The Electronic Travel Authorisation scheme will be gradually rolled out from October 2023 and is expected to become a requirement for all non-visa nationals coming to the UK as visitors for a short stay. It is not permission to enter UK – travellers will still need to pass through immigration (and can use egates where eligible) – it is permission to travel only. Airlines will check ETA before allowing traveller to board when flying to the UK.

ETA should be applied for before booking travel. ETA will be valid for multiple journeys to the UK and for 2 years or until passport expires if sooner. If individual gets a new passport, they need to apply for a new ETA as it is not transferrable.

UKVI have confirmed from 27 November 2024, eligible non-Europeans can apply for an ETA and will need an ETA to travel from 8 January 2025. ETAs will then extend to eligible Europeans from 5 March 2025, who will need an ETA to travel from 2 April 2025. 

By April 2025, all visitors who do not need a visa will need an electronic travel authorisation (ETA) to travel to the UK. You can read more about this on the UKVI webpages. You’ll need to apply for an electronic travel authorisation (ETA)

Everyone wishing to travel to the UK – except British and Irish citizens – will need permission to travel in advance of coming here. This can be either through an ETA or an eVisa.

First published: 15 November 2024

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