Electronic Authorisation for travelling to the UK

The ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) is an electronic authorisation issued by the UK Government that grants access to the country for 2 years from the time of issue. To apply for it you must have a valid passport, travel details, email address and credit or debit card. The time taken to issue the document is 3 working days, but it is advisable to apply as far in advance as possible.

Non-EU citizens

From November 2024 all non-EU citizens wishing to travel to the UK from January, 8th 2025 onwards will be required to apply for an ETA and present it at the airport during pre-departure checks. Passengers without an ETA will not be allowed on board. 

EU citizens

From March 2025 all EU citizens wishing to travel to the UK from April, 2nd 2025 onwards will be required to apply for an ETA and present it at the airport during pre-departure screening. Passengers without an ETA will not be allowed on board.

For EU citizens travelling within the Schengen Area, the only two authorised identification documents are the passport or an ID card valid for international journeys. The same rules apply to minors, including infants.

For travel outside the European Union, however, it is necessary to show a passport and any visa required by the country of destination. Minors also need their own passport, issued by the police headquarters in their city.

Non-EU citizens wishing to travel within and outside Europe must have a passport and visa.

Passengers who present themselves at check-in or security checkpoints without the appropriate documents are not allowed on any SkyAlps flight and are not entitled to any refund for unused tickets, unless specifically authorised in writing by the police.