EU citizens don’t need a UK ETA if...

EU travelers planning a visit to Jersey, Guernsey, or the Isle of Man are in for some good news—until October 2025, they can travel directly from the EU to these Crown Dependencies without needing a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). Whether you're traveling for business, leisure, or to explore the stunning landscapes of these islands, as long as you’re flying directly from the EU, a passport or national ID card will suffice. Plus, it's not the only exemption.

However, a key update is on the horizon. Starting from 2 April 2025, a new rule will come into effect that affects EU citizens traveling to the UK.

Learn all the Jersey entry requirements for EU citizens here.

When you don't need a UK ETA

You will need to obtain a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to enter the United Kingdom starting from April 2, 2025. However, there are certain exemptions:

• You have a valid UK visa.

• You have permission to live, work, or study in the UK (including settled or pre-settled status, or right of abode).

• You are transiting through a UK airport and will not pass through border control (check with your airline if unsure).

• You are a British or Irish citizen.

• You are traveling with a British overseas territories citizen passport.

• You live in Ireland and are traveling from Ireland, Guernsey, Jersey, or the Isle of Man.

• You are a child traveling on the France-UK school trip travel information form.

• You are exempt from immigration control.

• You are an EU citizen traveling from Ireland, Guernsey, Jersey, or the Isle of Man from the EU until October.

For those seeking extended stays or specific permissions, other visa options include the UK Visit Visa for longer tourist or business visits, the UK E-Visa for digital processing, the UK Settlement Visa for residency, the UK Sponsorship License for employers hiring foreign workers, and the UK Student Visa for education. Additionally, individuals may apply for a Self-Sponsorship Skilled Worker Visa to work independently or a Spouse Visa to join a UK-based partner.

What is UK ETA?

The UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) is a digital travel permit for visa-exempt travelers to the United Kingdom. Starting in 2025, travelers from countries like the EU will need to apply for this digital authorization before traveling to the UK.

It is similar to the U.S. ESTA and is part of the UK's efforts to strengthen border security. The UK ETA is linked to your passport and allows you to visit the UK for short stays, such as tourism, business, or transit.

Do I need ETA for UK? Check with our tool.