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UNITED KINGDOM: The latest on the UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)
September 23, 2024
By: Hannah In-Chan
Following the announcement of the UK’s Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system in November 2023, we can now provide a summary of current requirements.
Purpose of the UK ETA
An ETA is advance permission to travel to, or transit through the UK, for those who do not need a visa or have UK immigration status. An ETA approval will facilitate multiple entries.
Who needs a UK ETA?
Every individual visiting the UK who does not need a visa for stays of less than six months and does not meet one of the below exemptions is required to hold a valid ETA to enter the UK. Exemptions include:
- UK or Irish nationals
- Individuals who hold a UK entry visa or residence permit
- Individuals who hold an Irish permit and do not need a visa to enter the UK
- Non-UK nationals who need an issued visa to enter the UK
For example, a US national, who lives in the US, and is coming to attend a business meeting in London will need an ETA, once this requirement is implemented for US nationals.Note: Individuals require an ETA for airside transit as well as visiting the UK.
Cost of a UK ETA
An application fee of £10 plus service fees will be payable when submitting the ETA application online.
Validity of a UK ETA
Once approved, the ETA will be valid from the date of approval for either two years or until the expiry of the passport, whichever is shorter.
Process to get a UK ETA
Applications for the ETA can be submitted online with CIBT from November 01, 2024. Applications should take no more than 3 working days from the date of submission, but if the UK authorities have any questions, processing can take longer. We recommend applications be submitted at least 30 days before.
Documents required for UK ETA
Each applicant’s passport must be valid for a minimum of 3 months after the intended departure date from the UK and should not be older than 10 years.
UK ETA implementation timeline
Nationals from Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar Saudi Arabia and the UAE are required to obtain ETA approval before travel.
Nationals from non-EU and some additional countries will be required to obtain ETA approval for travel from January 8, 2025.
All other nationals will be required to obtain ETA approval for travel from April 2, 2025, and can submit applications from March 5, 2025.
We recommend that travelers check the official UK government website for the current list of nationalities and timings involved in the UK ETA program.
This immigration update is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for legal or scenario-specific advice. Furthermore, it is important to note that immigration announcements are subject to sudden and unexpected changes. Readers are encouraged to reach out to Newland Chase for any case- or company-specific assessments.
