The United Kingdom (UK) has introduced new travel requirements affecting visitors from 48 countries. Under the updated regulations, travellers from these nations must now obtain a visa before crossing the British border.
New UK Travel Rules
As of 8 January, anyone entering the UK from these countries is required to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)—a newly implemented digital entry system for travellers who previously did not need a visa.
Countries requiring an ETA visa from January 8
If you’re traveling from any of the following countries, you’ll need an ETA visa:
Americas
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Argentina
- Belize
- Brazil
- Canada
- Chile
- Costa Rica
- Grenada
- Guatemala
- Guyana
- Mexico
- Nicaragua
- Panama
- Paraguay
- Peru
- St Kitts and Nevis
- St Lucia
- St Vincent and the Grenadines
- Trinidad and Tobago
- United States
- Uruguay
Asia and Pacific
- Australia
- Brunei
- Hong Kong SAR (incl. British National Overseas)
- Israel
- Japan
- Kiribati
- Macao SAR
- Malaysia
- Maldives
- Micronesia
- Nauru
- New Zealand
- Palau
- Papua New Guinea
- Samoa
- Singapore
- Solomon Islands
- South Korea
- Taiwan*
- Tonga
- Tuvalu
Africa and Others
- Botswana
- Mauritius
- Seychelles
- Barbados
- The Bahamas
- Marshall Islands
(*A Taiwan passport must include an ID card number issued by Taiwan’s competent authority.)
Who can apply now
Who can apply now - Antigua and Barbuda
- Argentina
- Australia
- The Bahamas
- Bahrain
- Barbados
- Belize
- Botswana
- Brazil
- Brunei
- Canada
- Chile
- Costa Rica
- Grenada
- Guatemala
- Guyana
- Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (including British national overseas)
- Israel
- Japan
- Kiribati
- Kuwait
- Macao Special Administrative Region
- Malaysia
- Maldives
- Marshall Islands
- Mauritius
- Mexico
- Federal States of Micronesia
- Nauru
- New Zealand
- Nicaragua
- Oman
- Palau
- Panama
- Papua New Guinea
- Paraguay
- Peru
- Qatar
- Samoa
- Saudi Arabia
- Seychelles
- Singapore
- Solomon Islands
- South Korea
- St Kitts and Nevis
- St Lucia
- St Vincent and Grenadines
- Taiwan (if you have a passport issued by Taiwan that includes in it the number of the identification card issued by the competent authority in Taiwan)
- Tonga
- Trinidad and Tobago
- Tuvalu
- United Arab Emirates
- United States
- Uruguay
Who can apply from 5 March 2025
Citizens of the following countries and territories will be eligible to apply for an ETA from 5 March 2025. From 2 April 2025, they will be able to travel to the UK with an approved ETA.
- Andorra
- Austria
- Belgium
- Bulgaria
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Czechia
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Monaco
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania
- San Marino
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Vatican City
Who needs an ETA?
Anyone who currently travels to the UK without a visa will Need an ETA—an “electronic travel authorisation” that grants pre-clearance before arrival. Similar to the United States’ ESTA, this is a mandatory, paid authorisation that ensures security checks are completed in advance.
The scheme was first introduced for Gulf Cooperation Council nationals in 2024 and is now being extended to other non-European travellers, including the six million annual visitors from the US, Canada, and Australia. In total, 48 countries will require an ETA.
Travellers from these countries will need an ETA to enter the UK from 8 January 2025, except for EU citizens, who will need one from 2 April 2025.
You will need an ETA if you are:
- Travelling to the UK for up to six months for tourism, business, visiting family and friends, or short-term study
- Entering the UK for up to three months under the Creative Worker visa concession
- Travelling for a permitted paid engagement
- Transiting through the UK, even if you do not go through UK border control
You do not need an ETA if you:
- Already have a visa
- Have permission to live, work, or study in the UK (including settled or pre-settled status or right of abode)
- Are a British or Irish citizen
- Hold a British Overseas Territories citizen passport
- Live in Ireland and are travelling from Ireland, Guernsey, Jersey, or the Isle of Man
- Hold dual British or Irish citizenship
The ETA is required only for short visits of less than six months, covering tourism, business, study, and permitted paid engagements. Full details are available on the UK government website.
Is an ETA a visa?
No, an ETA is not a visa—it is a visa waiver. If you already require a visa to enter the UK, you will still need to apply for one. However, you do not need to obtain an ETA in addition to your visa.
Many countries introduce reciprocal immigration measures. When the United States launched its ESTA visa waiver in 2009, it was only a matter of time before other countries implemented similar schemes. The UK’s ETA follows this global trend, ensuring that travellers are pre-cleared before arrival.
How to apply for a UK ETA
Applying for a UK ETA is a quick and straightforward process. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth application:
Step-by-step guide
- Apply through the official UK ETA website or mobile app (available on iPhone and Android). Avoid third-party websites to prevent extra fees or security risks.
- Fill in the online application form, providing your personal details, passport information, and travel plans.
- Upload a passport photo and complete identity verification by scanning and photographing yourself.
- Pay the £10 application fee using a credit or debit card (the fee is non-refundable).
- Submit your application – it typically takes around 10 minutes via the app or 20 minutes online.
- Processing Time: Most applications are processed within three business days, but delays may occur. Your approved ETA will be sent to your email and linked electronically to your passport.
Important notes:
- You must apply before travelling, but you can still fly while waiting for a decision.
- An ETA does not guarantee entry – UK Border Control has the final say.
How the UK ETA affects passport and travel rules
The UK ETA introduces a new pre-travel requirement for many passport holders, meaning travellers must plan ahead before their trip. If you’re from an affected country, here’s what you need to do:
- Check your passport validity – Ensure your passport remains valid throughout your stay in the UK.
- Apply for your ETA in advance – Don’t wait until the last minute; processing can take up to three business days or longer.
- Stay informed on entry requirements – Keep up to date with any changes to UK travel rules to avoid surprises at the border.
While the ETA simplifies travel for many, it does not replace a visa for those who need one. Always double-check requirements before booking your trip!
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
1. How long is a UK ETA valid?
A UK 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, if each visit follows the ETA conditions.
- Covers multiple visits – No need to reapply for each trip.
- Valid for tourism, business, short-term study, or transit – Ensure your travel plans align with ETA requirements.
- Linked to your passport – If you renew your passport, you’ll need to apply for a new ETA.
Planning multiple trips to the UK? Make sure your passport stays valid to maximise your ETA’s full two-year duration!
2. Can families apply for a joint UK ETA?
No, each traveller needs their own ETA, including children and infants. However, you can apply on behalf of someone else, such as a family member or dependent.
- Every individual requires a separate ETA – even babies.
- Parents or guardians can apply for children – ensure you have their passport details ready.
- Apply in advance to avoid delays, especially for family trips.
Planning a family holiday? Make sure everyone has their ETA approved before travel!
3. Does a UK ETA allow unlimited stays?
No, a UK ETA only permits short stays of up to six months per visit.
- You cannot stay indefinitely.
- It covers tourism, business, short-term study, or transit.
- Each visit must comply with UK entry rules – overstaying could affect future travel.
Need to stay longer? You’ll need a visa instead.
4. Do travellers need an ETA for layovers in the UK?
- Airside transit (no border control) – ETA not required (temporary exemption from 16 January 2025).
- Landside transit (passing through border control) – ETA required.
- All travellers transiting through the UK usually need an ETA, even for short layovers.
- Temporary exemption: Airside passengers (who do not pass through UK border control) are currently exempt, but this may change.
5. Does this mean I need pre-approval to enter Europe?
The ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) is a new entry requirement for visa-exempt travellers visiting the Schengen Zone.
- Expected to launch in 2025 after multiple delays.
- Functions like the UK ETA, requiring pre-travel authorisation.
- More details will be released as the launch date approaches.
6. Can I get an ETA at the airport?
No, ETAs must be obtained before travel.
- Applications are completed online only – you cannot apply at the airport.
- Approval is required before boarding your flight to the UK.
7. How long does it take to get an ETA?
Most ETA applications are processed within three business days, but it’s always best to apply well in advance to avoid any last-minute delays.
8. What happens if I try to enter the UK without an ETA?
If you attempt to travel to the UK without a valid ETA (and you’re from a country that requires one), you will be denied boarding at your departure airport or refused entry upon arrival in the UK.
Important dates to note
- 27 November 2024 – ETA applications open for eligible non-European travellers.
- 8 January 2025 – Travellers from the U.S., Canada, and other eligible countries must have an ETA to enter the UK.
- 5 March 2025 – European nationals can begin applying for an ETA.
- 2 April 2025 – European nationals will need an ETA to travel to the UK.
Navigating the UK’s new ETA rules with ease
The UK’s new ETA rules mean extra steps for business travellers—but we’ve got you covered. From seamless applications to tailored travel solutions, Holiday Tours ensures your team stays compliant and stress-free. With our expertise in corporate travel, we’ll handle the details so you can focus on business.
Get up to date with the latest travel requirements with our travel tools, powered by Sherpa.
TRAVEL STRESS-FREE WITH HOLIDAY TOURS
REACH OUT TO US AT +603 2303 9100 (PRESS 3) OR [email protected]