The United Kingdom will require most international visitors to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before traveling to the country starting April 2, 2025. The ETA, which will be digitally linked to a traveler’s passport, aims to enhance border security and streamline the immigration process.
The UK Home Office describes the initiative as part of a broader effort to establish a more efficient, digital immigration system, ensuring a faster and more secure experience for the millions of people entering the UK each year.
The ETA application costs £10 and can be paid using Visa, Mastercard, American Express, JCB, Apple Pay, or Google Pay. While many visitors do not require a visa to enter the UK, from April 2025, all foreign travelers—except Irish citizens—must obtain an ETA before arrival.
Currently, non-European travelers already require this authorization, but with a significant portion of UK visitors coming from EU countries, the global expansion of the ETA system is expected to have a major impact. Government officials emphasize that this measure will help prevent immigration system abuse and improve overall border security.
One notable adjustment to the policy comes after concerns from London Heathrow Airport. Initially, even passengers in airside transit—those merely connecting through UK airports without entering the country—were required to obtain an ETA. However, this requirement has now been scrapped.
The UK joins a growing list of nations enforcing stricter pre-travel authorization requirements for international visitors, aligning with global trends in enhanced border control and security screening. Travelers planning to visit the UK after April 2025 are advised to apply for an ETA well in advance to avoid disruptions.
