This guide will help travelers understand the ETA and ETIAS programs and how to navigate the application process. The ETA will go into effect on January 8th, 2025, while the ETIAS is tentatively scheduled to go into effect in the spring of 2025.
Passports and tourist visas are still an entry requirement and will not be replaced by the ETA or ETIAS. Visit my Passports & Tourists Visas post for more information on those documents.
Warning: When applying for the ETA, make sure you do so via the official UK application website or app. There are reports of websites claiming to be “official,” but these are scams. The ETA can only be obtained via the UK government-affiliated site. I provide the official application links in this post. The ETIAS program is currently not accepting applications, but I will update this post with the link once it is available.
What are ETA and ETIAS?
ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) and ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) are two new entry requirements modeled after the United State’s ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) program. The ETA and ETIAS are being implemented to enhance security screening processes for travelers who generally are not required to hold a tourist visa to enter the country.
Travelers are required to submit an application and payment before their trip. Once a traveler’s application is approved, entry authorization will be linked to your passport.
Facts about ETA
- Required from all those who are traveling to and through the United Kingdom (England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland)
- Cost is £10 per person, including children
- Valid for two years; if your passport expires before the two-year mark, you need to reapply
It is very important to note that the ETA is required if you have a connecting flight via any airport within the United Kingdom. For example, I need to apply for the ETA for my upcoming trip to Germany and Austria as my return flight connects in Heathrow Airport.
ETA Website – Provides additional information on the program and its requirements, plus the links to the Apple App Store And Android Google Play to download the official app
UK ETA App Guide – Lists instructions on how to apply via the app and technical requirements
Official Online Application – Lists instructions on how to apply online, followed by the application form
The estimated time to receive approval is 3 days, but there have been some technical issues since this is a new program. It is recommended you apply at least a month prior to your travel date.
Facts about ETIAS
- Required from all those who are traveling to any of the listed 30 European countries
- Cost is 7€ per person, fee waived for those under 18 or over 70 years of age
- Valid for three years; if your passport expires before the three-year mark, you need to reapply
The ETIAS will not be required for flight layovers as long as the traveler stays within the airport’s security area.
This is the official ETIAS website where you can learn more about the program. The launch of the ETIAS program has been postponed several times and it is now tentatively scheduled for spring 2025. Once an official date is provided, I will update this post and make an announcement on this site’s associated Facebook page.
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