Overview

• The UK's Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system is now mandatory for visa-exempt travelers, including EU citizens, entering the country.
• The ETA, linked to travelers' passports, allows multiple short-term visits of up to six months for tourism, business, or studies but requires a visa for longer stays or work.
• Applications are processed digitally via an app or website, requiring a passport, email, and payment; approvals are typically issued within minutes to three days.
• The current ETA fee is £10 but will increase to £16 starting April 9, with travelers encouraged to apply promptly to avoid higher costs.
• Airlines are enforcing compliance at check-in, and travelers without an ETA will be denied boarding or entry, with exceptions for the Channel Islands until autumn 2025.