By April 2025, non-visa nationals will require an ETA for visits to the UK. This is part of the UK government’s aim to completely digitalise the UK’s border and immigration systems.
Do I need to apply?
ETAs will be required by non-visa nationals, including babies and children, who are currently able to seek entry as visitors on arrival at the UK border, i.e. those who are able to visit the UK without advance visa arrangements.
You will not require an ETA if you have a visa to live in the UK, or status under the EU Settlement Scheme.
When do I apply?
The ETA scheme is already open to nationals of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.
The ETA scheme will open to applications from non-European nationals, including nationals of the USA and Canada, on 27 November 2024. Such nationals must have an ETA to visit the UK from 8 January 2025.
The ETA scheme will open to applications from European nationals on 5 March 2025. Such nationals must have an ETA to visit the UK from 2 April 2025.
How do I apply?
The simplest way to apply for an ETA is via the official Home Office mobile application. An online application form option does, however, exist for those who are unable to access mobile applications.
How long is an ETA valid for?
You will receive your ETA approval by email, and it will automatically be linked to the passport that you applied with. ETAs last 2 years and ETA holders may travel to the UK as many times as they would like during that period, for visits of up to 6 months per trip. Importantly, an ETA does not guarantee entry to the UK.
If you get a new passport, then you will need to get a new ETA even if the 2-year period has not expired.
How Gherson can assist
Gherson’s Immigration Team are highly experienced in advising on UK visa matters. If you have any questions arising from this blog, please do not hesitate to contact us for advice, send us an e-mail, or, alternatively, follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn to stay-up-to-date.
The information in this blog is for general information purposes only and does not purport to be comprehensive or to provide legal advice. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information and law is current as of the date of publication it should be stressed that, due to the passage of time, this does not necessarily reflect the present legal position. Gherson accepts no responsibility for loss which may arise from accessing or reliance on information contained in this blog. For formal advice on the current law please do not hesitate to contact Gherson. Legal advice is only provided pursuant to a written agreement, identified as such, and signed by the client and by or on behalf of Gherson.
©Gherson 2024