EU Nationals Can Apply for UK Electronic Travel Authorisation Starting March 5, 2025

Nationals of all European Union countries, including associated territories, will be able to apply for the UK's Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) starting March 5, 2025. While EU passport holders can begin their applications on this date, the ETA will not be required for travel to the UK until April 2, 2025. Until that time, individuals will have a month to obtain the necessary document.

"Eligible Europeans can apply from March 5, 2025, and will need an ETA to travel from April 2, 2025," stated the UK Home Office.

The ETA is a digital travel permission that will apply to all foreign nationals eligible for visa-free entry to the UK. Its primary purpose is to strengthen border controls and assist authorities in preventing the abuse of the UK’s immigration system. Under this authorization, EU citizens will be permitted to stay in the UK for up to six months for various purposes, including tourism, visiting family and friends, business, and short-term study. The document will also be required for EU nationals transiting through UK airports and for those entering the UK for permitted paid engagements, as well as for stays of up to three months under the Creative Worker visa concession.

The requirement for an ETA is already in place for other foreign nationals exempt from visa requirements when entering the UK, including those residing in the EU. The UK Home Office emphasizes that everyone travelling to the UK under the visa-free regime must obtain an ETA, including infants and children.

Applications for the UK’s ETA can be submitted online via the government website or through the UK ETA mobile app. The authorities have clarified that applications can be made on behalf of others as well. "Everyone travelling needs to get an ETA, including babies and children. You can apply for other people. You cannot get a refund after you apply," the UK Home Office noted.

The ETA will remain valid for two years, allowing multiple entries during that period. The application fee is currently set at €11 (£10), but there is potential for an increase of 60 per cent, as proposed by the UK Home Office. If this price increase goes into effect, EU nationals will need to pay €18 (£16) instead of the current fee.

By fLEXI tEAM