UK ETA Italy: Do Italians need a visa for the UK?

The UK ETA for Italy is now in effect, and if you're an Italian citizen planning to visit the UK, it's essential to be aware of the new rules. In this UK ETA guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about the UK ETA—who needs it, how to apply, and what you can (and can’t) do with it.

Do Italian citizens need a UK ETA?

As of April 2025, Italian citizens are required to apply for a UK ETA if they plan to visit the UK for tourism, business, or short-term study. It’s not quite a visa, but it’s close enough! While Italian nationals previously did not need a visa to visit the UK, this new system will apply to all travelers from visa-exempt countries, similar to the Canada eTA or US ESTA.

UK ETA for Italians: Everything you need to know

The UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) is a new requirement for Italian citizens planning to visit the United Kingdom. This digital travel permit is mandatory for Italian nationals traveling to the UK for short stays.

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.

How to apply for a UK ETA from Italy

For Italian citizens applying for a UK ETA, Global Law offers:

• Expert-driven applications to ensure accurate submissions and avoid delays or rejections.

• Specialized support for travelers with prior visa refusals or criminal records, ensuring a smooth process.

• Fast-track solutions for urgent travel needs, helping you meet tight deadlines.

• Personalized assistance for business travelers, professionals, and families, guaranteeing a hassle-free entry to the UK.

UK ETA entry at the border

Upon arrival in the UK, holders of a UK ETA from Italy can either:

• Use the ePassport Gate (if eligible) for quicker entry.

• See a Border Force Officer if you are not eligible for an ePassport gate or need additional assistance.

Keep in mind that an ETA does not guarantee entry. Border control officers may still ask questions and request additional documentation if necessary.

Eligible UK ETA countries

Do I need ETA for the UK? Check with out tool or use the list of nationalities eligible to apply for an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) when traveling to the UK. The UK ETA countries list includes countries and territories whose citizens can apply now, as well as those who will require an ETA for travel on or after April 2, 2025.

1. Andorra

2. Antigua and Barbuda

3. Argentina

4. Australia

5. Austria

6. Bahamas (The)

7. Bahrain

8. Barbados

9. Belarus

10. Belgium

11. Belize

12. Botswana

13. Brazil

14. Brunei

15. Bulgaria

16. Canada

17. Chile

18. Costa Rica

19. Croatia

20. Cyprus

21. Czechia

22. Denmark

23. Estonia

24. Finland

25. France

26. Federated States of Micronesia

27. Germany

28. Greece

29. Grenada

30. Guatemala

31. Guyana

32. Hungary

33. Iceland

34. Israel

35. Italy

36. Japan

37. Kiribati

38. Kuwait

39. Latvia

40. Liechtenstein

41. Lithuania

42. Luxembourg

43. Macao Special Administrative Region

44. Malaysia

45. Maldives

46. Malta

47. Marshall Islands

48. Mexico

49. Monaco

50. Netherlands

51. New Zealand

52. Nicaragua

53. Norway

54. Oman

55. Palau

56. Panama

57. Papua New Guinea

58. Paraguay

59. Peru

60. Poland

61. Portugal

62. Qatar

63. Romania

64. San Marino

65. Seychelles

66. Singapore

67. Slovakia

68. Slovenia

69. Solomon Islands

70. South Korea

71. Spain

72. St Kitts and Nevis

73. St Lucia

74. St Vincent and the Grenadines

75. Sweden

76. Switzerland

77. Taiwan (if you have a passport issued by Taiwan that includes in it the number of the identification card issued by the competent authority in Taiwan)

78. Tonga

79. Tuvalu

80. United Arab Emirates

81. United States

82. Uruguay

83. Vatican City

Stay ahead of the changes with Global Law guides.