Travellers from the European Union now face new entry requirements when visiting the United Kingdom. As of this week, all EU citizens who do not hold a UK visa or residence status must apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before arrival. A passport alone is no longer enough to enter the country.
The ETA application process is entirely online and costs £10 (approximately €12). However, the fee will increase to £16 (€19) starting in April. This new system is part of the UK government’s broader efforts to strengthen border security and improve visitor screening. The requirement applies to all visa-free travellers, including those from the EU, the European Economic Area (EEA), and Switzerland.
ETA Process and Validity
The UK Home Office states that most ETAs are approved within minutes, but they advise travellers to apply at least three days before departure to avoid delays. Once granted, the ETA remains valid for two years and allows multiple visits, with each stay lasting up to six months. This means that frequent visitors will not need to apply before every trip, making the system more convenient for those who travel often.
Exemptions to the New Rule
Not all EU travellers need to apply for an ETA. Individuals with a UK visa, residence permit, or post-Brexit status—such as “Settled” or “Pre-Settled” status under the EU Settlement Scheme—are exempt from the requirement. Additionally, Irish citizens, who have special travel rights under the Common Travel Area agreement between the UK and Ireland, do not need an ETA.
Comparisons to Other Travel Systems
Austria’s Foreign Ministry has compared the UK’s ETA system to the United States’ Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), which has been in place for years. The ESTA allows visa-free travellers to enter the U.S. after completing a similar online application process.
Meanwhile, the European Union is also preparing to implement a comparable system known as the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS). Set to launch in 2025, ETIAS will require travellers from non-EU countries who do not need a visa to apply for electronic travel approval before entering the Schengen Area. This move is part of the EU’s effort to modernize its border control system and enhance security.
Why the UK Introduced the ETA
The UK government has introduced the ETA as part of a broader post-Brexit immigration strategy. Officials argue that the new requirement will allow the country to track visitors more effectively and reduce illegal immigration risks. By screening travellers before they arrive, UK authorities can assess security threats and prevent potential issues at the border.
“The ETA is a key part of our border transformation,” said a UK Home Office spokesperson. “This system will provide better control over who enters the UK while making the process smoother for legitimate travellers.”
Critics, however, argue that the new system may discourage European tourists from visiting the UK, especially as they now face additional fees and administrative steps. Before Brexit, EU citizens could enter the UK freely using just their passports or national ID cards. Some tourism industry representatives fear the new rules will reduce the number of visitors from the EU, which could impact businesses that rely on international tourism.
Impact on EU Travellers
For many European travellers, the introduction of the ETA represents a significant change in the way they visit the UK. Business travellers, students, and tourists who frequently visit the country will need to adjust to the new requirements. The additional cost, though relatively small, could also add up for families or frequent visitors.
Some travellers have also raised concerns about potential application delays. While the UK government assures that most ETAs are approved quickly, there is always a risk of processing issues, especially during peak travel seasons. Visitors who fail to obtain an ETA before departure could be denied boarding or turned away at the UK border.
The Future of UK-EU Travel
The introduction of the ETA is just one of several changes affecting UK-EU travel since Brexit. EU citizens can no longer use national ID cards to enter the UK and must instead present a valid passport. Additionally, the UK has tightened its rules on work and study visas, making it harder for EU citizens to move to the country for long-term stays.
As the UK enforces stricter entry controls, European countries are also preparing to introduce their own travel authorisation systems. When ETIAS becomes operational in 2025, UK citizens will need to apply for permission before travelling to EU countries. This will create a reciprocal system in which both UK and EU travellers must complete pre-travel authorisation before crossing borders.
What Travellers Should Do
For now, EU travellers planning a trip to the UK should ensure they understand the new rules and apply for an ETA well in advance. The UK government recommends applying at least three days before departure, though travellers may want to apply earlier to avoid any last-minute issues.
The UK Home Office has launched an official website where travellers can complete their ETA applications. The process requires personal details, passport information, and answers to security-related questions. Once approved, travellers will receive confirmation electronically, which they should keep for reference.
