ETA Travel Requirement for eligible European visitors to the UK from 2nd April 2025

Following the opening of the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme to eligible Europeans on 5th March, from the 2nd April they will now need an ETA to travel to the UK.

This means that all non-visa national visitors who do not need a visa will need an ETA. More information about eligibility and when individual nationalities will need an ETA is available at GOV.UK.

Eligible visitors should apply for their ETA through the UK ETA app, which is quick and simple to use and enables most applicants to receive a decision within hours. For more information see: Apply for an electronic travel authorisation (ETA).

Please note: as you are aware, during the current pre-enforcement period, visitors from countries whose citizens currently do not require a visa for short-term visits will still be permitted to travel to the UK even if they do not hold an ETA and must not be refused carriage on this basis. You will not be liable for a penalty charge related to ETA checks (permission to travel), and passengers will not be refused at the border solely for failure to hold an ETA.

People who require a visa to visit the UK will continue to do so and should not obtain an ETA. Those who are exempt from immigration control will not require an ETA.

The introduction of the UK ETA is a significant change for many travellers who previously did not need to interact with the Home Office prior to travelling. The UK Government continues to work closely with the travel industry, international businesses, short-term education providers and other organisations that attract visitors to the UK, to ensure visitors understand the steps they need to take before they travel to the UK.

Please refer to the sGAR Knowledge Hub for more information.