ETA: new UK travel requirements for travellers

From 08 January 2025, travellers from all eligible non-European nations, including nationals of USA, Australia, Hong Kong and Singapore, will need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before travelling to the UK.

The UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a digital permission to travel to the UK, designed to facilitate seamless entry while enhancing UK security.

The ETA came into effect in November 2023 and was initially open to Qatari nationals, and then was subsequently extended to individuals from Jordan and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.

From 08 Janaury 2025, eligible non-European travellers, including those from the US, Australia, Hong Kong and Singapore, need to obtain an ETA before travelling to the UK. This requirement also applies to babies and children.

Who does not need an ETA?

You do not need to apply for an ETA if:

• you are a British or Irish citizen.
• you are a British overseas territory citizen travelling with the relevant passport.
• you have a visa to enter the UK.
• you have permission to live, work or study in the UK (including status under EU Settlement Scheme or right of abode).
• you are lawfully resident in Ireland and you are travelling from Ireland, Gurnsey, Jersey or the Isle of Man.

How to apply for an ETA

The ETA application process is quick and simple. Applications can be submitted via the UK ETA app or via the GOV.UK website.

The application fee is £10.00.

You will usually get a decision within 3 working days, but you may get a decision within few hours if you use the UK ETA app. It is important to note that occasionally, it can take longer than 3 working days.

Once you receive an email confirming that your ETA has been granted, it will be digitally linked to the passport you applied with.

How long is an ETA valid for?

Your ETA permits multiple journeys and lasts for 2 years or until your passport expires. If you obtain a new passport, you will need to get a new ETA.

What can you do with an ETA?

If you are an eligible national, you can obtain an ETA istead of a visa if you intend to:

• visit the UK for up to 6 months for tourism, visiting family and friends, business or short-term study.
• come to the UK for up to 3 months under the Creative Worker visa concession.
• undertake a permitted paid engagement.
• transit through the UK, even if you’re not passing through UK border control.

It is essential you prepare for your travel well in advance and make sure to obtain you ETA before travelling to the UK .

Updated: 9 January 2025

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.

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