With the UK ETA 2025 dates fast approaching, it’s crucial to know what’s changing if you’re planning to travel to the UK this year. Starting in 2025, travelers from certain countries will need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before they can enter. In this guide, we'll highlight the key dates you need to be aware of and explain how the new UK visa system works.

Key UK ETA 2025 dates you should know

The UK Electronic Travel Authorisation will change how travelers from certain countries enter the UK. To help you stay on track, here are the key dates you need to know for the new system.

1. 8 January 2025: ETA introduced for certain countries

2. 5 March 2025: European citizens can begin applying

3. 2 April 2025: EU citizens must have an ETA to travel

We can help you to apply for United Kingdom ETA now. Here's what you need to know about the upcoming changes to UK travel in 2025:

8 January 2025

Since 8 January 2025, the UK will require Electronic Travel Authorisations (ETAs) for visitors from countries that currently do not need a visa for short stays (under six months). This includes passport holders from countries like:

• Australia

• Canada

• United States

For travelers from non-European countries (such as Australia, Canada, and the US), the ETA requirement is already in place. These travelers will need to ensure they apply for their ETA online before making their trip to the UK.

Visitors from Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, who already require an ETA, will continue to follow the same process. This change means travelers from eligible countries can now apply for the ETA before traveling to the UK.

5 March 2025

From 5 March 2025, European Union (EU) citizens will be able to start applying for the UK ETA. This marks the start of the new process for EU travelers, who have not previously needed an ETA or visa for short trips to the UK.

2 April 2025

From 2 April 2025, EU citizens (along with travelers from other eligible countries) will be required to have an approved ETA before traveling to the UK. This will be the first day that travelers from the EU and other eligible countries will need their ETA to enter the UK for short stays, such as tourism, business, or transit.

Check all the UK ETA countries & requirements for details.

Deep dive: What is United Kingdom ETA?

The UK ETA is a digital travel authorization that will allow travelers from eligible countries to visit the UK for short trips. It’s an online system that will link the ETA to your passport, allowing you to enter the UK without needing a visa.

Credit: Home Office/YouTube

This system is designed to improve security while making the travel process smoother and faster for visitors and immigration officials.

Who needs the UK ETA in 2025?

From 5 March 2025, EU citizens and nationals from other countries will need to apply for a UK ETA if they plan to visit for tourism, business, or transit. The application process is quick and simple, and you can apply online before your trip.

Who does not need the UK ETA?

• British and Irish citizens.

• People with a valid UK visa.

• People with settled or pre-settled status in the UK.

• Those traveling with a British Overseas Territories passport.

If you fall into any of these categories, you don’t need to apply for the ETA. But it’s always a good idea to check the specific rules for your situation & other UK visa types.

How long is the UK ETA valid for?

Once approved, the UK ETA will be valid for 2 years. During this time, you can travel to the UK multiple times without needing to reapply. However, if you get a new passport, you will need to apply for a new ETA linked to your updated passport.

UK ETA application in 2025

To apply for the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation you can either contact us or, fill out the online form with your personal and passport details, upload a photo of your passport and face, and pay the UK visa fee. After submission, wait for approval, and once approved, your ETA will be linked to your passport for travel to the UK.

UK ETA for US citizens

Starting January 8, 2025, US citizens who want to visit the UK for short trips, such as tourism, business, or just passing through UK airports, will need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). The ETA is required for travel to all parts of the UK, including Northern Ireland and British Overseas Territories.

The UK ETA is similar to the U.S. ESTA system. It will be valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. It can take up to three working days to process. If you already have a UK visa, British or Irish passport, or an exempt vignette, you do not need an ETA.