If you are planning to travel to the U.K. soon, you may need to apply for a travel authorization online before your trip. Beginning this week, the U.K. will mandate U.S. citizens, Canadian citizens, and individuals from over three dozen other countries to obtain an electronic travel authorization, known as an ETA.
The ETA serves as a pre-authorization for travelers from countries that do not require visas for entry into the U.K. Initially introduced in 2024 for visitors from Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, the program will now be extended to citizens of additional countries.
Upon arrival, travelers will still need to go through immigration clearance. Similar digital authorization requirements are in place in the U.S. for nationals from EU countries, the U.K., and other nations whose citizens do not need visas for entry. In the future, EU countries will also require U.S. citizens and individuals from other countries meeting similar criteria to obtain such authorizations.
An ETA is not necessary if you already possess a visa and are permitted to reside, work, or study in the U.K. The application for an ETA can be completed online using the U.K.’s ETA app, available for Android and iPhone users. The application fee is £10 (approximately $12.50), valid for two years and for stays of up to six months, payable by credit card.
During the application process, travelers will be required to upload passport photos and personal images. Applicants can expect a decision within about three days, delivered via email. Each eligible individual, including infants and children, must have their own ETA.
Even if you are only transiting through a U.K. airport for a connecting flight to another country, an ETA is still necessary.
