The ETA scheme was introduced in 2023 for non-European nationals – including those from the USA, Canada and Australia.
The UK government, which says the scheme strengthens the immigration system’s security, is now rolling it out for eligible Europeans, who will need an ETA to travel to the UK from 2 April.
Here’s what you need to know about who needs one and how much it costs to apply
What is an ETA and who needs one?
An ETA is a digital permission to travel to the UK. It is not a visa and does not permit entry into the UK – it authorises a person to travel.
Upon being approved, it is attached digitally to the traveller’s passport.
All travellers who do not require a visa to enter the UK for a short stay, or who don’t already have a UK immigration status, are required to have one.
You also do not need an ETA if:
- you have a visa
- you have permission to live, work or study in the UK (including settled or pre-settled status or right of abode)
- you are transiting through a UK airport and you will not pass through border control – check with your airline if you are not sure
- you are a British or Irish citizen
- you are travelling with a British overseas territories citizen passport
- you are travelling with a British National (Overseas) passport
- you live in Ireland and you are travelling from Ireland, Guernsey, Jersey or the Isle of Man
- you are a child travelling on the France-UK school trip travel information form
- you are exempt from immigration control
What if you are a dual citizen?
If you are a dual citizen with British or Irish citizenship, you do not need an ETA.
You can prove you are allowed to travel using a valid British or Irish passport or another valid passport containing a certificate of entitlement.
How much does it cost?
The ETA costs £10 – however, the government has said it intends to raise that to £16 from April.
How to apply for an ETA and how long it takes
The best way to obtain an ETA is through the UK ETA app, but you can also apply through the government’s website.
It usually takes minutes to receive a decision on an application when sent through the app.
However, people are advised to leave at least three working days for a decision as a “small number” of cases need further review.
The application involves paying the fee, providing contact and passport details, providing a valid photo and answering a set of questions.
Visitors must then ensure the passport they use to travel is the same one used to complete the ETA application.
What if my ETA isn’t approved before travel?
As long as you apply before travelling, you can travel to the UK while waiting for a decision on your ETA.
What happens if my application is rejected?
If an application is rejected, the individual will be told the reason and they can apply again.
If it is refused, they cannot appeal – and instead would need to apply for a visa if they still wish to travel to the UK.
Do I need an ETA for transit?
An ETA won’t be needed if you don’t pass through border control while transiting through a UK airport.
The government recommends checking with your airline if you are uncertain.
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How long will the ETA last?
An ETA lasts two years. It allows for multiple journeys and for stays of up to six months at a time over two years or until the holder’s passport expires – whichever is sooner.
How does it help UK border security?
The Home Office has said that those applying for an ETA will have to provide their biographic, biometric and contact details, and answer a short set of questions on suitability and criminality.
The aim is that this information will increase knowledge about those seeking to come to the UK and prevent the arrival of those who present a threat.
