Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) Requirement for European Visitors to the UK from 2 April 2025
In This Article
1. UK ETA Requirement for European Visitors
2. Who Needs an ETA?
3. How to Apply for an ETA
4. Validity and Multiple Entries
5. What Happens if an ETA is Refused?
6. Why is the UK Introducing the ETA?
7. Plan Ahead for Your UK Visit
8. Contact Our Immigration Barristers
9. Frequently Asked Questions
10. Glossary
1. UK ETA Requirement for European Visitors
From 2 April 2025, European nationals planning to visit the UK for tourism, business, study (for up to six months), or other permitted short-term activities must apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before travel. This new requirement applies to nationals from the European Economic Area (EEA), including EU countries, as well as Switzerland, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino, and Vatican City.
The introduction of the UK ETA system marks a significant change in UK border control, enhancing pre-arrival screening for non-visa nationals. Travellers without an approved ETA will be denied boarding on flights, ferries, or trains to the UK.
2. Who Needs an ETA?
From 2 April 2025, nationals of the following countries must obtain an ETA before travel:
- EU Member States: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden.
- EEA Countries & Switzerland: Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland.
- Microstates: Andorra, Monaco, San Marino, Vatican City.
If you hold citizenship in one of these locations and do not have another form of UK immigration status (such as a visa or settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme), you must obtain an ETA before travel.
3. How to Apply for an ETA
Applying for an ETA is a straightforward online process. You will need to:
- Complete an application via the UK ETA app or official UK government website.
- Provide personal and passport details.
- Submit a digital passport photo.
- Answer security and suitability questions.
- Pay a £10 application fee.
Most applications will be processed within three working days, but travellers are advised to apply well in advance to avoid travel disruptions.
4. Validity and Multiple Entries
Once granted, an ETA is valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. During this period, you can use it for multiple trips to the UK without needing to reapply, provided each visit meets the permitted conditions.
5. What Happens if an ETA is Refused?
If your ETA application is refused, you will not be permitted to travel to the UK under this scheme. However, this does not necessarily mean you are ineligible to visit the UK.
There are several possible reasons for an ETA refusal, including:
- Inaccurate or incomplete information: Errors in your ETA application can lead to rejection.
- Previous UK immigration violations: Overstaying a visa or past breaches of UK immigration rules may affect eligibility.
- Criminal record concerns: Certain convictions can impact approval.
- Security or suitability concerns: If the UK authorities determine that an applicant poses a security risk, the ETA may be refused.
If your application is refused, you may be able to:
- Reapply: If the refusal was due to an error, you can submit a new application with corrected information.
- Seek legal advice: If you believe the refusal was unjustified, immigration specialists can assess your case and advise on potential next steps.
- Apply for a UK visa: In some cases, you may need to apply for a full visitor visa instead, which involves a more detailed assessment.
If you face an ETA refusal and need expert legal advice on your options, our team of experienced UK immigration barristers can assist.
6. Why is the UK Introducing the ETA?
The UK government is introducing the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme as part of its efforts to strengthen border security and improve migration management. The system is similar to the US ESTA and the upcoming EU ETIAS system, ensuring that visitors undergo security screening before arrival in the UK.
By implementing the ETA, the UK aims to enhance security measures while streamlining entry procedures for eligible travellers.
7. Plan Ahead for Your UK Visit
If you are a European national planning to visit the UK from 2 April 2025 onwards, ensure that you apply for an ETA in advance to avoid last-minute travel disruptions.
8. Contact Our Immigration Barristers
For expert UK immigration advice on the ETA application process, handling refusals, or applying for a UK visa, our specialist immigration barristers in London can assist. Contact us today on +44 (0)203 617 9173 or complete our online enquiry form for personalised guidance on your UK travel plans.
