Jan
Updated: 22/01/2025
There are new rules for travelling to the UK (including transit via the UK) from outside of Europe.
As of 8th January 2025, eligible non-Europeans require an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) to travel to or via the UK. From 5 March 2025, eligible Europeans can apply for an ETA and will need an ETA to travel from 2 April 2025.
What is an ETA?
It’s a quick, online application for pre-approval to travel to the UK. Similar to the ESTA for the US or ETA for Canada
Who does it apply to?
Eligible worldwide travellers who do not otherwise require a visa, including those from the US, Canada, Australia.
Does it apply to Transit?
Yes. Even if transiting via London Heathrow (LHR) or any UK airport, an ETA is required. This is under review for airside passengers who do not enter the UK but is still a requirement as of today.
How much does an ETA travel permit cost?
How to apply? Apply on the UK ETA app or at the gov.uk website. The cost for an ETA is currently £10 and permits multiple journeys to the UK for stays of up to six months at a time over two years or until the holder’s passport expires – whichever is sooner.
An increased cost of £16 is being proposed but will be debated in the UK Parliament and will need to be approved before going ahead.
Who does not need an ETA?
You do not need an ETA if any of these apply to you:
- you have a visa
- you have permission to live, work or study in the UK (including settled or pre-settled status or right of abode)
- you are a British or Irish citizen
- you are travelling with a British overseas territories citizen passport
- you live in Ireland and you are travelling from Ireland, Guernsey, Jersey or the Isle of Man
To strengthen the security of the UK border, the Electronic Travel Authorisation, a digital permit enabling travel to the UK, was launched in October 2023. The scheme, which mirrors the EU’s ETIAS permit, will expand to encompass more countries by the end of 2024.
Here is everything you need to know…
What is the ETA travel permit?
The ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) is a digital permission for non-visa nationals to travel to the UK, which will be electronically linked to their passport. The ETA aims to enhance border security while facilitating travel.
The Home Office addressed the matter, stating: “Those applying for an ETA will provide their biographic, biometric and contact details, and answer a short set of suitability questions. This will increase our knowledge about those seeking to come to the UK and prevent the arrival of those who present a threat.”
This ETA supersedes the Electronic Visa Waivers (EVW) for specific Gulf Cooperation Council states, providing a more cost-effective and versatile solution, valid for a two-year period. By the end of 2024, it became a global requirement for short-stay visitors, extending its reach to Europe.
Who is eligible for the ETA scheme?
Overseas nationals intending to stay in the UK for up to six months, including tourists, family visitors, business travellers, and students, will require an ETA. Furthermore, an ETA is necessary for visits to the UK lasting up to three months under the Creative Worker visa concession and for transit through the UK, even if bypassing UK border control.
For those travelling from Qatar, applications opened on 25th October 2023, applicable for travel on or after 15th November 2023. Nationals from Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates can apply from 1st February 2024, for travel on or after 22nd February 2024.
Who does not need an ETA permit to come to the UK?
British and Irish nationals, including those within the Common Travel Area, won’t require an ETA. Legal residents in Ireland, under specific conditions, can travel without an ETA, provided they hold acceptable residency proof.
How do you apply for an ETA travel permit?
You can apply through the UK ETA app or GOV.UK which involves fee payment, providing details, submitting a compliant photo, and answering queries. Most receive a response within three working days, streamlining your journey into the UK.
House of Fisher Welcomes ETA Travel Permit Holders
If you’re planning a trip to the UK using your brand-new ETA travel permit, House of Fisher extends a warm welcome. We offer stylish and spacious accommodation in the South of England. As the leading owner and operator of Serviced Apartments and Aparthotels within the Thames Valley, our central locations are suitable for both short and long-term stays.
Our portfolio of serviced apartments and aparthotels offers secure, ‘home from home’ accommodation. Most of our properties provide car parking and family-sized apartments fully equipped with spacious wardrobes, ensuring comfort for flexible terms—from two nights to 6 months or even longer.
With our 24/7 Guest Services support, our team is always available to assist you, whether in person or over the phone, video, chat, or email, ensuring all your needs, from housekeeping to maintenance, are met promptly.
If you’re seeking accommodation in Reading, Newbury, Bracknell, Basingstoke, Farnborough, or Camberley, reach out to our friendly reservations team at 01189 514151. Booking directly with House of Fisher offers substantial benefits, and rest assured, our #HOFfamily team will ensure your stay prioritises wellness and provides the best possible experience.