What is an ETA?

An Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a digital permission that allows you to travel to the UK. It is not a visa and does not guarantee entry into the UK, but it authorizes you to travel there. You will still need to see a Border Force officer or use an ePassport gate upon arrival. The permission is valid for 2 years or until the expiration date of the passport, whichever comes sooner.

Who Needs an ETA?

Starting from 2 April 2025, nationals from European countries will need an ETA to travel to the UK. This is a significant change, as previously, these travellers did not require any form of travel authorization. Here are the key points:

Who Can Apply Now: Nationals from countries such as Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Australia, The Bahamas, Bahrain, Barbados, Belize, Botswana, Brazil, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Costa Rica, Grenada, Guatemala, Guyana, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (including British national overseas), Israel, Japan, Kiribati, Kuwait, Macao Special Administrative Region, Malaysia, Maldives, Marshall Islands, Mauritius, Mexico, Federated States of Micronesia, Nauru, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Oman, Palau, Panama, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, Peru, Qatar, Samoa, Saudi Arabia, Seychelles, Singapore, Solomon Islands, South Korea, St Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Taiwan (if you have a passport issued by Taiwan that includes in it the number of the identification card issued by the competent authority in Taiwan), Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Tuvalu, United Arab Emirates, United States, Uruguay.

Who Can Apply from 5 March 2025 and travel with it from 2 April 2025: Nationals from European countries such as Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czechia, 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, Vatican City

Exemptions: You do not need an ETA if you have a visa, permission to live, work, or study in the UK, or if you are a British or Irish citizen.

In case of other nationalities, check the rules there: https://www.gov.uk/check-uk-visa

What You Can Do with an ETA

With this permission, you can:

Visit the UK for up to 6 months for tourism, visiting family and friends, business, or short-term study.

Transit through a UK airport if you will pass through border control

What You Cannot Do with an ETA

It does not allow you to:

Stay in the UK for longer than 6 months.

Do paid or unpaid work for a UK company, unless it is a permitted paid engagement.

Claim public funds (benefits).

Marry or register a civil partnership

Challenges for European Drivers

The introduction of the new requirement for European drivers might present some challenges. Drivers who frequently travel between the UK and European countries will need to ensure they have a valid ETA for each trip. This new requirement aims to enhance border security and streamline entry processes, but it may also add an extra step for drivers who are used to traveling without such authorizations.

How to Apply

Applying for an ETA is straightforward:

Cost: It costs £10 to apply using the app or online through GOV.UK

Application Process: You can apply for yourself or others, including babies and children. Note that you cannot get a refund after applying. Most applications will be processed within 48–72 hours, but delays can happen, especially if additional security checks are required.

Assistance for Drivers Facing Challenges

If you are facing difficulties with the application process, can seek assistance. This can be particularly useful if you are not familiar with the digital application process or if you encounter any issues.

Conclusion

The introduction of the requirement for European drivers marks a significant change in travel regulations. It is essential to check your eligibility based on your nationality and travel dates and follow the application process to obtain your ETA. If you face any challenges, consider seeking assistance to ensure a smooth application process.