The UK ETA Requirement
Ever since Brexit, it’s changed the way travelers from the EU can visit the UK. With the UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation), the United Kingdom enhances border control for visa-exempt visitors, including European countries. In time, the UK aims to fully digitize borders and strengthen national security.
“The introduction of ETAs is in line with the approach many other countries have taken to border security, including the US and Australia, and helps prevent the arrival of those who present a threat to the UK,” said the UK Home Office in a factsheet.
While Europe will implement ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) in 2026, the UK has rolled out the ETA. Hence, if you’re visiting the UK from the EU, then here is practical information.
What Is the UK ETA?
Specifically, The UK ETA is a digital travel pass for visitors who don’t need a visa. Basically, it’s mandatory before entering the UK.
Think of it like the U.S. ESTA or Canada’s eTA. In particular, the system screens travelers before they board, reducing illegal entries and boosting border efficiency.
According to the UK Home Office, the ETA will become fully mandatory for all eligible nationalities by the end of 2025.
You’ll need it if:
- You’re from the EU, EEA, or Switzerland.
- You’re from countries like the U.S., Canada, Australia, or New Zealand.
- You’re visiting the UK for tourism, business, transit, or short stays.
This means even European nationals—previously exempt—must now apply.
Who Needs a UK ETA?
Overall, all non-visa nationals will need an ETA. This includes European travelers, who now fall under these new post-Brexit travel protocols.
You’ll need a UK ETA if you’re from:
- EU or EEA countries
- Switzerland
- The U.S., Canada, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand
- Gulf states like Qatar, UAE, and Saudi Arabia
Important: If you’re from a country that requires a visa, then the ETA does not apply. Correspondingly, you’ll follow the standard visa process.
Also, Irish citizens are exempt, thanks to the Common Travel Area agreement.
EU Citizens Must Now Apply
Previously, before Brexit, EU citizens had freedom of movement across the UK. But that’s now history.
With the UK ETA, European travelers must get pre-authorisation before entering the country, even for a weekend getaway.
Overall, this is a major shift in how EU citizens interact with UK borders. Consequently, it adds cost, time, and paperwork.
And just as the UK is introducing the ETA, the European Union will introduce its own ETIAS in 2026. This means that UK citizens will need an ETIAS to enter the EU. Meanwhile, EU citizens will need a UK ETA to enter the UK.
How to Apply for a UK ETA
Overall, applying for an ETA is fairly straightforward. As such, you don’t need to visit an embassy or print anything.
Follow these steps:
Step 1: Visit the EVS platform. Notably, it simplifies the ETA application process so you can avoid going through complex visa processes.
At EVS, your personal and travel information remains safe and secure with its strict data protection regulations. Moreover, it provides you with expert guidance and seamless support to ensure a stress-free application journey.
Step 2: Upload a passport photo. It must have a plain, light-colored background without any shadows or objects behind you.
Step 3: Upload a scan or photo of your passport information page. Ensure the full passport photo page is inside the frame, including the two lines of numbers and letters at the bottom. Additionally, your passport must be valid for at least six months upon entering and exiting the UK.
Step 4: Provide your personal information:
- Contact details
- Home address
- Employment information
- Citizenship information
- Criminal history, if any
Overall, make sure that the information you provide matches what is on your passport.
Step 5: Review and confirm the information on your application. In particular, you can pay using suitable electronic payment methods such as Apple Pay, Google Pay, credit card, or debit card.
Step 6: Pay the application fee.
Step 7: Receive your UK ETA. Next, you will receive an email with the decision. Then the ETA will be linked to your passport digitally.
Once approved, the travel authorization is valid for multiple visits over a two-year period, or until your passport expires. Because mistakes can delay approval, make sure to triple-check all entries before you submit.
Ready to get started with your application? Then click the button below to obtain your ETA.
ETA for Non-European Travelers
The ETA doesn’t just affect Europeans. In fact, as we’ve already mentioned, visitors from other visa-free countries—like the U.S., Canada, and Australia—must also comply.
Overall, this ties into the broader keyword: “UK ETA non-European travel requirement.”
If you’re from a non-European country listed as visa-exempt for the UK, then you’ll need an ETA. The rollout is ongoing, but completion is expected by 2025.
What to Expect at the Border
With an approved ETA:
- You can travel freely for tourism, family visits, and short business trips.
- You’ll still face standard checks at border control.
- Immigration officers may ask for proof of accommodation or return travel.
To clarify, the ETA does not guarantee entry, as border officialls will decide final clearance.
Tips for European Travelers Post-Brexit
- Check ETA requirements early, especially if traveling with family.
- Make sure your passport is biometric and valid for your travel dates.
- Keep a digital copy and printout of your ETA.
- Be ready to show travel documents at the border.
The Bigger Picture
Both the UK ETA and the ETIAS are designed to screen travelers before arrival, enhancing border security and preventing illegal stays. The UK ETA applies to citizens from the EU and 92 non-visa countries, while the ETIAS targets non-EU travelers, including those from the UK.
In terms of validity, the UK ETA is valid for two years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. The ETIAS, on the other hand, is valid for three years or until the passport expires.
The UK began implementing its ETA system in 2024 through a phased rollout, while the ETIAS is set to start in 2026.
Both authorisation systems offer online applications for convenience.
Final Thoughts
Brexit introduced paperwork where there used to be none. But travel between the UK and Europe is still open—just more structured.
Whether you’re from Paris, Berlin, or Boston, the UK ETA is your new boarding pass.
Need an ETA? For fast, reliable, and profssional UK ETA processing, apply via the EVS platform.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a visa if I have a UK ETA?
No. The ETA is for visa-exempt travelers. If you need a visa, apply for one instead.
What happens if authorities deny my ETA application?
You’ll receive a reason and can appeal or apply for a standard visa.
Can I work in the UK with an ETA?
No. An ETA allows tourism, short business, or transit only—not employment.
Do children need a separate ETA?
Yes. All travelers, regardless of age, must have a valid ETA.
What if my passport expires before the ETA does?
You’ll need to reapply with your new passport. The ETA is tied to your passport number.
Are there non-EU European countries that need a UK ETA?
Yes. These include Andorra, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Monaco, Norway, San Marino, Switzerland, and the Vatican City.
Do transit passengers need ETA if they are passing through the UK?
As of January 2025, the UK has temporarily suspended the requirement for transit passengers.
Hence, if you’re transiting without entering the UK, then you don’t need an ETA. Specifically, this applies if you stay in the international transit zone. But if you pass through UK border control for any reason, even briefly, an ETA becomes mandatory.
Photo by Elizabeth Jamieson on Unsplash
