Attention travelers heading to the UK in 2025!
Beginning January 8, 2025, all visitors to the UK will need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) — consider it a quick, electronic visa. But note: An ETA is a digital permission to travel – it is not a visa and does not permit entry into the UK – it authorizes an individual to travel to the UK.
What You Need To Know:
Official Website: Apply for an ETA here (steer clear of third-party sites that charge more!):
The easiest way to apply for an ETA is through the ‘UK ETA app’, which can be downloaded from the Google Play or Apple App Store. Travelers can apply on GOV.UK if you do not have access to a smartphone.
To apply for an ETA, applicants need to:
Pay a fee
Provide contact and passport details
Provide a valid photo, complying with the rules for digital photos on GOV.UK
Answer a set of questions
What happens if someone is not able to obtain an ETA?
If a person’s ETA application is rejected, they will be told the reason and can apply again.
If a person’s ETA application is refused, they cannot appeal and instead need to apply for a visa if they still wish to seek permission to come to the UK.
How does ETA work in Northern Ireland?
The UK does not operate routine immigration controls on journeys from within the Common Travel Area, with no immigration controls whatsoever on the Ireland-Northern Ireland land border.
However, everyone arriving in the UK, including those entering Northern Ireland, continue to need to enter in line with the UK’s Immigration Rules including obtaining an ETA if they are eligible.
How Much Does It Cost?
Fee: £10 GBP ($12 USD).
How Long Is It Valid?
2 years or until the associated passport expires.
Are ETAs needed by those transiting through the UK? If so, why?
Yes: Enhancing border security is one of the UK Government’s key priorities. ETAs give the them a comprehensive understanding of those traveling to the UK and gives them the ability to prevent the travel of those who pose a threat, including those who are transiting through UK airports.
Requiring transit passengers to obtain an ETA stops people who may use connecting flights to avoid gaining permission to travel to the UK. This rule will remain under review.
John's Pro Tip:
Travelers should apply before boarding flights, although approval isn't strictly necessary before flying—airlines might enforce this, so it's better to apply ahead of boarding.
John's SECOND Pro Tip:
If using the mobile app, US travelers should scan the inside of the back cover of their passport (not the front) to access the NFC chip. Keep your phone steady on the last page, and you're good to go!
Quick & Simple:
You can finish the process in minutes.
Approval often arrives swiftly—my own application took less than 5 minutes!
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