new uk travel rules eta

Blog Home Office in the media

This blog post was published under the 2015-2024 Conservative Administration

https://homeofficemedia.blog.gov.uk/2024/02/01/electronic-travel-authorisation-eta-scheme-factsheet-february-2024/

Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme factsheet – February 2024

The Government’s number one priority is keeping the UK safe. To strengthen the security of our border and improve travel, the UK has launched an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme - an ETA is a digital permission to travel to the UK.

ETAs are being introduced as part of our transformation and digitisation of the UK border. They will enable a more efficient customer experience and cement the UK as a world leader in border security.

The ETA scheme is broadly for visitors who do not need a visa for short stays to the UK, or who do not already have a UK immigration status prior to travelling.

The scheme is open for nationals of Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Jordan, who need an ETA to travel to the UK. Other nationalities cannot and do not need to apply yet.

An ETA costs £10, permits multiple journeys and is valid for two years or until the holder’s passport expires – whichever is sooner.​​

The ETA scheme will be introduced worldwide for visitors to the UK who do not currently need a visa for short stays, including European nationals.

We will confirm the timings in due course for when remaining eligible nationalities will need an ETA, and we will ensure they have sufficient time to prepare.

How much does an ETA cost?

• An ETA costs £10.
• This cost is competitive and comparable with similar international schemes by international partners.
• As with all our fees, we will keep the cost of an ETA under review.

How do people apply for an ETA?

• The application process is simple and fast. Applicants usually get a decision within three working days, but they may get a quicker decision.
• The easiest way to apply for an ETA is through the ‘UK ETA app’. Individuals can also search for ‘Apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation to come to the UK’ on GOV.UK if they do not have access to a smartphone.
• Provide contact and passport details
• Provide a valid photo, complying with our rules for digital photos on  GOV.UK
• Answer a set of questions
• Individuals must travel using the same passport they used when they applied for an ETA.

How many visitors will this impact?

• The ETA scheme will broadly apply to visitors who do not  need a visa  for short stays and who do not have any other UK immigration status prior to travelling to the UK.

How does an ETA help UK border security?

• Those applying for an ETA provide their biographic, biometric and contact details, and answer a short set of suitability questions. This will increase our knowledge about those seeking to come to the UK and prevent the arrival of those who present a threat.

What happens if someone is refused an ETA?

• If an individual’s ETA application is refused, they will need to  apply for a visa  if they wish to seek permission come to the UK.

How does the scheme work in the context of the Ireland-Northern Ireland border?   

• British and Irish citizens do not require an ETA.
• The Common Travel Area (CTA) facilitates movement of people between the United Kingdom, the Crown Dependencies and Ireland.
• As is the case now, the UK will not operate routine immigration controls on journeys from within the Common Travel Area, with no immigration controls whatsoever on the Ireland-Northern Ireland land border.
• All individuals arriving in the UK, including those crossing the land border into Northern Ireland, will continue to need to enter in line with the UK’s immigration framework, including the need to obtain an ETA if required.
• People who are legally resident in Ireland and from a nationality that does not usually require a visa to visit the UK (e.g. EEA and US nationals), do not require an ETA when travelling to the UK from within the CTA, provided they hold acceptable evidence of their residence status. Full guidance on this can be found at  GOV.UK . However, when such residents are travelling to the UK from outside of the CTA, they will require an ETA before travel.
• Once granted, an ETA will be valid for multiple journeys for up to two years, including those across the Ireland-Northern Ireland border whilst protecting the Common Travel Area from abuse.

Are Electronic Visa Waivers still valid?

• ETAs have replaced the Electronic Visa Waiver scheme (EVW) for nationals of Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. The ETA is an improvement on the EVW costing £10 and permitting multiple journeys to the UK over two years or until the holder’s passport expires – whichever is sooner.
• Nationals of Qatar, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain, Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates need an ETA to travel to the UK.

Are ETAs needed by those transiting through the UK? If so, why? 

• Strengthening our border remains one of the Government’s top priorities. The ETA scheme will give us a comprehensive understanding of those travelling to the UK and the ability to prevent the travel of those who pose a threat, including those who are transiting through UK airports.
• Requiring transit passengers to obtain an ETA stops people who may use connecting flights to avoid gaining permission to travel to the UK. We are keeping this under review as we continue to roll out the scheme.

Further guidance on the ETA scheme is available on GOV.UK .

Tags: Electronic Travel Authorisation , ETA

Sharing and comments

Share this page, related content and links, about this blog.

Home Office in the media is the Home Office's blog on the latest topical home affairs issues. It features a review of leading media stories, responses to breaking news, rebuttal to inaccurate reports, and ministerial comment.

Find out more about the blog.

Sign up and manage updates

• Twitter @UKHomeOffice

Recent Posts

• Latest statement in response to small boat crossings 27 August 2024
• Reducing Net Migration Factsheet – May 2024 23 May 2024
• Independent Review of political violence and disruption: Home Secretary Statement 21 May 2024

Other useful websites

• Home Office
• Media enquiries - Home Office
• Border Force
• HM Passport Office
• Disclosure and Barring Service
• General Register Office

Comments and moderation

• Information for...

What are you looking for?

The uk’s new electronic travel authorisation (eta) scheme is now open.

In March 2023, the Home Office announced that people travelling to the UK without a visa will soon need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).

In June 2023, the Home Office announced the ETA will cost £10 per applicant. The ETA will permit multiple journeys and be valid for two years or until the holder’s passport expires – whichever is sooner.

The ETA scheme will be implemented in a phased manner, over the next two years. From 15 November 2023, nationals of Qatar can apply for an ETA to travel to the UK. ETAs will replace the Electronic Visa Waiver scheme for Qatari nationals.

From 1 February, nationals of Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia can apply for an ETA to travel to the UK on or after 22 February 2024.

Further details of who will require an ETA, which countries will be rolled out next, how to apply, and other information is available on Gov.uk .

The   Home Office is hosting a series of sector events on the ETA scheme. Events are open to all who wish to attend any session. See below for sector event times.

Home Office ETA Webinars

The   Home Office is hosting a series of sector events on the ETA scheme. Events are open to all who wish to attend and free of charge. See below for sector event times.

The Home Office is also running webinars focused on the ETA roll-out in the GCC and Jordan. These webinars are open to all and free to attend.

Find out more about the ETA

Open video player: What is an Electronic Travel Authorisation?

You must accept "Targeting" cookies from Cookie Settings in order to watch this video, as YouTube automatically sets cookies of this type.

Discover more

Visitbritain partners with the national lottery in campaign to boost domestic tourism.

VisitBritain and The National Lottery have teamed up to launch a new promotion to encourage Brits to visit an attraction this summer, offering £25 toward trips to hundreds of top attractions across the UK.

VisitBritain/Thames Rockets

Explore our curated information for...

Everything you need to inspire your clients. Discover new products, experiences and itinerary ideas – plus useful resources and the latest market insights.

Reach new customers and increase your profitability. Drive sales with our tools, events and training, find out about quality assessment and get expert guidance from the England Business Advice Hub.

Build sustainable and valuable growth. Learn about England’s new destination management structure, find expert advice, and boost your proposition with our training and toolkits.

Access resources for business events to support your business development and event strategy. Discover England, Scotland and Wales' business event offering for your next conference, incentive, exhibition or event.

Discover our media centres, image and video library and latest press releases, plus contacts for our corporate and consumer press teams.

Studying tourism at school, college or university? We’ve gathered essential resources and data for students of tourism, plus information about our internships.

What travelers should know about the UK's new entry fee

Jun 15, 2023 • 4 min read

The UK is introducing a pre-travel authorization system © Getty Images

If you have plans to travel to any country within the UK ( England , Scotland , Wales or Northern Ireland ), you'll need to pay an entry fee starting in 2024.

The new Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) , as it's called, will cost about £10 ($12.50 )  and will be fully implemented at the end of 2024 as the UK continues to digitalize its border control systems. The ETA will require some visitors to apply for an electronic pass to enter the UK for tourism, short-term business, transit and other common travel purposes.

It's a completely electronic system, based on the  United States' ESTA system , so you won't have to get bogged down on paperwork. Just as British travelers need to sign up for ESTA online before entering the US, Americans will likely be required to do the same for travel to the UK. 

So, how will the ETA work when it's implemented? It's not yet clear exactly what screening criteria will be used to grant an ETA but passengers will more than likely be asked to register passport information and answer a series of security questions online to determine eligibility.

Assuming you are successful, you will be issued with a pass which, combined with your passport, entitles you to visit the UK for a specific period.

Do you need a visa to go to the United Kingdom?

Here's what we know so far.

Who will need an ETA to enter the UK?

According to the government, the ETA applies to people who are eligible to travel to the UK without a visa. So that is anyone arriving for tourism purposes, visiting family or friends, or traveling to the UK for business or study for up to six months. It also applies to people eligible for the Creative Worker visa concession  and anyone transiting through the UK .

The UK is rolling out the new system in phases. Starting November 15, it will apply to visitors from Qatar. Then from February 22, 2024, it will be extended to citizens from Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

The UK government has not listed additional countries included in the scheme but it is expected to be applied to all foreign visitors who currently have visa-free access to the UK, such as European Union citizens and people from the US, Australia, Hong Kong, Brazil, Argentina, Israel, South Korea, Canada, New Zealand, Singapore and more before the end of 2024.

Irish citizens are excluded from the ETA requirement due to the Common Travel Agreement between the UK and Ireland.

Is the ETA a visa?

No. Nationals from some countries will still be required to apply for a visa and visa applications will continue to operate as before. The ETA is a pre-authorization system for travel that will apply to people from countries that currently have visa-free travel agreements with the UK. 

"The scheme will give the UK more control of our borders, allowing us to block threats from entering the UK while also providing individuals and carriers with more assurance at an earlier point in time about their ability to travel to the UK," the government stated.

How much will it cost to apply?

It will cost £10 to apply, which works out to about $12.50 or €8.50.

How soon before traveling should I apply for my ETA?

The ETA will take up to 72 hours to be approved. ETAs will be valid for visa-free travel for up to six months in the UK.

How long will my ETA be valid for?

Two years — so you'll need to reapply every two years for renewed access to the UK or whenever your passport expires.

Will my ETA grant me access to European countries?

No, the ETA is valid for entry to the UK only. If you are a non-EU citizen and you're eligible to visit the European Schengen Zone without a visa for a short-term stay, you'll soon need to apply for a similar permit. That's called an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) and it is expected to be rolled out early next year. That one will cost about €7 (or $7.50). As the UK is no longer part of the EU, British travelers will also have to apply for an ETIAS to travel to much of Europe when the new system is in place. 

Explore related stories

Oct 10, 2023 • 5 min read

The European Parliament has taken initial steps toward banning fees for carry-on luggage. Is that a good thing for travelers?

Jul 19, 2023 • 7 min read

May 27, 2023 • 10 min read

Mar 24, 2023 • 5 min read

Dec 7, 2022 • 4 min read

Jul 26, 2022 • 4 min read

May 13, 2022 • 3 min read

May 3, 2022 • 3 min read

Apr 8, 2022 • 8 min read

Mar 14, 2022 • 2 min read

Europe Chevron

United Kingdom Chevron

U.S. Travelers Will Soon Have to Pay to Enter the U.K.

U.S. visitors—as well as visitors from Europe , Australia and Canada —will soon be required to apply for permission to enter the U.K. through a new scheme known as Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).

The U.K. government is in the process of fully digitizing U.K. borders by the end of 2025—and the ETA scheme will play its part, allowing “individuals, and carriers, with more assurance at an earlier point in time about their ability to travel to the U.K.,” the government said.

The scheme will be in place by the end of this year (2023), and visitors will be required to fill out an online application granting them permission to travel. There will be a small fee included in the application—similar to how the U.S.'s own ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) system works for U.K. travelers.

Here's everything we know.

Will I need a visa to enter the U.K.?

This isn't technically a visa—the ETA system will grant travelers permission to enter the country. You will need to apply for an ETA prior to arrival. If you haven't received permission to travel before arrival, you may get fined.

Travelers from the U.S. will soon need to apply for permission to enter the U.K.

How long will it take to get an ETA?

Travelers will be advised to apply for an ETA at least a few days before their journey. Approval should be granted within 72 hours of application.

How long will an ETA last?

After your ETA has been approved, visitors will be granted permission to stay in the U.K. for six months, whether for business or tourism reasons.

The U.K. government is yet to confirm how often visitors will need to apply for a new ETA, but it's likely to be valid for two years—meaning there's no need to apply for a new one every time you visit within the valid time period.

Visitors with valid ETAs can stay—and travel—in U.K. for up to six months.

How much will an ETA cost?

We don't know yet—but the government has said that the cost will be small. The EU implemented a similar system in 2022, which costs €7. A U.S. ESTA, meanwhile, costs $21.

Who will need to apply for an ETA?

The full list of nations included hasn't been announced yet. We do know that U.S. citizens who don't hold a visa will need to apply for an ETA, as will other visa-exempt nations such as Canada and Australia. European countries are likely to be included, too.  Those traveling from nationalities without a visa-free agreement with the UK will still need to apply for another applicable type of UK visa.

What will I need to apply for an ETA?

You'll need a valid passport , an email address to register with, and to supply the details of your travel, as well as a valid debit or credit card to pay any fees to apply.

To keep up to date with the latest information on the ETA scheme, check the official website for more details as they become available.

This article originally appeared on Condé Nast Traveller U.K.  

Recommended

Rusacks St. Andrews

Middleton Lodge

Europe Travel Guide

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

Visiting the UK Will Soon Require an Online Application With a Fee — What to Know

The UK's Electronic Travel Authorisation will be fully rolled out by the end of 2023.

Travelers to the United Kingdom will soon have to apply in advance and pay to enter the country when the Electronic Travel Authorisation visa waiver goes into effect later this year.

The UK’s ETA system, which will be fully rolled out by the end of 2023, will require all non-visa foreign visitors (including those from the United States) to apply online in advance of coming, according to the government’s ETA website . 

The rollout of the ETA is part of the UK’s effort to fully digitize its borders by 2025.

“Our number one priority is the security of the UK border and by launching ETAs we can ensure that everyone wishing to travel to the UK has permission to do so in advance of travel and refuse those who pose a threat,” the UK’s Home Secretary Priti Patel said in a statement .

To apply, travelers will need to provide personal details, passport information, and security information. Applications will then be processed automatically and travelers should expect a response typically within 48 to 72 hours.

Alexander Spatari/Getty Images

The cost for the application was not immediately clear and was expected to be announced at a later date.

The ETA will first be rolled out to several Gulf countries, including the United Arab Emirates , Qatar , Bahrain, and more.

The rollout of the ETA comes as Europe plans to implement its new European Travel Information and Authorisation System (or ETIAS) in November. That authorization will include a €7 fee and apply to foreign visitors 18 to 70 years old.

In the U.S., visitors must also apply for a similar authorization before coming: the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (or ESTA), which is available to travelers from countries granted a Visa Waiver Program. Last year, the fee for ESTA increased from $14 to $21, according to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection .

Related Articles

The UK's Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA): Explained

The United Kingdom will start to roll out an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) programme from autumn 2023. The ETA is a new requirement for people who don’t need a visa to come to the UK, but will give permission for travellers to visit.

In these insights we’ll share:

·        What is the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)?

·        Who will need a UK ETA?

·        How do you get a UK ETA?

·        How much does a UK ETA cost?

What is the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)?

The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) works similarly to the US ESTA and the European Union’s ETIAS , working as a security measure for those travelling to the UK that don’t need a visa.

Those that apply for a ETA will be given permission to enter the UK, and be able to:

• Spend up to six months in the UK for tourism, visiting friends and family, business or study.
• Spend up to three months in the UK on the Creative Worker visa concession.
• Transit through the UK.

An approved ETA will be valid for two years and can be used for multiple visits to the UK. If a traveller gets a new passport in that time, they will need to get a new ETA.

Who will need an ETA?

The ETA will initially be required for travellers visiting from various countries in the Middle East and replaces the current Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW) scheme.

From 15 November 2023, Qatari visitors will be required to hold an ETA to enter the UK. Applications will open 25 October 2023. 

Then from 22nd February 2024, you’ll need an ETA if you’re a national of these countries:

• Saudi Arabia
• United Arab Emirates

More countries will be added to the scheme later in 2024.

Who will not need an ETA?

Those with a British or Irish passport will not need to apply for an ETA. You also don’t have to apply if you already have permission to live, work or study in the UK, or if you have a visa to enter the UK. 

If you’re a legal resident of Ireland and don’t need a visa to visit the UK, you won’t need an ETA if you’re entering the UK from Ireland, Guernsey, Jersey or Isle of Man.

How do you get an UK ETA?

There will be an UK ETA app, or travellers can apply on  www.gov.uk . You can apply on behalf of others. 

After filling in the form, travellers are expected to get a decision within three working days. It may take longer if further checks are needed.

If approved, travellers will get an email confirmation to their decided email address, and the ETA will be electronically linked to the passport they applied with.

If it’s refused, travellers will either need to apply for a standard visa, apply for a temporary work visa, or get a transit visa.    

How much does a UK ETA cost?

A UK ETA will cost £10. 

How long is the ETA valid for? 

Once approved, the UK ETA will be valid for two years, and can be used for multiple visits to the UK. 

If your passport expires during that period, you will need to get a new ETA.  

Where can I find more information? 

Full details are on the  UK Government's website here .

Need a travel partner that knows all the travel rules? Let’s talk

The UK's Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) Scheme - your questions answered

2023 will see the introduction of the UK’s Electronic Authorisation (ETA) scheme. The scheme was announced in February 2022, when the UK government issued a policy paper confirming that:

‘As part of our transformation of the border and immigration system, we are introducing a universal ‘permission to travel’ requirement, which will require everyone wishing to travel to the UK (except British and Irish citizens) to seek permission in advance of travel.’

In order to request permission to travel, individuals will need to apply through the ETA scheme, which is similar to the systems already used by the USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. The government is hoping that the scheme will ‘give the UK more control of our borders’ .

The UK’s ETA scheme is not yet in force; it will come into force from 15 November 2023 (applications open from 25 October 2023) for nationals of Qatar, and then from 22 February 2024, citizens of Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia and UAE will need an ETA to travel to the UK. Other nationalities (those who can travel to the UK without a visa) will be added to the scheme on a later date. Ensuring the scheme is fully in operation by late 2024 would coincide with the expiry of many Biometric Residence Permits and Cards, and the government’s expectation that immigration status will be electronic from 01 January 2025, so I guess the government is working towards having all nationalities added to the scheme by late 2024.

Here are some some answers to FAQs in relation to the ETA scheme below, so that businesses and individuals can take steps to prepare for the introduction of the scheme.

What is the ETA scheme?

The purpose of the ETA scheme is to screen visitors before they arrive in the UK; those travelling to the UK will need to complete an online ETA application, and unless complex, most applications will be processed automatically.

Who will need to secure ETA approval?

The ETA scheme will apply to individuals visiting the UK for tourism, business, transit purposes, short-term study and medical treatment. As mentioned above, the scheme will only apply to non-visa nationals. This includes individuals from the EU, other European countries (Andorra, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Monaco, Norway, Switzerland and Vatican City), and other visa-exempt countries - essentially visitors from countries who do not need to apply for a visit visa before travelling to the UK.

The scheme will be rolled out in phases; as noted above, Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries will be the first nationalities to use the ETA scheme in 2023 and 2024.

Will biometric information need to be supplied?

Applicants will not need to attend a Visa Application Centre to provide biometric information, but must provide a passport-size facial image as part of the application process.

Will I need to provide any documents?

No, although you will need access to a valid passport (information from the passport will be entered onto the application), email address and facial image.

How long will ETA approval last?

The ETA will be valid for two years. If visiting on more than one occasion and a previous ETA approval remains valid, further ETA approval is not necessary, although if your passport expires before the ETA has expired, a new ETA will need to be secured using the new passport details.

When will I need to apply to the ETA scheme?

Information currently available online indicates that decisions are usually issued within 3 working days, but if additional checks are necessary, it may take longer than 3 working days for a decision to be issued. Due to delays with immigration cases generally, we’d advise that ETA applications are submitted with as much notice as possible.

How long will it take to complete the application?

The ETA website confirms that it will take just a few minutes to complete the online application.

Will the ETA scheme application attract a fee?

Yes - £10 per applicant.

How will ETA decisions be issued?

By email – if successful, the ETA will be electronically linked to the passport used to secure the ETA.

What if I forget to apply to the ETA scheme?

You won’t be able to travel to the UK if you’re a national of a country who must secure ETA approval. The UK government will use interactive Advance Passenger Information (API) to check a passenger has ETA approval, and is hoping to be able to provide an electronic message to the carrier so the carrier is aware who already has approval. Carriers will be liable to a penalty charge if they allow an individual to travel without ETA approval.

Can ETA’s be refused?

Yes - to secure an ETA, those travelling to the UK will need to comply with requirements contained in Appendix Electronic Travel Authorisation of the Immigration Rules. An ETA could be refused if a valid ETA application isn’t submitted, or if the Home Office considers that an Applicant is not suitable for an ETA. Suitability could prevent an individual from securing an ETA if:

• They are the subject of an exclusion or deportation order
• They have a criminal conviction
• Their presence in the UK is not conducive to the public good
• They have previously breached immigration laws
• They have made false representations or not disclosed material facts
• They are in debt to the NHS
• They have unpaid litigation costs which were awarded to the Home Office

If an ETA is refused, you’d need to apply for a visa before travelling to the UK – depending on the reasons why ETA approval has been refused, there is a risk that a visa application will also be refused, so seek legal advice about this.

Anything else to be aware of?

Be aware that the Nationality and Borders Bill will make it a criminal offence to use deception to obtain, or to try to obtain, an ETA.

Latitude Law’s specialist team helps many individuals and international businesses and organisations with enquiries in relation to visitors coming to the UK. If you would like to speak to one of our experts concerning your UK visit, call us now on 0300 131 6767 or complete our enquiry form below.

Contact us now to arrange a FREE initial consultation with an experienced UK-inbound immigration lawyer

Call on 0300 131 6767 or complete our contact form and we will get back to you within 1 working day.

Your information will be used in accordance with the privacy policy

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

Visitors To The UK Will Soon Need Permission To Enter — The Key Step You Need To Take Before Entering The Country

• News and Tips
• Travel News

The United Kingdom is changing its entry requirements, bringing its processes into the digital age while also forcing all international travelers to have permission before entering the country.

Government officials announced this month that entry processes will be completely digital by 2025 thanks to the launch of ETA UK , a new electronic authorization system.

What Is ETA?

The Electronic Travel Authorization will allow visitors to get pre-authorized to enter the country before they arrive. They will sign on to the system and provide basic information, passport data, and some security information on the online application form.

Applications will then be processed and approved automatically, with complex issues determined by ETA officials.

The system will allow visitors to apply anytime before their arrival and avoid visiting a UK embassy.

When Does It Begin?

While all entry processes are targeted for digital completion by 2025, the ETA UK portion will roll out in the coming months. Officials expect it to be completely operational by the end of the year.

Once that occurs, ETA UK will be the only system available for entry.

Who Is Required To Use It?

ETA UK is for all Europeans and other non-visa nationals, including residents of the United States. Other than European nations, there are about 60 countries that fall under the non-visa category.

What Is The Purpose?

Officials say that the ETA UK will help with border control, giving them a clearer picture of how many people are entering the country and where they have come from.

Officials also believe it is a safety issue since applicants are pre-screened before entry.

“Our number one priority is the security of the UK border, and by launching ETAs, we can ensure that everyone wishing to travel to the UK has permission to do so in advance of travel and refuse those who pose a threat,” Home Secretary Priti Patel said in a release . 

How Long Is It Valid?

UK officials have not announced details on the length of stay. However, their goal in introducing the system has been to model it after similar systems in other countries, including the United States ESTA program.

ETA UK is expected to be valid for 2 years and allow for multiple trips in and out of the country. The current visa system allows visitors to stay for 6 months.

For more travel news, check out these stories:

• The Beautiful Ice Maze You’ll Love Getting Lost In This Winter — Here’s Where To Find It
• A Key Change For New Orleans’s Famous Mardi Gras Parades — The Decision To Let The Good Times Roll Even More
• 4 Unique Tours To Experience That Will Immerse You In Black Culture

Greg Robertson has worked as an editor and writer for some of the top newspapers and websites in the country, leading him to live all across the country. He now calls Las Vegas home, but has journeyed from the sunshine of California and the rain in Seattle, to the humidity of Arkansas and the snow of Minnesota. His travels have taken him to Puerto Vallarta, Costa Rica, Spain, and the Dominican Republic, but he's happiest at home with his wife, two daughters, and dog.

• Individual Immigration
• Business Immigration
• European Immigration
• Worldwide Immigration
• New UK Rules
• News & Views
• Sim Client Login

Sim login English 简体中文

Latest News

29 August 2024

Immigration in Numbers: Latest UK visa statistics

Ukvi launches new super priority visa service in hong kong.

27 August 2024

EU confirms start date for Entry/Exit System (EES)

Prepare for the uk’s new electronic travel authorisation (eta) scheme.

15 February 2024

The UK’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme has now opened for Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and Jordanian nationals who are travelling to the UK from 22 February 2024.

This latest stage of the ETA’s implementation timeline follows the successful launch of the scheme for Qatari nationals, who have been able to benefit since October 2023.

The change will make travel to the UK smoother and cheaper for these passengers, as ETAs replace Electronic Visa Waivers (EVW) and remove the visa requirement for short stays to the UK for GCC and Jordanian nationals.

Nationals of Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain and Jordan can now make unlimited visits to the UK over a 2-year period, or until the holder’s passport expires – whichever is sooner, for just £10. Previously, Gulf nationals paid £30 through the Electronic Visa Waiver scheme and Jordanians paid £115 for a single-use visitor visa.

Home Secretary, James Cleverly, said: “The ETA will improve the experience of travelling to the UK for the thousands of visitors from the Gulf and Jordan, who represent our second largest tourism market and contribute billions to the UK economy. The scheme is a vital step on our path to cementing the UK’s position as a world leader in border innovation and security.”

The ETA is being rolled out in phases and will continue to expand to all eligible nationalities throughout 2024. Once fully implemented, the scheme will apply to visitors to the UK who do not need a visa for stays of less than six months, or who do not have a valid UK immigration status prior to travelling.

Nationals of the countries listed above should ensure they are aware of the application procedure for an ETA, as this is now an essential requirement to travel to the UK.

Why is the ETA scheme being introduced?

The ETA is part of the UK government’s plans to strengthen and digitise the UK border and immigration system.

An ETA is a digital permission to travel, which enables the government to perform robust security checks on every visitor before they travel to the UK. The scheme will allow advance passenger information to be submitted to the Home Office, who in response will confirm whether the traveller has permission to travel to the UK.

The scheme is in line with the approach many other countries have taken to border security and will help prevent the arrival of those who present a threat to the UK.

Who needs an ETA?

The ETA applies to non-visa nationals , including:

• Infants and children
• Business or study visitors
• Those transiting through the UK
• T5 Creatives
• EEA and Swiss nationals.

If you do not currently need a visa to travel to the UK, you will require an ETA in the future.

You do not need an ETA if:

• You are a visa national (you will continue to require a visa for short stays)
• You have permission to live, work or study in the UK
• You hold a British or Irish passport
• You are legally resident in Ireland and you do not require a visa for travel to the UK
• You are exempt from immigration control.

How to apply for an ETA

The application process for an ETA is simple and fast, and most applicants will receive a response within 3 working days or even sooner.

The easiest way to apply for an ETA is through the ‘UK ETA app’. You can also search for ‘Apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation to come to the UK’ on GOV.UK if you do not have access to a smartphone.

To apply for an ETA, you will need to:

• Pay a fee (it costs £10 for each person applying)
• Provide contact and passport details
• Provide a valid photo, complying with the rules for digital photos on GOV.UK
• Answer a set of questions.

You should submit your application at least 3 days before you travel. If your application is successful, you will have permission to travel to the UK for two years or until your passport expires, whichever is sooner.

If your ETA application is refused, you will need to apply for a visa if you still wish to seek permission to come to the UK.

Support with UK immigration

Smith Stone Walters is keen to support your business in preparing for these changes. We recommend employers communicate these new travel requirements to their international business visitors, to ensure they are prepared for needing an ETA before they travel in the future.

For more information and support, please contact us today .

Share story

© 2024 Smith Stone Walters

• Terms and Conditions
• Privacy Notice
• Cookie Notice
• OISC registration number: F200100066

Site by Parallel

Cookies on GOV.UK

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We’d like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

You have accepted additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

You have rejected additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

UK unveils plans for travel scheme to bolster the border

The UK’s new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme will launch for Qatari visitors in October 2023

Picture courtesy of Getty Images.

Visitors from the Gulf Cooperation Council states, and Jordan, will be the first to benefit from the UK’s new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme, ahead of a worldwide expansion of the scheme throughout 2024. Qatari visitors will be the first to be able to apply for an ETA in October 2023.

By applying for an ETA in advance, visitors will benefit from smooth and efficient travel. The application process will be quick, light touch and entirely digital with most visitors applying via a mobile app and receiving a swift decision on their application. The cost of an ETA will be in line with similar international schemes, and individuals can make multiple visits to the UK over a 2-year validity period.

The scheme will also further strengthen our border, by ensuring robust security checks are conducted on every visitor pre-travel.

As part of the application process, individuals will need to provide biometric details and answer a set of suitability questions. This will ensure we have information on those seeking to come to the UK helping to prevent dangerous individuals, such as criminals, entering the UK.

Immigration Minister Robert Jenrick said:

Strengthening our border remains one of the Government’s top priorities.  ETAs will enhance our border security by increasing our knowledge about those seeking to come to the UK and preventing the arrival of those who pose a threat. It will also improve travel for legitimate visitors, with those visiting from Gulf Cooperation Council states being among the first to benefit.

After the initial launch for Qatar, visitors from the rest of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states and Jordan can apply for an ETA from February 2024. The new scheme will entirely replace the current Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW) Scheme which requires visitors to the UK from GCC states to pay a higher cost for a single-use visit.

By the end of 2024, ETAs will be a requirement worldwide for visitors who do not need a visa for short stays, including those visiting from Europe. Visitors from Europe, and other nations such as America and Australia do not currently need to make any form of application to visit to the UK, however this will be changing with the introduction of ETAs.

British and Irish nationals will not need an ETA to travel to the UK. As is currently the case however, individuals arriving in the UK via Ireland, will still be subject to UK immigration requirements, including the need for visitors to have an ETA. Those legally resident in Ireland will not need an ETA when travelling to the UK from within the Common Travel Area.

Share this page

The following links open in a new tab

• Share on Facebook (opens in new tab)
• Share on Twitter (opens in new tab)

Updates to this page

Is this page useful.

• Yes this page is useful
• No this page is not useful

Help us improve GOV.UK

Don’t include personal or financial information like your National Insurance number or credit card details.

To help us improve GOV.UK, we’d like to know more about your visit today. Please fill in this survey (opens in a new tab) .

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.

• Business immigration
• Civil Fraud
• Data protection & privacy
• Dispute resolution
• Employment & HRLaw
• Financial services regulatory
• Intellectual property
• Internal investigations
• International
• International Arbitration
• Partnerships & LLPs
• Real estate
• Regulatory & white-collar defence
• Securities Litigation
• Tax & incentives
• Technology & online
• Financial services
• Professional services
• Publishing & digital media

Home / Insights

A new ETA: Rules affecting travellers to the UK and the EU are changing

• News & deals
• Webinars on demand
• opens a new window

New rules affecting visitors to the UK will come into force from the end of 2024 with the introduction of the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) – these will affect travellers from the US and the EU who are coming to the UK to visit only, rather than coming to work. There are also new rules which govern travel to the EU with the The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS).

The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)

The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a new requirement for those visiting or transiting through the UK. The system is similar to the ESTA visa waiver system applicable to non US nationals visiting the US.   Visitors will need the ETA  in order to transit through the UK, stay for six months as a visitor, or stay for three months on the Creative Worker visa concession. The ETA will allow visitors to make multiple entries into the UK within two years of the grant, and will be electronically linked to the visitor’s passport. 

Below are some common questions on the ETA system:

Who Needs to Make a UK ETA Application?

The ETA is aimed at non visa nationals looking to visit the UK.  A non-visa national is any national who can enter the UK as a visitor for six months without having to apply for a visit visa beforehand. Basically, if you can turn up at the border and walk through the passport e-gates then you’re a non-visa national.

Does the UK ETA Scheme apply to visa nationals?

If you come from a country where you have to apply for a visit visa before entering the UK, such as India, China, or Pakistan, the UK ETA scheme does not apply to you. There is no indication that the process and requirements for visa nationals will change. 

Travel to the UK from the Middle East

While Qatari nationals have needed to apply for a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation since 25 October 2023, a different system called the the Electronic Visa Waiver system application process opened on 1 February 2024 for nationals of the following countries:

• United Arab Emirates
• Saudi Arabia

If you are from any of the above nations, you are currently able to apply for an Electronic Visa Waiver instead of a visitor visa.  The Electronic Visa Waiver system allows you to visit the UK once and stay for six months for tourism, business, study or medical treatment. 

The ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) is similar except it will allow you to enter the UK multiple times within a two year period or before the expiry date of your passport, whichever is earlier.

How to Apply for a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)

When you apply for a UK ETA you will need to pay an Electronic Travel Authorisation application fee of £10, provide your contact and passport details, a valid passport photo and answer a set of questions about suitability.

You can apply using the ETA App, or via an online form.

What Is the Processing Time for a UK ETA Application?

The Home Office states that it will aim to process UK ETA applications within three days. 

How is travel to Ireland from the UK affected?

If you are legally resident in Ireland and a non visa national, you will not be required to get a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation in order to cross the border from the Republic of Ireland into Northern Ireland. 

However, if you are a non-Irish resident of Ireland travelling to the UK from outside the Common Travel Area (United Kingdom, Ireland, Isle of Man, and the Channel Islands) you will need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation. 

Can an ETA request be refused and if so on what grounds?

It is important to disclose all relevant information when filling out an application for the ETA or indeed any immigration application. Failure to do so may not only result in a refusal of the ETA  but could have long term negative effects on a traveller’s ability to enter the UK.

The Immigration Rules state that an application for ETA must be refused in some circumstances, including on criminality grounds, where there has been a previous breach of immigration laws, where false representations were made, and where a UK ETA applicant has failed to pay charges on NHS use by overseas visitors.

Effects of refusal

If you are refused a UK ETA then you will need to apply for a standard visitor visa, a creative worker visa, or a transit visa, depending on your circumstances and the reason for your visit.

The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS)

There are also new rules which govern travel to the EU: a new automated system will pre-screen visa exempt travellers to the Schengen area, with the goal of identifying potential security threats before they can travel.  Again, this system is similar to the US ESTA and the Canadian ETA systems – it is not a visa, but rather a visa-waiver system.

The ETIAS system will :

• Apply to nationals of all countries who do not need a Schengen visa before entering the Schengen zone
• Apply to visa-exempt non EU nationals visiting for short periods (90/180 days)
• Require travellers to apply for an ETIAS travel authorisation before heading to any of the 30 European countries in the Schengen zone
• Require travellers to complete an application before travelling, aimed at taking approximately 10 minutes or less
• Third country nationals resident in any of the 30 Schengen countries are excluded from the scheme

Application process

Applicants can apply on the ETIAS website which supports mobile, desktop and mobile devices. The types of information requested includes:

• Biometric and personal data such as name, date of birth and gender
• Applicant contact details such as home address & email address
• Education history, such as primary, secondary, vocational schooling, university, or no education
• Travel document information, such as a passport or other document, including data such as the document number, issue date, expiry date, and country
• Current occupation or job, including title as well as contact details
• First EU member state of arrival
• Background questions relating to previous criminal activity, drug use, travel to conflict zones, as well as EU and non-EU immigration history

Third parties may apply on behalf of applicants, and this must be disclosed at the time of submitting the application.

There is a fee charged for ETIAS applications for travellers between the ages of 18 and 70 of €7 .  Every traveller, regardless of their age, will require an approved ETIAS prior to their arrival in the Schengen area.

ETIAS Approvals

Most ETIAS applicants will be notified either instantly or within a few hours of their approved authorisation. A valid ETIAS travel authorisation is linked to the applicant’s passport and has its own unique application number – it will be valid for three years or until the date of passport or travel document expiry, whichever is earlier.

ETIAS Refusals

Travellers arriving to the Schengen area by air, land or sea will be required to present a valid travel authorisation. Travellers without a passport from an EU member state, a valid ETIAS or a valid Schengen visa will be denied entry.

However, an approved ETIAS does not guarantee entry into an EU member state –  admissibility is determined by EU border officials. An approved ETIAS application can be revoked if the traveller was deemed to have obtained it using fraud or deception.  ETIAS applications will also be revoked as new alerts are received in the EU’s security databases due to a traveller being refused entry, or if they have lost or stolen travel documents.

Similarly, an ETIAS can be annulled if an ETIAS applicant’s circumstances change in regards to their eligibility, such as a recent criminal conviction, terrorist activity, or travel to conflict areas. An ETIAS will also be annulled in the case of the passport expiry, or name change of a traveller.

ETIAS is not yet in operation– there is a current target date of mid 2025.  There is to be a transition period of at least 6 months from the start date when ETIAS will not be a requirement, as well as a further grace period following that transition period. 

Sacha Schoenfeld

Follow us online.

• linkedin - opens a new window
• twitter - opens a new window
• youtube - opens a new window

Popular insights

Direct(or) responsibility: 10 ways a director could be held personally liable in 2022.

A recently published case has shone a new light on the well-known fact of English company law – that a company has its o...

Shareholder disputes: consensual and non-consensual ways to break the deadlock

ConsensualNon-consensualMediationAppointing an independent adviserNegotiating an exit to bridge the valuation gapAlterna...

Resale price maintenance – has the position changed?

Can price fixing in distribution agreements ever be lawful? A few months ago the European Court of Justice (“ECJ”) was a...

Related legal expertise

Need more information about the above people and legal expertise? Talk to one of our lawyers: +44 (0)20 7628 2000

Privacy Overview

Sign up to Simon Calder’s free travel email for expert advice and money-saving discounts

Get simon calder’s travel email, thanks for signing up to the simon calder’s travel email.

Malaysia has introduced new regulations requiring airlines to offer refunds to passengers if their flight is delayed by more than five hours.

These rules will also apply to passengers who choose not to take the delayed flight and buy a different one. The rules, set to come into effect from Monday, are meant to strengthen consumer rights in Malaysia.

Airlines have recently had issues in the country with flight delays and cancellations and national carrier Malaysia Airlines faced disruptions due to engine problems with its Airbus A330 fleet.

Malaysia’s transport minister Anthony Loke also stated that all cancelled flights must be removed from booking systems, including both online and offline travel agent platforms.

“This is to protect users from buying cancelled flight tickets,” he said at a news conference.

The policy is part of the revisions to the Malaysian Aviation Consumer Protection Code 2016, which will be officially published on 2 September.

Earlier this week, a statement from the managing director of Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), Izham Ismail, said that the conglomerate was reducing flights from now until the end of the year to address ongoing supply chain challenges, worker shortages, and technical issues.

MAG operates Malaysia Airlines (MH, Kuala Lumpur International), Firefly (FY, Penang), and the pilgrimage carrier Amal by Malaysia Airlines.

These flight reductions came after multiple disruptions occurred last week across all three airlines. The disruptions included a Malaysia Airlines A330-300, flying from Melbourne Airport in Australia to Kuala Lumpur, which had to make an emergency landing in Alice Springs in Australia’s Northern Territory due to engine issues.

Another Malaysia Airlines flight, heading to Madinah, was forced to return to Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) because of similar engine problems.

The Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) recently conducted an audit of Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) to investigate the causes of the recent delays, cancellations, and operational issues, Mr Loke said.

“We are taking very seriously concerns about what’s happening at MAG,” he said. “I am in touch with Izham Ismail, and I’ve asked him to make all the necessary follow-ups to ensure that operations are smooth.”

The Malaysian Aviation Commission will also continue to monitor airline performance to ensure compliance with industry standards, Mr Loke said.

Meanwhile, airlines in Malaysia that fail to comply with the new regulations could be fined up to 200,000 ringgit (approximately $46,000; £35,000), with even steeper penalties for repeat violations.

Similar measures have been implemented in the US, and Australia is considering reforms to enhance consumer rights in aviation. Earlier this year, the US department of transportation introduced rules that require airlines to display the full cost of tickets upfront, including all fees, and provide prompt cash refunds for cancelled or significantly changed flights.

The Australian government also introduced a new “Charter of Rights” this week that will allow airline customers to receive cash refunds for flights that are cancelled or unreasonably delayed. The initiative – part of the newly released Aviation White Paper – aims to revitalise the aviation sector after high costs and the collapse of two airlines, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation reported.

“The bottom line is if people don’t get the service that they are expecting, then customers deserve to get their money back or they deserve to get an equivalent service,” Australian transport minister Catherine King said.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article

Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.

New to The Independent?

Or if you would prefer:

Hi {{indy.fullName}}

• My Independent Premium
• Account details
• Help centre