticism.
Teams at Visamundi confirmed the new fee on their first attendant bookings this morning.
Fee raised before roll-out completion
The ETA, which has been required for all European visitors staying less than six months, was introduced in phases from March 2025 and became mandatory for all travellers on 2 April. Yet even before the scheme’s full deployment, the UK government revised the original £10 fee upward. Travellers now pay roughly €18.51 for the two-year permit.
https://twitter.com/UKinSingapore/status/1909456230059278494
The Home Office states the increase aims to reduce reliance on public funds for the immigration system, forecasting an extra £269 million in annual revenue.
Does higher cost risk competitiveness?
Britain now faces a paradox: how to remain attractive while increasing visitor costs. With easier, cheaper alternatives across Europe, the move could deter a slice of potential tourists.
Travelers who applied before today or travel frequently will keep their existing ETA regardless of the new price; no top-up is required.
This sharp rise underscores that post-Brexit travel to the UK now carries extra charges.
