Electronic Travel Authorisation extended to European visitors
Border control

Eligible Europeans are now able to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation and will need one to travel to the UK from Wednesday 2 April 2025.

The extension follows the rollout of ETAs to all eligible non-European nationals last year, which includes visitors from the USA, Canada and Australia who now need an ETA to travel.

Almost 1.1 million visitors have already been issued with ETAs, which facilitate smoother and easier travel to the UK.

Visitors can apply for an ETA through the app or on GOV.UK.

Applicants will need to provide their biographic and biometric details and answer questions on suitability and criminality.

ETA are linked to visitors' passports.

An ETA costs £10 and applicants should allow three working days. An ETA allows multiple visits to the UK of up to 6 months over a 2-year period. It is not a visa, it is a digital permission to travel.

Minister for migration and citizenship, Seema Malhotra, said: "Securing our borders is a foundation of the UK government’s Plan for Change and by digitising the immigration system we are paving the way for a contactless UK border, ensuring visitors enjoy a seamless travel experience in the future.

"Expanding ETA worldwide cements our commitment to enhance security through technology and innovation."