Visitors from 48 countries must now apply and pay a fee before traveling to the UK

The European Union’s long-awaited ETIAS visa waiver is now on track to launch in 2025.

In the meantime, the UK will introduce its ETA system on January 8.

ETA stands for Electronic Travel Authorization, a new digital registration system for travelers who don’t require a visa to enter the UK.

Previously, travelers could simply board a plane and present themselves at passport control upon arrival. However, starting now, they will need to obtain pre-travel authorization before flying to the UK.

Here’s what you need to know about these new rules.

Who needs an ETA?

Anyone who doesn’t need a visa to travel to the UK will soon require an ETA. An “electronic travel authorization” that pre-clears you for entry to the country before travel. This is the UK’s equivalent of the United States’ ESTA—a mandatory, paid-for authorization that requires security clearance in advance.

The scheme was introduced to Gulf Cooperation Council nationals in 2024, and the next phase involves expanding it to other non-European travelers, including the six million annual visitors from the US, Canada, and Australia. The complete list of 48 states that require the ETA is available 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 from April 2, 2025.

It’s important to note that citizens of these countries who are already residing in the UK do not require an ETA.

The ETA is specifically designed for “short” visits to the UK, lasting less than six months for tourism and business purposes. There are other categories of ETA, including for short-term study and permitted paid engagements, which are detailed on the UK government website.

Is it a visa?

Although some people are referring to it as a visa, it’s actually a visa waiver. Travelers whose citizenship requires a visa to enter the UK will still need to apply for a visa. However, they won’t need to obtain the ETA in addition to their visa application.

Countries adhere to reciprocity when it comes to immigration policies. Following the introduction of the ESTA visa waiver by the United States in 2009, it was only a matter of time before countries subject to it would introduce their own comparable schemes.

How can I obtain one?

The application fee is a non-refundable £10 (approximately $12.50). You can apply through the official app available on the UK government website or directly online.

The apps for iPhone and Android claim to be faster, with processing times of just 10 minutes. However, it’s crucial to apply through official channels rather than third-party websites, as they may charge additional fees and are less secure in handling your data.

During the application process, you’ll need to upload a photo of your passport, scan and photograph yourself, upload the photo, and answer various questions about your travel plans. Applying online typically takes around 20 minutes, and you must complete the entire process in one go, as there’s no option to save your progress.

A decision is usually given within three days, although the government acknowledges that it could take longer. If you need to travel urgently to the UK, you’re permitted to do so while waiting for your decision, but you must have submitted the application before your trip.

It’s important to note that having an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) doesn’t guarantee entry to the UK. You still need to go through passport control and Border Force officials, and they have the final say on whether you can enter the country.

How long will the ETA be valid?

The ETA is valid for two years and allows multiple entries, so you can visit the UK as frequently as you like. However, it’s worth mentioning that it will be digitally linked to your passport. Therefore, if you obtain a new passport during the validity period, the ETA will no longer be valid, and you’ll need to apply for a new one.

Can families obtain a joint ETA?

While everyone entering the UK, including children and even babies, must have their own ETA, you can apply for an ETA on someone else’s behalf.

Does this mean I can stay indefinitely?

The ETA is only valid for short stays of up to six months.

I’m just transiting through the UK. Do I still need the ETA?

Everyone entering UK soil, even for a quick onward connection, must have an ETA. (This requirement applies to any travelers transiting through the US, who need an ESTA.) You will not be permitted to pass through passport control to the transit area without an ETA.

Does this cover me to enter Europe as well?

To enter Europe, you’ll need an ETIAS — the EU travel waiver, which has been delayed but is currently scheduled to commence sometime in 2025. Stay informed as the countdown approaches.