(Commonwealth_ UK) As of January 8, 2025, travellers from non-European countries must secure an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to enter the United Kingdom. This requirement extends to all travellers from visa-exempt nations, with a phased implementation for European travellers beginning April 2, 2025. Here’s a detailed overview of the new ETA program for the U.K. and the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) to launch in the first half of 2025.
The ETA program, initially introduced in 2023 for travellers from select Middle Eastern nations, will be expanded to include all non-European visitors starting January 8, 2025. This policy change aims to enhance border security and streamline the entry process into the U.K. The ETA will be mandatory for all travellers who are not British or Irish citizens. This includes individuals from countries that previously did not require a visa for UK entry, such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and others. The only exceptions are British and Irish nationals.
Travellers can begin applying for the ETA on November 27, 2024. The application process will be accessible online, allowing travellers to submit their details and receive approval before their journey. The application process will open for European travellers on March 5, 2025. The ETA will cost £10 (approximately $13.10). Once granted, it will permit multiple entries into the U.K. for stays of up to six months at a time for two years, or until the holder’s passport expires—whichever comes first. The ETA is linked electronically to the traveler’s passport, ensuring more robust security checks and a more efficient border control process.
The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), set to be implemented in the first half of 2025, is a new travel authorisation system that will apply to visitors from 60 visa-exempt countries, including the United States. This initiative is part of the European Union’s efforts to bolster security and manage the flow of travellers into the Schengen Area, which comprises 30 European countries. Travellers will be able to apply for ETIAS online. The system is designed to process most applications within minutes, although processing times may be longer if additional information is required. It is recommended that travellers apply well in advance of their planned trip to accommodate any potential delays.
The ETIAS will cost €7 (approximately $7.75). The authorisation will be valid for up to three years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. With ETIAS, travellers can enter the Schengen Area countries as frequently as needed for short-term stays, typically up to 90 days within any 180 days. It is important to note that while ETIAS grants the authorisation to travel, it does not guarantee entry into the Schengen Area; final admission is subject to border control checks. When applying for ETIAS, travellers must ensure that all details, including their name and passport number, are accurately provided. Any discrepancies or errors in the application could result in denial of entry at the border.
Both the U.K.’s ETA and Europe’s ETIAS represent significant steps in the evolution of international travel security and border management. These systems are designed to facilitate smoother, more secure entry processes while maintaining rigorous checks to enhance safety. Travellers planning to visit the U.K. or European countries should be aware of these new requirements and ensure they complete their applications promptly to avoid disruptions to their travel plans.
