Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) Required for US Citizens Visiting the UK
Since April 2, 2025, the UK has implemented a new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system. This affects US citizens 🇺🇸 and travelers from several other visa-exempt countries who previously didn’t need a visa to enter the UK. Under the new rules, US nationals must apply for an ETA before visiting the UK for short stays.
What does this mean for travelers?
Until recently, many travelers—including US citizens—could visit the United Kingdom without needing a visa or any formal pre-travel approval. However, as part of the UK’s evolving border and immigration policies following Brexit, the British government has introduced a new system designed to enhance security and streamline entry procedures.
Starting from April 2025, US travelers are now required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before entering the UK for short stays, such as tourism, business, or transit. This new requirement aligns with similar systems already in place in other countries, like the ESTA for entry into the United States.
The ETA process involves a simple online application, a £59 fee, and a basic security screening. While it’s not a visa, the ETA is a mandatory permission that must be secured before departure. Planning a trip to the UK? Make sure you’ve completed your ETA application in advance to avoid any disruptions at the border.
Is ETA Required for My Trip to the UK?
Yes, US citizens now need an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) to visit the United Kingdom. If you’re planning to travel to the UK for Tourism, Business, Study, or Transit, you must apply for an ETA before your trip.
The ETA is a mandatory entry requirement for nationals of visa-exempt countries, including the United States. While it’s not a visa, it is an official travel authorization that must be obtained online prior to departure. Without an approved ETA, you may be denied boarding or entry into the UK.
How Does ETA Work?
- Online Application: Travelers will need to submit an application online before traveling. The process will include filling out a form, answering security questions, and paying a £59 fee.
- Processing Time: Most ETA requests will be processed within 8 to 72 hours.
- Security Check: A security check may be conducted, and in some cases, applications may take longer to process.
Who is required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to enter the United Kingdom?
ETA will be required for citizens from visa-exempt countries, including:
🇦🇩 Andorra • 🇦🇬 Antigua and Barbuda • 🇦🇷 Argentina • 🇦🇺 Australia • 🇦🇹 Austria • 🇧🇸 The Bahamas • 🇧🇭 Bahrain • 🇧🇧 Barbados • 🇧🇪 Belgium • 🇧🇿 Belize • 🇧🇼 Botswana • 🇧🇷 Brazil • 🇧🇳 Brunei • 🇧🇬 Bulgaria • 🇨🇦 Canada • 🇨🇱 Chile • 🇨🇷 Costa Rica • 🇭🇷 Croatia • 🇨🇾 Cyprus • 🇨🇿 Czechia • 🇩🇰 Denmark • 🇪🇪 Estonia • 🇫🇮 Finland • 🇫🇷 France • 🇩🇪 Germany • 🇬🇷 Greece • 🇬🇩 Grenada • 🇬🇹 Guatemala • 🇬🇾 Guyana • 🇭🇰 Hong Kong • 🇭🇺 Hungary • 🇮🇸 Iceland • 🇮🇹 Italy • 🇮🇱 Israel • 🇯🇵 Japan • 🇰🇮 Kiribati • 🇰🇼 Kuwait • 🇱🇻 Latvia • 🇱🇮 Liechtenstein • 🇱🇹 Lithuania • 🇱🇺 Luxembourg • 🇲🇴 Macao SAR • 🇲🇾 Malaysia • 🇲🇻 Maldives • 🇲🇹 Malta • 🇲🇭 Marshall Islands • 🇲🇺 Mauritius • 🇲🇽 Mexico • 🇫🇲 Micronesia • 🇲🇨 Monaco • 🇳🇷 Nauru • 🇳🇱 Netherlands • 🇳🇿 New Zealand • 🇳🇮 Nicaragua • 🇳🇴 Norway • 🇴🇲 Oman • 🇵🇼 Palau • 🇵🇦 Panama • 🇵🇬 Papua New Guinea • 🇵🇾 Paraguay • 🇵🇪 Peru • 🇵🇱 Poland • 🇵🇹 Portugal • 🇶🇦 Qatar • 🇷🇴 Romania • 🇼🇸 Samoa • 🇸🇲 San Marino • 🇸🇦 Saudi Arabia • 🇸🇨 Seychelles • 🇸🇬 Singapore • 🇸🇧 Solomon Islands • 🇰🇷 South Korea • 🇸🇰 Slovakia • 🇸🇮 Slovenia • 🇪🇸 Spain • 🇰🇳 St Kitts and Nevis • 🇱🇨 St Lucia • 🇻🇨 St Vincent and the Grenadines • 🇸🇪 Sweden • 🇨🇭 Switzerland • 🇹🇼 Taiwan • 🇹🇴 Tonga • 🇹🇻 Tuvalu • 🇦🇪 United Arab Emirates • 🇺🇸 United States • 🇺🇾 Uruguay • 🇻🇦 Vatican City
FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the UK ETA, and who needs it?
The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a system being introduced by the UK in April 2025. It applies to citizens of countries who previously did not need a visa, such as EU nations, and will cover short-term travel (tourism, business, transit, etc.).
2. When will ETA applications be open, and how much will it cost?
Applications for ETA will open in 2024, with implementation in April 2025. Our service fee is £59 per application.
3. How do I apply for an ETA, and how long does it take?
Applications will be made online via the UK government website or mobile app. The process involves filling out basic personal information, answering security questions, and paying the fee. Most applications will be processed within 8-72 hours.
4. How long is the ETA valid, and how many times can I travel on it?
The ETA is valid for 2 years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. It allows for multiple entries to the UK, with each visit lasting a maximum of 6 months.
5. Do I need to print my ETA?
No, the ETA is electronic and linked to your passport. Simply present the passport at the border, and your ETA will be verified automatically.
6. What happens if my ETA application is rejected?
If your ETA application is rejected, you may reapply or apply for a different visa type, such as a Standard Visitor Visa, which may involve a more detailed application process.
7. Will the ETA cover travel to Ireland or Schengen countries?
No, the ETA is valid only for travel to the UK, including England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Separate entry conditions apply for Ireland and Schengen countries.
8. Will children need their own ETA?
Yes, each traveler, including children, will need their own ETA linked to their passport.
9. Are there any exceptions to ETA requirements?
Yes, Irish citizens and individuals with long-term visas for work, study, or residence in the UK are exempt from ETA requirements.
10. What should I do if I have more questions?
If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us at info@visaeta.uk.
