Entrance in the UK costs: Electronic Travel Authorization now mandatory for most non-Visa foreign visitors

As of today, the United Kingdom has implemented a new entry requirement affecting nearly all foreign visitors who do not require a visa, including citizens from the European Union. These visitors are now required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before their arrival in the UK.

The ETA system, similar to other pre-travel authorizations globally, is designed by the UK government to enhance security. It allows authorities to screen individuals prior to their arrival, with the aim of preventing entry by potentially dangerous or criminal elements. However, obtaining an ETA does not guarantee entry into the UK, as the final decision remains with the border force officers at passport control.

The application for an ETA is completed online or through a designated app. Applicants must provide answers to security questions, criminal record details, passport information, a facial photograph, and a payment of £10 (12 euros), which is set to increase to £16 (19 euros) on April 9, 2025. The authorization is valid for two years or until the passport expires, and it covers multiple entries into the country.

With an ETA, visitors are allowed to stay in the UK for up to six months for tourism, family visits, business, or short-term studies. The Creative Worker scheme permits a stay of up to three months. Additionally, ETAs facilitate “permitted paid engagements” for professionals like artists, musicians, and lecturers.

Citizens from countries that are not part of the UK’s visa-waiver program will still need to apply for a traditional visa. The new ETA requirement extends to EU citizens from April 2, 2025, marking a significant change as most UK visitors are from Europe.

Exceptions to this requirement include travelers who are merely transiting through the UK without passing through border control. Airlines are expected to provide clarification to passengers uncertain about their need for an ETA. Irish citizens are exempt from this requirement, courtesy of the Common Travel Area agreement, although non-Irish travelers entering the UK via Ireland will need an Electronic Travel Authorization.

This new measure is part of the UK’s efforts to streamline entry processes and bolster security as global mobility continues to grow.

The article Entrance in the UK costs: Electronic Travel Authorization now mandatory for most non-Visa foreign visitors first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.