Key Points
- Effective Dates:
- January 8, 2025: Non-European travelers must obtain an ETA
- April 2, 2025: Eligible European nationals will also require an ETA but may apply as early as March 5, 2025
- Colombian Nationals: No longer eligible for an ETA and must apply for a visa instead
- ETA Cost: £10 per applicant (including children)
Overview
The UK government has implemented its Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) requirement for non-European travelers starting January 8, 2025. The program will expand to eligible European nationals on April 2, 2025, with applications opening on March 5, 2025. Travelers from most non-European countries will need an ETA for entry into the UK for short visits or transits, but Colombian nationals will need to obtain a visa.
Who Needs an ETA
- Non-European nationals visiting the UK for up to 6 months for:
- Tourism, business, family visits, or short-term study
- Permitted paid engagements or events (e.g., under the Creative Worker visa concession)
- Transit through the UK (even without passing through border control)
Who Does Not Need an ETA
- Individuals with a valid UK visa or permission to live, work, or study (e.g., settled/pre-settled status)
- British and Irish citizens
- Travelers holding a British Overseas Territories passport or those living in Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey, or the Isle of Man traveling from within those territories
Dual citizens with British or Irish citizenship must use their British or Irish passport to travel.
Application Process and Fees
- Cost: £10 per application
- Required Documents:
- Valid passport (physical document, not digital or photocopies)
- Photo of the applicant’s face (uploaded via the UK ETA app (Apple App Store | Google Play Store)
- Payment method: Debit/credit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay
- Processing Time: Most ETAs are approved within a few days
The ETA application can be completed using the UK ETA app for faster processing.
Restrictions with an ETA
- Cannot stay in the UK for longer than 6 months
- Cannot work for a UK company or be self-employed unless for an approved short-term engagement
- Cannot claim public funds (benefits)
- Cannot marry or register a civil partnership—this requires a Marriage Visitor visa
Looking Ahead
Employers, travelers, and international businesses should consider the additional step and cost when planning travel to the UK. The £10 ETA fee applies to each traveler, including children, making preparing for collective travel arrangements essential.
Colombian nationals must apply for a visa rather than an ETA, signaling the importance of verifying individual eligibility based on nationality. Businesses should inform employees traveling for business engagements about the new requirements to avoid disruptions.
With the expansion of ETA requirements for European nationals in April 2025, it is crucial for organizations and travelers to stay updated on eligibility changes and submission timelines to ensure compliance with the UK’s evolving immigration policies.
