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
All non-EU citizens wishing to travel to the UK are 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
All EU citizens wishing to travel to the UK from April, 2nd 2025 onwards are 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.
Exemptions
Passengers in the following categories are exempt from applying for an ETA:
- visa holders,
- people with permission to live, work or study in the UK,
- people transiting through a UK airport and not passing through the border control,
- British or Irish citizens,
- people with a British overseas territories passport,
- people with a British National (Overseas) passport,
- people exempt from immigration control,
- dual citizens with British or Irish citizenship.
For further information, please check the website of the UK Government