The UK’s ETA scheme The UK’s new ETA scheme (electronic travel authorisation) gives eligible non-UK nationals permission to visit and/or transit through the UK without a visa.
The UK’s ETA scheme The UK’s new ETA scheme (electronic travel authorisation) gives eligible non-UK nationals permission to visit and/or transit through the UK without a visa.
The UK’s ETA scheme Updated 24 April 2025The UK Government has a new scheme, called the ETA (electronic travel authorisation), which gives eligible non-UK nationals permission to visit and/or transit through the UK without a visa.The scheme was being introduced in phases, but is now available to nationals from a long list of visa exempt countries, including EU countries, Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the United States (visit GOV.UK for the full list). Nationals of all ages from these countries need an ETA, including children and babies.The ETA costs £16. It is electronically linked to the applicant’s passport and lasts for two years, or until the passport expires.Visitors can apply online at GOV.UK or via the UK ETA app with decisions expected to be made within three working days.Passengers transiting airside (not passing through UK border control) are temporarily exempt from applying for an ETA. This primarily affects those travelling via Heathrow or Manchester Airport as these are currently the only UK airports which offer transit facilities.Anyone returning to the UK from a holiday or trip overseas who already has a visa, has permission to live, work or study in the UK, or has a British or Irish passport will not need to apply for an ETA. For more information, click here. These videos from the Home Office also explain what an ETA is and how to apply for one.
