March 31, 2025
In a significant shift to post-Brexit border controls, the United Kingdom will require European nationals to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before entering the country starting April 2, 2025. The new rule, which mirrors the U.S. ESTA system, applies to travelers from 30 European countries, including all EU member states except Ireland, as well as non-EU nations such as Switzerland and Norway .
Key Details of the ETA System
- Cost & Validity: The ETA costs £10 (€12) when purchased before April 9, after which the fee increases to £16. Once approved, it remains valid for two years or until the traveler’s passport expires, allowing multiple short-term visits of up to six months per stay .
- Application Process: Applicants must submit a photo of their passport and a facial image via the UK ETA app or the GOV.UK website. Most approvals are granted within minutes, though the government advises applying at least three working days in advance .
- Exemptions: The rule does not apply to UK residents, Irish citizens, or travelers with valid UK visas. Additionally, passengers transiting airside (without entering the UK) at Heathrow or Manchester airports are exempt .
Government Rationale & Industry Impact
The UK government, led by Migration Minister Seema Malhotra, argues that the ETA system enhances border security by pre-screening visitors and modernizing immigration checks. "By digitizing the system, we’re paving the way for a contactless UK border," Malhotra stated . However, critics, including airline and tourism groups, warn that the requirement could deter last-minute travelers and complicate trips for families with children, as minors and infants must also obtain the permit .
Broader Context & Future Implications
- Global Trend: The UK’s ETA follows similar systems like the U.S. ESTA and the EU’s delayed ETIAS, set for 2026 .
- Economic Concerns: With 84 million passengers passing through Heathrow in 2024 a third from the EU, some fear the rule could reduce tourism and business travel.
- Next Steps: The UK plans to expand the ETA to additional visa-exempt countries, having already rolled it out for Gulf states, the U.S., Canada, and others in early 2025.
The move marks another step in the UK’s post-Brexit immigration overhaul, balancing security with potential economic friction for Europe’s travelers.