Understanding the UK’s New ETA Travel Requirement: What You Need to Know for 2025
New Travel Rules: What You Need to Know About the UK’s ETA Requirement
If you're planning a trip to the United Kingdom in 2025 or beyond, there’s an important new rule that could impact your travel plans. The UK has introduced a new travel requirement known as the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), which is now required for many visitors from visa-exempt countries. This digital pre-clearance is mandatory even for short trips, such as tourism, business, short-term study, or visiting family.
While the ETA system was initially introduced in early 2024, the rollout was phased. As of January 8, 2025, U.S. citizens and several other non-European nationals have been required to hold an approved ETA before entering the UK. On March 5, 2025, the requirement expanded to include most EU nationals (except Irish citizens), as well as travelers from Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino, and Vatican City, for travel on or after April 2, 2025. Irish citizens and legal residents of Ireland remain exempt from this requirement (gov.uk).
How the ETA Application Process Works
The ETA application process is fully digital and designed to be user-friendly. Travelers can apply via the official UK ETA app or through the UK government website. Required materials include a valid biometric passport, a recent digital photo, and a credit or debit card for payment. As of April 9, 2025, the application fee is £16. The ETA is typically valid for two years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first, and allows for multiple entries into the UK.
Applicants are generally advised to apply at least a few days ahead of travel. Most receive a decision within three business days, but many applications are approved even more quickly—especially when using the mobile app. It is important to note that each traveler, including infants and children, must have their own approved ETA. The ETA is required for entry through UK border control, even for transit purposes, though airside transit passengers (who do not pass through border control) are currently exempt. This exemption is under review, so travelers should check for updates prior to departure.
Planning Ahead to Avoid Disruptions
Once approved, the ETA is electronically linked to your passport and will be checked at the airport prior to boarding. Travelers without a valid ETA may be denied boarding or entry upon arrival. Even those connecting through the UK for just a few hours should review their flight plans closely to determine whether an ETA is required. These changes are especially relevant for frequent travelers and professionals who may be used to the flexibility of spontaneous or short-notice travel.
It is also important to verify eligibility. While most visa-exempt travelers will need an ETA, some nationalities previously eligible for an ETA may now require a full visa instead. For example, nationals of Trinidad and Tobago and Colombia no longer qualify for an ETA and must apply for a visa. British National (Overseas) passport holders, however, do not require an ETA or visa to visit the UK. The full list of eligible nationalities and requirements can be found on the UK government website, and travelers should always consult the most current guidance based on their nationality and travel dates.
Implications for Cross-Border Families
For cross-border families, the ETA requirement introduces additional planning needs. Families who split time between the UK and another country, co-parent across borders, or travel frequently for family visits must now ensure each member has an up-to-date ETA. This includes children, who must apply individually. The added administrative step may reduce the flexibility of spontaneous travel, particularly during holidays or in emergency situations. Families will benefit from building this requirement into their routine travel planning and ensuring renewals are scheduled ahead of expiration dates.
Stay Informed and Prepared
The implementation of the UK ETA system represents a major change in how visa-exempt travelers enter the country. As with any policy shift, the key to minimizing disruption is staying informed and planning ahead. At Fyvie Financial, we emphasize the importance of being proactive—not just in financial matters, but in all areas that affect our globally mobile clients. We recommend reviewing the official UK ETA guidance regularly and factoring immigration requirements into your broader financial and travel planning strategy.
If you have questions about how international travel requirements may affect your lifestyle, residency plans, or financial obligations, we are here to help.
