From today, EU citizens can apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to enter the UK. From April 2, 2025, this new requirement will become mandatory for travel within the country.
Today marks another milestone in the reform of UK border controls. From March 5, 2025, nationals of 34 European countries and territories can now apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to enter the UK.
From April 2, 2025In addition, the presentation of an approved ETA will be required to enter the country without a visa.
A major change for Europeans
Previously exempt from visas or prior authorization, citizens of France, Spain, Belgium, Italy and other European countries are now required to anticipate their travel plans by submitting an ETA application online before leaving for the UK.
This system, which is similar to the American ESTA system or the future European ETIAS, is designed to enhance the security of the UK's borders, while allowing smoother management of arrivals.
The ETA is valid for two years and allows several short stays of up to six months. It costs 10 £.
With an approved ETA, you can come to the UK to :
- Tourism
- Visiting family and friends
- The business
- Short-term studies
- Even for transit (if you pass through border control)
Who is affected by British ETA?
From April 2, 2025In the UK, all visa-exempt travellers, whether from Europe or elsewhere, will need a valid ETA to enter the UK.
As of today, citizens of the 34 European countries and territories The following are eligible to apply for an ETA:
- Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and Vatican City.
Nationals of 54 countries The following had already been eligible for electronic travel authorization for several weeks:
- Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Australia, Bahamas, Bahrain, Barbados, Belize, Botswana, Brazil, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Costa Rica, Grenada, Guatemala, Guyana, Hong Kong, Israel, Japan, Kiribati, Kuwait, Macau, Malaysia, Maldives, Marshall Islands, Mauritius, Mexico, Micronesia, Nauru, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Oman, Palau, Panama, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, Peru, Qatar, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Samoa, Saudi Arabia, Seychelles, Singapore, Solomon Islands, South Korea, Taiwan, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Tuvalu, United Arab Emirates, United States and Uruguay.
Which travellers are exempt from ETA?
Despite this widespread use of the system, certain categories of travellers remain exempt from ETA :
- Travelers holding a valid UK visa or a UK residence, work or study permit.
- British and Irish citizens: the free movement agreement between Ireland and the UK remains unchanged.
- French school groups travelling under certain conditions, thanks to a temporary exemption granted by London.
- Transit passengers who do not pass through British immigration control.
- Visitors holding British Overseas Territories passports.
- Irish residents traveling to the UK from Ireland, Guernsey, Jersey or the Isle of Man.
How do I obtain an ETA for the United Kingdom?
The request is made onlinevia the official website from British government or the dedicated "UK ETA" mobile app available on iOS and Android devices.
To apply for an ETA, travelers must provide :
- A biometric passport valid.
- A photo recently.
- From personal information.
- A payment of £10
Approval is generally rapid, often taking less than 72 hoursHowever, the authorities recommend anticipating the procedure to avoid any last-minute complications.
Fill in a file from ETA United Kingdom
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