The big changes coming to UK and European travel in 2025.
Starting on 8 January 2025, millions of international travelers will need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before entering the UK, even if they are merely transiting through the country. This new requirement will affect visitors from non-European countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, and others who currently do not need a visa for short stays in the UK.
To obtain an ETA, travelers will need to complete an online form and pay a £10 fee (approximately US $12.75). In most cases, applicants will receive approval within a few hours, although some may have to wait up to three business days for a decision. The ETA will be valid for multiple entries to the UK for stays of up to six months, and it will remain active for two years or until the traveler’s passport expires, whichever comes first.
The new system will not only apply to non-European travelers. Starting 2 April 2025, citizens of EU nations will also need an ETA to enter the UK, although those holding valid UK visas or passports will be exempt from this requirement.
The UK government’s Home Office explains that the expansion of the ETA program—initially applied to citizens of seven Middle Eastern countries—is part of an effort to streamline the entry process by confirming travelers' eligibility before they depart their home country. Gate agents will check travelers’ ETA status digitally when they board flights to the UK, reducing delays and confusion at border crossings.
The Home Office also highlights security benefits, noting that the collection of biographic, biometric, and contact information during the application process will improve the tracking of traveler movements, making the process more efficient and secure. Seema Malhotra, the UK Minister for Migration and Citizenship, emphasized the importance of the ETA as part of the country’s broader effort to modernize its border system. This expansion of ETA is a significant step forward in delivering a border that's efficient and fit for the digital age, she said in a statement. Through light-touch screening, before people step foot in the UK, we will keep our country safe while ensuring visitors have a smooth travel experience."
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