New Travel Requirements: What You Need to Know Before Visiting the UK

By Ivan PetrenkoOct 7, 2024 13:35 PMNews
Share:
Aerial view of London with Big Ben and the Thames River at sunset
London's iconic landmarks, soon requiring new travel authorizations. Source: pixabay

Travelers planning to visit the United Kingdom in the near future should be aware of new entry rules. Starting in early 2025, an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) will be introduced, affecting citizens from the USA, Australia, Canada, and European countries. This measure is aimed at strengthening entry controls and will require travelers to obtain authorization before making short trips to the UK.

What is ETA, and Who Needs It?

While often referred to as a visa, the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is not technically a visa but rather a permit similar to the ESTA system used in the US. Citizens from the USA, Australia, Canada, and European countries, who previously could visit the UK visa-free for short periods, will now be required to apply for ETA. This rule takes effect on January 8, 2025, for all countries except European nations, which will have until April 2, 2025, to comply.

It's important to note that ETA will not only be necessary for visiting the country but also for transit through UK airports. This will impact travelers flying to other countries with layovers in the UK.

How to Obtain ETA?

Travelers will be able to apply for ETA through an online service that will be available starting in November 2024. Additionally, a mobile application, UK ETA, will be launched for the same purpose. Applicants will need to provide a photo, passport details, and answers to several questions. It’s crucial to submit the application through official channels—the UK government website or the mobile app. Be cautious of third-party services offering assistance with ETA applications for a fee, as these may be scams.

Application Timeline and Cost

It is recommended that travelers submit their ETA application at least three days before their trip. However, processing times may be longer in the first months after the system is implemented. The ETA application will cost £10, and the authorization will be valid for two years, meaning travelers will not need to reapply for each subsequent trip during this period.

Impact on Travelers and Preparing for Changes

While the introduction of ETA adds an extra step to travel preparation, it should not be a major inconvenience for most tourists. The system is expected to operate similarly to other international travel authorization systems, and the application process should be straightforward. However, it is important to plan trips well in advance to avoid delays in obtaining the required authorization.

For those planning to visit London or other UK cities, this new measure serves as a reminder to stay updated on entry requirements, especially as countries continue to adapt their security policies globally.

Top Articles
Not Just a Suitcase: My Personal Checklist for Smart Travelers in 2025

Not Just a Suitcase: My Personal Checklist for Smart Travelers in 2025

Mar 3, 2025 18:00 PM
Practical Eco-Friendly Travel Solutions for Sustainable Tourism

Practical Eco-Friendly Travel Solutions for Sustainable Tourism

Feb 14, 2025 15:00 PM

Top Tips for Securing Your Luggage and Preventing Loss

Feb 7, 2025 14:00 PM

Your Guide to Hand Luggage and Baggage Rules

Feb 4, 2025 20:00 PM
More News
Person speaking into a megaphone during a public demonstration

Strike at Helsinki Airport to Disrupt Finnair Flights, Thousands to Face Travel Changes

Jun 30, 2025 20:38 PM
Modern hotel room with bed, sofa, and large windows

Berlin Becomes the Newest Dot on Dalata’s European Journey

Jun 30, 2025 18:23 PM

Transavia Replaces Boeing with New Jet on Mallorca Route

Jun 29, 2025 22:49 PM

European Food Halls Become Essential Travel Destinations

Jun 29, 2025 20:36 PM
Close-up of a Scandinavian Airlines aircraft parked on the tarmac at sunset

Direct Flights Between Copenhagen and Nuuk Resume After Two Decades, Opening New Arctic Travel Opportunities

Jun 28, 2025 21:22 PM
Electric Lumo train moving on railway tracks in the UK

New Slow Travel Trend Offers Different Way to Discover the UK

Jun 28, 2025 19:48 PM
LOT Polish Airlines aircraft preparing to land

LOT Adds Direct Flights Connecting Gdańsk to Istanbul’s Historic Core

Jun 28, 2025 17:35 PM
Multiple trains approach a busy London rail junction under a canopy of signals

Travel Disruption Expected on London Rail Lines 3 July

Jun 28, 2025 15:21 PM
Air Corsica aircraft wing above the clouds during flight

New Direct Flights Between Nice and Florence Open Up Easier Travel Across the Mediterranean

Jun 28, 2025 13:47 PM

Steady Travel Through Wales: T4 Changes Operator in September

Jun 28, 2025 00:34 AM

Montreal, Toronto, Niagara Falls Set for Centrally Located Hotel Openings

Jun 27, 2025 21:28 PM
Air Canada aircraft in flight approaching landing

New Direct Montréal–Edinburgh Flight Opens Summer City-to-City Travel

Jun 27, 2025 19:45 PM
Workers in safety gear repairing railway tracks with heavy equipment

Temporary Closure of Picerno Station Alters Train Routes in Southern Italy

Jun 27, 2025 17:32 PM
Ryanair Boeing 737 aircraft in flight against clear blue sky

Ryanair Unveils New Direct Winter Routes from Gothenburg, Boosting Travel Choices to Southern Europe

Jun 27, 2025 15:29 PM
Cozy hotel room with warm lighting and decorative wall art

New Hotels in Jeddah to Boost Travel Convenience Near King Abdullah Sports City

Jun 27, 2025 13:46 PM

Adelaide Gains Direct Flights to Bali, Unlocking Wider Asian Travel Options

Jun 27, 2025 05:33 AM

Travel to South Wales in July disrupted by rail changes

Jun 26, 2025 22:24 PM
Jet2holidays aircraft taxiing on runway

New Direct Flights to La Palma Expand UK–Canaries Access

Jun 26, 2025 20:41 PM
Train platforms and GWR trains at London Paddington station

Mobile Signal Returns to Key Train Routes

Jun 26, 2025 18:37 PM
Empty departure board at Helsinki Airport terminal during operational disruption

Finnair Warns of Major Travel Disruptions During July Airport Strikes

Jun 26, 2025 13:25 PM
Flydubai aircraft taxiing on runway at airport

flydubai Reopens Key Damascus Route, Expanding Travel Options in the Middle East

Jun 26, 2025 02:42 AM
Hotel room with a large bed, two lamps, and window curtains

New Hotel Opens in Tromsø Near Harbour as Travel Grows

Jun 26, 2025 00:38 AM

SAS Reopens Copenhagen–Mumbai Route After 17-Year Gap

Jun 25, 2025 22:21 PM

Canopy by Hilton Opens in Revitalized Longkloof District of Cape Town

Jun 25, 2025 20:47 PM
Emirates Airbus A380 flying against a cloudy sky

Etihad Begins Airbus A380 Flights to Toronto Increasing Capacity for Travelers

Jun 25, 2025 18:36 PM
Minimalist hotel room with natural light and modern decor

Hotel Opposite Haymarket: A New Stopover Spot in Festival Edinburgh

Jun 25, 2025 16:52 PM