Electronic Travel Authorisation

Understanding the UK’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) System – ETA will be needed from March 2025

The United Kingdom is bringing in an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system from March 2025. This system is designed to make it faster to enter the UK for travellers from Europe visiting for short-term purposes. Read on for a comprehensive breakdown of the ETA process, including its requirements, costs, and application procedures.

Who Needs an ETA?

All travellers from Europe, including babies and children, will need to apply for an ETA before entering the UK. Each traveller must have a valid ETA, which will be linked to their passport. If you receive a new passport, you will need to apply for a new ETA.

Who is Exempt from an ETA?

• British and Irish citizens do not need an ETA.
• Individuals who already hold a visa or permission to live, work, or study in the UK (including settled or pre-settled status or right of abode) are exempt.
• Passengers transiting through a UK airport without passing through border control do not require an ETA.

Special Requirements for Under 18s

Applicants under the age of 18 must also provide the contact details of a parent or legal guardian who has parental responsibility.

Please note:

• A responsible adult may apply on behalf of a child, but the child must be present for the required photo and facial scan.
• Children under the age of 9 are not required to complete a facial scan.
• A valid passport is still required, and it must match the details provided in the ETA application.
• If traveling alone or with someone other than their parent/guardian, additional verification may be required.

Processing Time and Decision Notifications

• Applications are usually processed within three working days
• Some applicants may receive approvals sooner, while others may experience delays due to additional security checks
• If additional documentation is required, applicants will be notified via email
• Applicants will receive an email confirmation once their ETA is approved
• Applications are usually processed within three working days
• In some cases, approvals may be granted sooner, while others may take longer due to additional security checks
• Applicants will receive an email confirmation once their ETA is approved

IMPORTANT: 

• Each traveller must apply individually; group applications are not permitted
• The ETA is digitally linked to the passport, so travellers do not need to carry a physical document
• If applying through the mobile app, ensure that your phone has camera access for the identity verification process
• If your passport has the biometric symbol, the app can scan it automatically
• If an application is rejected, the applicant may need to provide further information or seek an alternative visa

Taking Photographs

Photograph Guidance:  You will have to take a photo of your passport

You must take a photo of the same passport you’ll use to travel to the UK. It must be the original passport, not a photocopy or digital passport.

If you are 9 or younger, you will not be asked to scan your face.

Take a photo of yourself

You must:

• be in even lighting, against a plain, light-coloured background
• keep your head straight and look directly at the camera
• have a neutral expression and make sure your eyes are open and visible – remove your glasses if there’s any glare
• include your head and shoulders (you can extend your arms or ask someone to take the photo for you)

You must not:

• wear a head covering (unless it is for religious or medical reasons)
• have any shadows, objects or people behind you

You can retake the photo before submitting i