If you’re planning a trip to the United Kingdom, you may need a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before entering the country. This new digital travel permit allows travellers from certain countries to stay in the UK for up to six months for tourism, business, medical visits, or short-term studies.
The UK ETA system is being rolled out in stages, and from 2 April 2025, more nationalities will be required to apply. Here’s everything you need to know about who needs an ETA, when to apply, and what to do if you’re not eligible.
What Is a UK ETA?
A UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) is a digital entry approval that travellers from eligible countries must get before entering the UK. It is valid for tourism, business, medical treatment, or short courses and allows you to stay up to six months.
Applying for an ETA is quick and easy — it’s done online, and helps avoid delays at the border.
Who Can Apply for a UK ETA Now?
If you are from one of the following eligible countries, you can apply for an ETA immediately:
Caribbean & Central America:
Antigua and Barbuda, The Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Costa Rica, Grenada, Guatemala, Nicaragua, Panama, St Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago
South America:
Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Guyana, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay
Europe & Middle East:
Bahrain, Israel, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates
Asia & Oceania:
Australia, Brunei, Hong Kong (including British Nationals Overseas), Japan, Kiribati, Malaysia, Maldives, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Nauru, New Zealand, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Seychelles, Singapore, Solomon Islands, South Korea, Taiwan (with ID), Tonga, Tuvalu, United States
Who Will Need a UK ETA from 2 April 2025?
From 2 April 2025, more nationalities — mainly from Europe — will be required to get an ETA before travelling to the UK:
New Eligible Countries (From 2 April 2025):
Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Vatican City
What If Your Country Is Not Listed?
If your nationality is not listed, you cannot apply for an ETA. Instead, you must check the UK visa requirements based on your country and reason for travel.
To find out, visit the UK Government’s official visa website, enter your nationality, and follow the steps.
The UK ETA is becoming a must-have travel document for many international travellers. While some countries can already apply, others will need to do so from 2 April 2025.
If you’re planning to visit the UK, check your eligibility early and apply for your ETA in advance to ensure a smooth journey. If you’re not eligible for an ETA, you may need to apply for a visa instead. Always plan ahead to avoid last-minute surprises.
FAQ’s
What is a UK ETA?
A UK ETA is a digital travel authorisation for visitors from certain countries, allowing them to visit the UK for up to six months for tourism, business, or short-term studies.
Who needs a UK ETA right now?
Travellers from select countries in the Caribbean, South America, Middle East, Asia, and Oceania, such as the US, Australia, and UAE, must apply before travelling.
When will more countries need a UK ETA?
From 2 April 2025, citizens from many European countries like Germany, France, and Italy will also be required to apply for a UK ETA before visiting.
What if my country is not on the ETA list?
If your nationality isn’t listed, you will need to check if you require a visa to enter the UK based on your country and travel purpose.
How do I apply for a UK ETA?
You can apply online through the UK government website by entering your personal and passport details. Approval is usually quick if you meet all requirements.
