If you plan on visiting the United Kingdom soon, there’s an important update that you need to be aware of. Starting January 8, 2025, American travelers will be required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before embarking on their trip to the United Kingdom. The new requirement was put into place in order to try and increase security, which means that you’ll need to plan ahead to ensure smooth entry into the U.K.
Ready to learn more? Here’s everything we think you should know about the new Electronic Travel Authorization system.
Who Needs to Apply For an ETA?
U.S. citizens who are traveling to the United Kingdom for stays of 6 months or less will need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization before their trip. This applies for those who are visiting the U.K. for business purposes or tourism purposes. Failing to obtain an ETA could mean that you will be denied entry, so it’s important that you apply for an ETA ahead of time to avoid running into any complications.
What is the Purpose of the Electronic Travel Authorization System?
In the past, American citizens did not have to apply for an ETA before entering the United Kingdom. However, this is no longer the case. Some reasons that the Electronic Travel Authorization System was put into place was to try and increase security, ensure compliance with entry requirements, and to get a better understanding of who is going in and out of the country.
When Will the Electronic Travel Authorization System Go Into Effect?
One concern for travelers planning to visit the United Kingdom was when this new system would go into effect. The Electronic Travel Authorization System went into effect on January 8, 2025. This means that if you want to go to the United Kingdom from January 8, 2025 and beyond, you’ll now need to obtain an ETA beforehand. This is a very important step, so make a plan and don’t forget to apply for your ETA.
Why Would I Need an ETA?
United States citizens who will be visiting the United Kingdom after January 8, 2025, will need to apply for an ETA. Some reasons that you may need an ETA is if you will be going to the U.K. for tourism, business, or for school, and plan on staying for up to 6 months. Please note that if you plan on staying in the United Kingdom for more than 6 months, you may need to apply for a visa instead. Do your research to confirm that you are applying for the proper travel documents.
How Long is an ETA Valid?
Once you have applied for your ETA and it is approved, it will be linked to your physical passport. This means that you will not be sent a physical document. Your ETA will be digitally linked to your passport, and is valid for 2 years. If your passport expires before the 2 years is up, you will need to reapply for the ETA, so check your passport’s expiration date ahead of time to avoid running into any problems.
How Much Does an ETA Cost?
Applying for an ETA is actually quite inexpensive, especially when compared to the cost of other travel documents. It will cost you £10 to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization. The cost of an ETA is the same for everyone, including when applying for an ETA for children and infants. It’s important to note that everyone in your group will need to get an ETA, so plan accordingly.
How Long Does it Take to Get an ETA?
After you have applied for an ETA, you may be wondering how long it will take to get your application approved. Although there isn’t an exact amount of time it will take to get your ETA approved, you can expect to hear a decision on your approval within 3 business days. Depending on the time of year it could take more or less than 3 business days, but 3 business days is typically the average amount of time it takes to hear back.
Can Everyone Apply For an ETA?
American citizens (along with citizens of 53 other countries and territories) can now apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization. However, you may have to wait until March 5, 2025 to apply for an ETA depending on where you have citizenship. Please check the GOV.UK website to see if you can apply for an ETA visa right away, or if you will need to wait until March 5, 2025 for applications to open up for your country or territory.
What Will I Need in Order to Apply For an ETA?
Before you start the application for an ETA, there are some things that you will need in order to guarantee that the process goes as smoothly as possible. You’ll want to have your passport on hand and a valid form of payment such as a credit card. Additionally, it’s important to note that you’ll need to have access to your emails, and will need to upload a picture of your passport and a photo of the face of the person applying for the ETA.
Where Can I Apply For an ETA?
A wonderful thing about applying for an ETA is that you can do so entirely online. The application process is quick and simple, and should take no more than 30 minutes for most people. Once you’re ready to begin the application process, you can visit the GOV.UK website. Here, you can learn more about the ETA visa, and start filling out your application.
Getting an ETA for your upcoming trip is actually quite simple, and before you know it, you’ll be on your way to your destination. If you plan on traveling to the United Kingdom, or to another international destination and need a passport or visa, Swift can help! You can visit our website to get the application process started, and our team will work with you to get your travel documents to you before your trip. No matter where you’re going, we’ll get you there.
