The UK is introducing a new entry permit requirement for European travelers starting Wednesday, as part of efforts to enhance border security. The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) or the permit, similar to the US ESTA system, will be mandatory for European visitors from April 2. Initially priced at £10 (12 euros), the cost will rise to £16 from April 9.
Migration Minister Seema Malhotra emphasized that digitizing the immigration system will pave the way for a “contactless UK border” and improve security through technology. The ETA, valid for two years, allows stays of up to six months and is required for all travelers, including minors and infants.
Applications, available via a smartphone app or the government website, opened for Europeans in early March. The process, which involves submitting a passport photo and facial image, typically takes around 10 minutes, with most approvals granted within minutes. However, applicants are advised to allow up to three working days. Once approved, the ETA is digitally linked to the applicant’s passport.
The new requirement applies to nationals from about 30 European countries, excluding Ireland. Air passengers transiting without crossing the UK border are exempt, following concerns raised by Heathrow Airport. Currently, only Heathrow and Manchester airports support airside transit in the UK.
The ETA system was first introduced in 2023 for Qatari nationals before expanding to Gulf countries. In January, it was extended to travelers from around 50 additional nations, including Argentina, South Korea, and New Zealand. By the end of 2024, nearly 1.1 million ETAs had been issued. The scheme does not apply to UK residents or those with existing UK immigration status.
The ETA mirrors the upcoming European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), which will be required for visa-exempt travelers to 30 European countries, including France and Germany, but has been delayed until 2026.
