Navigating the UK’s new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system: what you need to know

Non-visa national visitors (those who do not require a Visit visa prior to arriving in the UK) will now need to secure an Electronic Travel Authorisation before entering the country. The change makes a marked shift in UK immigration law. This blog explores key information related to the new system.

From 2025, non-visa nationals will be required to secure an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before entering the UK as a visitor. This significant change aims to strengthen border security and streamline the entry process for eligible visitors. Here is what you need to know to ensure a smooth journey.

The ETA is a digital travel authorisation introduced for visitors from non-visa national countries, providing the UK with essential information about the passenger before their arrival.

The key dates are as follows:

• As of 8 January 2025, non-visa nationals from all countries outside Europe, such as the United States and Australia, now require an ETA.
• From 2 April 2025, the requirement will extend to European nationals from non-visa national countries.

Unless you hold British or Irish citizenship or a valid UK visa, following the above dates you must obtain an ETA prior to your arrival in the UK to be allowed entry as a visitor.

While the ETA application process is designed to be straightforward, there are important factors to consider. You must ensure that all information you provide matches your travel documents. Inaccuracies, such as an incorrect passport number or personal details, can lead to processing delays or even a refusal of your ETA.

If you have a criminal record, this must be disclosed in your application. While minor offenses may not prevent approval, more serious convictions or immigration breaches, such as overstaying on a previous visa, could result in a refusal. Nevertheless, full transparency is essential. If you are found to have not disclosed information relevant to the application or have provided false or misleading information, you may be accused of deception and banned from entering the UK.

Once approved, an ETA is valid for two years or until your passport expires—whichever comes first. During this period, your ETA allows multiple visits to the UK, with each stay permitted for up to six months. Travellers should be mindful of these conditions and ensure their ETA is renewed before it expires.

Top tips

1. Submit your application early: Applications typically take up to three working days to process, but applying as soon as your travel plans are confirmed minimises the risk of delays.
2. Use official channels: Applications can be completed via the official UK government website or the dedicated ETA app. Avoid third-party websites that may charge unnecessary fees.
3. Double-check all details: Thoroughly review your application to ensure all information is correct and matches your travel documents.

At Gherson, we recognise the complexities of new immigration requirements and are well-equipped to support you throughout the ETA process. Whether you need assistance with the application or have concerns about your eligibility, including prior convictions or adverse immigration history, our expert team is here to provide tailored advice and solutions.

Updated: 14 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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