The government made an announcement on 10th September 2024 that they will be extending the scope of the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), and will require nationals from the countries listed below to apply for it before they travel to the UK.
What is the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation?
The UK Electronic Travel Authorisation is an electronic system that grants permission to travel to the UK. It is similar to systems used in other countries, such as the ESTA in the United States or Canada’s eTA. The ETA is part of the UK's efforts to modernise its border controls and ensure that only eligible individuals can enter the country. The ETA system aims to enhance border security while making it easier for eligible visitors to enter the country.
Who Needs an ETA?
The ETA is required for travelers from countries that do not need a visa to enter the UK. The UK government first launched the system on 15th November 2023, and it underwent a trial period that included several countries from the Middle East, such as Qatar, Bahrain, UAE, Oman, Kuwait and Saudi Arabia.
The government has now announced that from 8th January 2025, 49 countries would be added to the list of nationals requiring the ETA before travelling to the UK.
The list of countries that the ETA will apply to are:
| Antigua and Barbuda | Hong Kong | Peru |
| Argentine | Japan | Samoa |
| Australia | Kiribati | Seychelles |
| The Bahamas | Macao | Singapore |
| Barbados | Malaysia | Solomon Islands |
| Belize | Maldives | South Korea |
| Botswana | Marshall Islands | St Kitts and Nevis |
| Brazil | Mauritius | St Lucia |
| Brunei | Mexico | St Vincent & Grenadines |
| Canada | Micronesia | Taiwan |
| Chile | Nauru | Tonga |
| Colombia | New Zealand | Trinidad & Tobago |
| Costa Rica | Nicaragua | Tuvalu |
| Grenada | Palau | United States |
| Guatemala | Panama | Uruguay |
| Guyana | Papua New Guinea | |
| Israel | Paraguay |
The announcement also stated that countries from Europe and the EU will require the ETA from 2nd April 2025 onwards.
How to Apply
Applying for an ETA will be a straightforward process that can be completed online. Here are the steps applicants will need to follow:
- Visit the Official UK government website dedicated to the ETA application.
- Fill Out the online Application Form with details such as, personal details, passport information, and travel plans. Ensure that all information is accurate and matches travel documents that will be used.
- Pay the Application Fee. At present the government have set the amount at £10, although that may be subject to change in the future. Payment can be made using a credit or debit card.
- Submit the Application and the applicants will receive a confirmation email with a reference number.
The government has stated that the processing time for an ETA is meant to be done within 3 working days, and it may occasionally take longer if they need to conduct further checks. It will be advisable to apply at least a few days before the intended planned travel date.
How Long is the ETA Valid?
The ETA will typically be valid for two years, allowing multiple entries to the UK within that time. This means that if you travel frequently within the 2-year period, you will not need to reapply for each trip until it expires.
