Visas

NOTE: ETIAS is currently not in operation and no applications are collected at this point.

ETIAS is the European Travel Information and Authorisation System.

From 2024, over 60 visa-exempt countries across Europe will be required to have a travel authorisation in order to enter Europe. This document is linked to a traveller’s passport and is valid for up to three years, or until the new passport expires, whichever comes first. If you get a new passport, you will need to get a new ETIAS travel authorisation.

What is ETIAS?

With an ETIAS travel authorisation, you can enter the territory of selected European countries as often as you want for short-term stays (normally up to 90 days in any 180-day period). This does not guarantee entry to the countries listed, and usual border security checks will apply.

You can find the countries listed which will require ETIAS authorisation here

Who needs to apply for an ETIAS?

As a general rule, you will need an ETIAS travel authorisation if you meet all the following criteria:

• You are not an EU national;
• You are a citizen of a country whose nationals are not required to have a visa for short-term stay in the European countries requiring ETIAS;
• You do not have a residence permit/card/document issued by any of the European countries requiring ETIAS

You can find out more about who should apply for an ETIAS here.

How to apply for an ETIAS?

Applications are processed within minutes, though some can take up to 14 days. The application costs EUR7, though some travellers may be exempt from this fee. You can complete the application either on the official website or the mobile application.

You can find out more about how to apply for an ETIAS here.

NOTE: ETA is currently not in operation and no applications are collected at this point.

The government has confirmed that from the beginning of 2025, anyone without British or Irish citizenship will now need to apply for an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) visa. You can find specific dates on when you need to apply below.

The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is another document which may be required in order for you to travel. This will give permission for people to travel to the UK and will be electronically linked to your passport. You can find out more about the ETA and applications here.

This is not a requirement for British passport holders. Travel for British passport holders will continue as normal.

You will need an ETA to:

• Come to the UK for up to 6 months for tourism, visiting family and friends, business or study.
• Come to the UK for up to 3 months on the Creative Worker visa concession
  transit through the UK – including if you’re not going through UK border control

Who needs to apply for ETA?

• Non-European citizens will need an ETA from 8 January 2025, with applications opening on 27 November 2024.
• Eligible Europeans will need an ETA from 2 April 2025, following applications opening on 5 March 2025.

You will not need an ETA if you have either:

• A British or Irish passport
• Permission to live, work or study in the UK
• A visa to enter the UK

If you live in Ireland and you’re not an Irish citizen, you will not need an ETA if all of the following apply:

• You’re legally resident in Ireland
• You do not need a visa to enter the UK
• You’re entering the UK from Ireland, Guernsey, Jersey or the Isle of Man

How much will an ETA cost?

The ETA costs £10 per applicant and will be valid for up to two years, or until the visitors’ passport expires, whichever occurs soonest.

How do I access my ETA visa?

The visa will be digitally linked to your passport.

How long is an ETA valid for?

An ETA allows for multiple trips to the UK and is valid for stays up to six months.

How to apply for an ETA?

You can apply on the UK ETA app or online on GOV.UK. You can also apply on behalf of others as each traveller must get their own ETA, including children and babies.

Applications are usually completed within 3 working days, but this may take longer in some cases.

You can find out more about ETA and applications here

Those traveling with children may be asked at the border to prove the relationship with the child if they do not seem to be the parent, for example having different surnames. This can be proven with a birth or adoption certificate; divorce or marriage certificate; or a letter from the child’s parent giving permission and providing contact details.