Understanding the UK's New Travel System

Evanne Evans, 17 Apr 2025

In April 2025, the United Kingdom’s Visa and Immigration department implemented a new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, mandating that travellers obtain digital permission before entering the UK for short stays. This significant policy shift aims to enhance border security, streamline entry procedures, and align the UK's immigration controls with global standards.

What is the Purpose Behind the ETA Implementation?

Enhancing the UK’s border security is one of the ETA's primary objectives. By requiring travellers (except for those countries with privileged exemption rights) to apply for authorisation before arrival, the UK government can pre-screen individuals and better identify potential security threats or immigration risks in advance. Why was the ETA launched?

According to the fact sheet published by the Home Office in April 2025, an ETA was launched to make “improvements to deliver a more streamlined, digital immigration system which will be quicker and more secure for the millions of people who pass through the UK border each year.”

The ETA system is designed to simplify the entry process for both travellers and border officials. By digitising the authorisation process, the UK aims to reduce wait times at border control, minimise paperwork, and provide a more seamless experience for visitors.

For regular travellers navigating their way through many of the major London Airports, this is a welcome relief from the familiar disruptive and exhausting immigration queues.

Aligning with International Practices

The UK's adoption of the ETA system aligns it with similar programs implemented by other countries, including the United States' ESTA and Canada's eTA systems, aligning the UK with international travel protocols.

While the ETA system aims to streamline entry, it introduces another step in travel planning. Travellers must ensure they apply for and receive their ETA before departure, as airlines and carriers will check for valid authorisation before boarding. Failure to obtain an ETA in advance may result in denied boarding or entry into the UK.

Application Process and Fees

The ETA application involves completing an online form, providing personal and travel information, and paying a fee. As of April 2025, the cost is set at £16 per applicant. Once approved, the ETA is valid for two years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. Travellers can visit the UK during this validity period without reapplying.

Who Needs an ETA?

Travellers from visa-exempt countries planning to visit the UK for up to six months for tourism, business, or short-term study must obtain an ETA before their trip. This requirement applies to nationals from over 80 countries, including EU member states, the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Applications can be submitted online, and the ETA is electronically linked to the applicant's passport.

Who is exempt?

British and Irish Citizens:

• Individuals with British or Irish passports do not need an ETA.
• Residents of Ireland travelling from within the Common Travel Area:
• Legal residents of Ireland who are traveling to the UK from Ireland, Guernsey, Jersey, or the Isle of Man do not require an ETA.
• Holders of UK Visas or Residency Permits:
• Individuals with a UK visa, residence permit, pre-settled status, or settled status are exempt from the ETA requirement.

Exempt Countries and Individuals

Certain travellers are exempt from the ETA requirement:

• Irish Citizens: The Common Travel Area agreement allows Irish nationals to travel freely between Ireland and the UK without an ETA.

• UK Residents: Individuals with settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, or those holding valid UK visas, are not required to obtain an ETA.

• Transit Passengers: Travellers transiting through UK airports without passing through border control (airside transit) do not need an ETA.

Notable Exclusions

While the ETA system covers many visa-exempt countries, some nations have been excluded from the program. For instance, Jordanian nationals were initially included but later removed from the ETA eligibility list in September 2024. As a result, Jordanian citizens must now apply for a standard UK visa before travelling. Such exclusions are typically based on security assessments and diplomatic considerations.

Visit the official government site for a full list of exemptions and who can apply for a UK ETA.

Check out official tips on navigating the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation before embarking on your next trip to London or other British destinations.