New UK entry rules: electronic ETA to be mandatory for visa-free countries

The UK continues to expand its e-permit system and has formally approved a timetable for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system for visa exempt travelers. As early as 2025, obtaining an ETA permit will become mandatory for 83 additional countries as part of a program to increase security and control of foreign nationals at the UK's borders.

The ETA system has already been in place successfully since 2023 for countries such as Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

The plan to introduce an electronic authorization system for new countries is a phased one.

From November 27, 2024, applications for ETA permits, which will become mandatory from January 8, 2025, for foreign nationals from 49 countries, will open:

For European citizens, the start of registration is announced for March 5, 2025, and the mandatory availability of an electronic ETA permit for entry is from April 2, 2025.

It is important to note that the ETA e-permit only needs to be issued to foreign nationals from visa-free countries who are planning short-term travel to the UK for up to six months for tourism, visiting friends or relatives, business, and transit stops This permit does not replace a visa or residence permit, including for long-term study programs or other activities

You can apply for an ETA permit online by uploading your photo and personal information The entry permit is issued for a period of up to 2 years with the possibility of multiple entries It should be noted that if your passport expires earlier, you will need to obtain a new ETA-permit for a new travel document

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