If 2024 was the year travelers got rid of the introduction of bureaucracy for visa-free travel to Europe, 2025 is the year reality kicks in.
The much-delayed European Union ETIAS visa waiver is currently on track to be implemented in 2025.
Before that, the UK will introduce its ETA system on January 8.
ETA, which stands for Electronic Travel Authorization, is a new digital registration system for travelers who do not need a visa to enter the UK.
Whereas previously they could board a plane and present themselves at passport control upon landing, travelers will now need to obtain pre-travel authorization to fly to the UK.
Here’s what you should know about the new rules.
Who needs an ETA?
Anyone who does not need a visa to travel to the UK will soon need an ETA, an “electronic travel authorization” that pre-authorises them to enter the country before travelling. This is the British equivalent of the US ESTA: a mandatory, paid authorization to travel, with security clearance done in advance.
The scheme debuted for Gulf Cooperation Council nationals in 2024, and the next stage is to roll it out for other non-European travelers, including the six million travelers from the US, Canada and Australia who enter the UK each year. The full list of 48 states that require ETAs is here.
Travelers from these countries will need an ETA to enter the UK from January 8. The only exception is EU citizens, who will need an ETA to enter the UK from April 2, 2025.
Citizens of these countries already residing in the UK do not need an ETA.
The plan is for “short” visits to the UK of less than six months for tourism and business. There are some other categories of ETA, including for short-term studies and permitted paid engagements. These are listed on the UK government website.
Is it a visa?
Although some people refer to this as a visa, it is actually a visa exemption. Travelers whose citizenship means they need a visa to enter the UK will still need to apply for a visa. (They won’t need ETA to get on board with that, though.)
Countries work on reciprocity when it comes to immigration. When the United States introduced its ESTA visa waiver in 2009, it was inevitable that countries now subject to it would introduce their own similar schemes.
How do I get one?
The cost is £10 non-refundable (just under US$12.50) and you can apply through the official app listed on the UK government website or directly online.
The apps, for iPhone and Android, boast of being faster, with processing times of 10 minutes. Be sure to apply through official channels, rather than through third-party websites, which may charge additional fees and are less likely to handle your data securely.
You will need to upload a photo of your passport, scan and photograph it while applying, upload the photo, and answer several questions about your plans. The online application takes about 20 minutes and you must complete the process in one go; there is no possibility to save on the fly.
A decision will normally be made within three days, although the government warns it could take longer. You are allowed to travel to the UK while you wait for your decision, if you need to visit urgently; however, you must have applied before traveling.
Please note that having an ETA does not guarantee entry to the UK. You still have to go through passport control and Border Force officials still have the final say on whether you can enter the country.
How long will it be valid?
It is valid for two years and multiple entries are possible, so you can visit as many times as you like. However, keep in mind that it will be digitally linked to your passport, so if you get a new passport during those two years, it will no longer be valid and you will need to apply for a new one.
Can families get a joint ETA?
Everyone entering the UK needs their own ETA, including children and even babies. But you can apply on behalf of someone else.
Does this mean I can stay as long as I want?
The ETA is only intended for short stays of up to six months.
I am in transit through the United Kingdom. Do I still need the ETA?
Everyone entering UK soil, even for a quick connection, must have an ETA. (This is the same for any traveler transiting the US who needs an ESTA). You will not be allowed through passport control to the transit area without one.
Does this cover me to enter Europe as well?
To enter Europe, you will need an ETIAS, the EU travel exemption, which has been long delayed but is currently scheduled to begin in 2025. Stay tuned for details as the countdown approaches.