Immigration Alert: Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for the UK

The ETA is like the pre-travel approval process used by the US (ESTA), Canada (eTA), Australia (eTA) and New Zealand (NZeTA). The EU will also launch the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) programme in 2025, requiring visitors to apply for pre-approval before travelling.

There is no minimum age requirement for the ETA, meaning that all travellers will need one.

Most individuals will need an ETA. The only exceptions are:

• British and Irish nationals
• Individuals who hold the right to live, study or work in the UK
• Individuals who hold settled status for the UK

Carriers will check an individual’s ETA status prior to check in and boarding. Individuals without a valid ETA will not be able to travel.

Current roll out

The first phase of the new ETA programme was launched for Qatari nationals, with the ability to travel using the ETA’s from 15 November 2023.

On 22 February 2024, individuals from the following countries now require ETAs:

• Saudi Arabia
• Oman
• Bahrain
• Kuwait
• United Arab Emirates

Upcoming roll outs

Who can apply from 27 November 2024

Nationalities from the following locations (including associated territories) can apply for an ETA from 27 November 2024.

They can travel to the UK with an ETA from 8 January 2025.

Who can apply from 5 March 2025

Nationalities from the following locations (including associated territories) can apply for an ETA from 5 March 2025.

They can travel to the UK with an ETA from 2 April 2025.

What does an ETA allow you to do?

• Enter the UK for up to 6 months for tourism, visiting family and friends, business or short-term study
• Come to the UK for up to 3 months under the Creative Worker visa concession
• Come to the UK for a permitted paid engagement
• Transit through the UK – including if you’re not going through UK border control

What can’t you do on an ETA?

• Stay in the UK for longer than 6 months
• Undertake paid or unpaid work for a UK company or as a self-employed person, unless you are doing a permitted paid engagement or event or work on the Creative Worker visa concession
• Claim public funds (benefits)
• Live in the UK through frequent or successive visits
• Marry or register a civil partnership, or give notice of marriage or civil partnership

How long is an ETA valid for once issued?

An ETA will be valid for two years, or until the passport used for the application expires, whichever comes first.

How much does an ETA cost?

There is a GBP £10 application fee per applicant. Please note that payments are made in local currency at the time of application therefore actual costs may vary due to FX and transaction rates.

How long does it take to receive an ETA?

Once the application has been submitted online it should take up to three working days for a decision to be granted. On occasion applications may take longer to process so it is advisable to make the application in advance of completing any travel bookings.

What will I receive?

The ETA is a digital authorisation so applicants will receive an email confirming the ETA has been granted and linked to the passport used at application. There is no physical visa. It is recommended that travellers print the approval document and carry this with them in case it is needed.

How do you make the application?

The easiest way to make the application is via the UK ETA app. Links to the app are below:

• Apple - UK ETA on the App Store (apple.com)
• Android - UK ETA – Apps on Google Play
• It is also possible to make an application online - How to apply - Apply for an ETA to come to the UK - GOV.UK (homeoffice.gov.uk)

Forvis Mazars can answer any questions you may have in relation to the ETA and how to ensure that your organisation can embed these changes to UK entry into your current travel and business traveller policies and processes. We are also able to assist with ETA applications if required.

For further information please contact the Forvis Mazars Immigration team.

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