12/05/2024
*US Travelers Will Need Authorization to Enter the UK in 2025*
Starting on January 8, US citizens visiting the UK will need electronic travel authorization—even for layovers
Starting on January 8, 2025 US travelers—as well as visitors from Australia and Canada—will be required to apply for permission to enter the UK through a new scheme known as Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA).
After several delays, the UK ETA application portal officially opened for non-European travelers on November 27, 2024. US travelers with trips planned to the UK next year can now apply.
While most applications are approved the same day, it can take take up to 72 hours—so don't risk leaving it to the last minute.
The UK government is in the process of fully digitizing UK borders by the end of 2025. Soon, all visitors to the UK (which includes England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland) who aren't UK or Irish citizens will be required to receive advanced approval through an ETA or an eVisa.
Will I need a visa to enter the UK?
This isn't technically a visa—the ETA system will grant travelers permission to enter the country. You will need to apply for an ETA prior to arrival. If you haven't received permission to travel before arrival, you may be fined or denied boarding.
Do I need an ETA if my layover is in the UK?
An ETA is required for fliers transiting through the UK, even if you never leave the airport. According to the UK government, “requiring transit passengers to obtain an ETA stops people who may use connecting flights to avoid gaining permission to travel to the UK." However, this rule is “under review,” per a news release, and could change in the future.
How long will it take to get an ETA?
Travelers are advised to apply for an ETA at least a few days before their journey. Approval should be granted within a few hours of applying but can take up to 72 hours to process.
How long will an ETA last?
After your ETA has been approved, visitors will be granted permission to stay in the UK for up to six months, whether for business or tourism reasons.
The ETA is valid for two years or until your passport expires (whichever comes first)—meaning there's no need to apply for a new one every time you visit within the valid time period.
How much will an ETA cost?
The UK ETA will cost 10 pounds (approximately $13). The EU is launching a similar system in 2025, which will cost 7 euro (about $8). A US ESTA, meanwhile, costs $21.
What will I need to apply for an ETA?
You'll need to provide a valid passport, a recent digital headshot that follows the UK's passport photo requirements, an email address, details of your travel plans, as well as a valid debit or credit card to pay the application fees.
A version of this article originally appeared on Condé Nast Traveller UK
