As of today, a significant update has been introduced for European visitors planning to travel to the UK. Eligible Europeans are now required to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before entering the country. This step marks a crucial expansion of the UK’s digital immigration system, following the successful rollout of ETAs for non-European nationals from 2024.
If you’re a European citizen planning to visit the UK for a short stay, this blog will guide you through everything you need to know about the new ETA requirement and how it impacts your travel plans.
What is the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)?
As mentioned in our previous blog, the ETA is a digital permission facilitating travel to the UK. However, it does not provide an automatic right to enter the UK, making ETA travellers still subject to immigration control upon arrival.
Who needs an ETA?
European Nationals:
From today, all eligible European citizens will need an ETA to enter the UK for a short stay, whether for tourism, business, or family visits. This requirement applies to nationals from countries in the European Union (EU), as well as several other European nations.
Other Eligible Countries:
The ETA system has already been rolled out for nationals of non-European countries, including those from the USA, Canada, Australia, and more.
Exemptions:
Certain categories of individuals, including British and Irish citizens, as well as individuals with status under the EU Settlement Scheme, do not need an ETA.
Why is the ETA being introduced?
The primary goal behind the introduction of the ETA system is to enhance UK border security. By requiring travellers to apply for digital authorisation before arriving, the UK government can carry out additional checks on travellers’ background and suitability, including criminality and security concerns. This helps ensure that those entering the UK do not pose a threat.
How to apply for an ETA
The process of applying for an ETA is quick and simple. Here’s what you need to do:
- Download the UK ETA app: The easiest way to apply for an ETA is through the ‘UK ETA app’.
- Prepare your documents: When applying, you will need to provide the following information:
- Passport details: Make sure your passport is valid.
- Contact information: Provide your full contact details.
- Digital Photo: A valid, passport-style photo that meets the rules stated on GOV.UK.
- Answer questions: Applicants will need to respond to a set of questions about their background, including criminality and security checks.
- Fee: The application for an ETA currently costs £10. This fee covers multiple visits over a two-year period, allowing for stays of up to six months at a time (or until your passport expires, whichever is sooner).
- Get an instant decision: Most applicants will receive an instant decision when applying through the app. For some cases, the government recommends allowing up to three working days to process the application, as certain applications may require further review.
What happens if your ETA is rejected?
In the event your ETA application is rejected, you will be informed of the reason. If your application is refused, you cannot appeal the decision directly. However, you will be advised to apply for a visa if you still wish to visit the UK.
Do dual citizens need an ETA?
British and Irish dual citizens do not need an ETA to enter the UK. If you are a British dual citizen with citizenship from an ETA-eligible country, it is advisable to travel with your British passport to avoid any unnecessary delays at the border.
If you are a dual British citizen and travelling with your non-British passport, you can still travel under the current rules, but be aware that in the future, you will be required to travel with your British passport or obtain a certificate of entitlement to confirm your British citizenship.
Do transit passengers need an ETA?
For now, transit passengers who remain airside (i.e. they do not pass through UK border control) do not need an ETA. However, travellers who need to cross the UK border for transit will still require an ETA if they are from a country that requires one.
Need Immigration Assistance? Contact Gherson Solicitors today for expert legal guidance on navigating the latest immigration changes.
Get in touch now to schedule a consultation!
Updated: 2 March 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.
©Gherson 2025