IMPORTANT!
ENTRY INTO THE UK AND THE ETA
(Electronic Travel Authorisation)
The Electronic Travel Authorisation was introduced by the UK in 2024.
Initially only for travellers from the Gulf states, it is being extended to all non
European travellers from 8th January 2025, and to European travellers as from
2nd April 2025. This entry pass (it is not a visa and does not confer the right to
visit the UK, but merely the authorisation to travel) will be needed by all non
British or Irish passport holders, unless they have a valid visa or hold
immigration status.
Travellers from Europe (including Switzerland) can apply for the ETA as from
5th March and have the choice of downloading the UK ETA app from either
Google Play or the Apple App Store, or by going online at GOV.UK. There is
no option to apply by post or through the embassy.
The ETA costs £10 and is valid for multiple trips (maximum duration 6 months)
within a period of 2 years, or up to the expiry of the holder’s passport,
whichever is shorter. Although the ETA is usually granted within a few hours,
travellers should apply well in advance of their journey in case of unexpected
delays.
Full details, including links to the apps and the GOV.UK ETA page, are
available at Apply for an electronic travel authorisation (ETA) – GOV.UK
Peter Payne, Helfides SA