UK’s Electronic Travel Authorisation Requirement Now Mandatory For All Tourists (Image Credit: Canva)
Starting in 2025, the United Kingdom will enforce a new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) requirement for European travellers, marking a significant shift in the UK’s entry regulations. This move comes as part of the government’s efforts to streamline border control and enhance security.
What Is the ETA?
Introduced in March 2023, the ETA scheme was initially aimed at monitoring travellers entering or transiting the UK without a visa or legal residence rights. As of January 8, 2025, this system will be extended to include all international visitors, including those from European countries. The scheme requires travellers to obtain an ETA and pay a non-refundable visa waiver fee of GBP 10 (approximately INR 1,100).
Who Needs the ETA?
From January 2025, travellers from outside the European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA) will be required to obtain an ETA for entry into the UK. This includes visitors from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries—Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates—who have been subject to the ETA requirement since the scheme’s introduction. However, the requirement will not apply to Irish nationals, who are exempt due to the Common Travel Area agreement.
The extension of the ETA to European travellers will take effect from April 2, 2025. This will include individuals from all EU and EEA countries, irrespective of their visa status or residency permissions.
The aim of the ETA scheme is to bolster the UK’s security by creating a comprehensive database of individuals travelling to the country. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper stated, “Once fully rolled out, the ETA scheme will close the current gap in advance permissions and for the first time, we will have a comprehensive understanding of those traveling to the UK.”
The move is expected to align the UK’s travel entry requirements with other international systems. For comparison, the USA’s Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) costs USD 13 (approximately INR 1,090) and the EU’s European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is priced at around USD 7.50 (INR 630). These systems have been operational for several years without causing significant disruptions to international tourism.
What Travellers Need to Do?
Travellers from European countries planning to visit the UK in 2025 will need to apply for an ETA online before their trip. The process involves completing an application form and paying the visa waiver fee. It is advisable to apply well in advance of travel dates to ensure a smooth entry process.
The introduction of the ETA marks a significant update in the UK’s border management strategy. As the system becomes fully operational, it will provide enhanced data for security agencies and contribute to a more controlled and monitored travel environment.
For more information on the ETA application process and updates, travellers are encouraged to visit the official UK government website or consult with their travel agents.