UK Now Requires New Travel Document for International Visitors

International visitors to the United Kingdom, including from the United States and Canada, now require a new travel document called an ETA.

You won’t be allowed entry without it, but you can get one easily online before you travel.

The Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system is designed to modernize and secure the entry process for millions of travelers each year.

The U.K. is the third most-visited destination by Americans, with more than 90 million annual visitors.

The new document requirement went into effect on Jan. 8, 1025.

What Is the U.K.’s ETA?

The ETA is not a visa. Instead, it serves as a digital authorization for travelers from non-visa-required countries to enter the U.K.

The system is designed to provide the U.K. government with better oversight of who is traveling to its borders.

When boarding a plane to the U.K., gate agents will verify every passenger’s ETA status via digital link to the traveler’s passport, with the goal of reducing time and confusion at border crossings.

The ETA also enhances security by allowing authorities to prevent entry to those who might pose a threat, even if they are only transiting through U.K. airports.

The ETA is required for Americans, Canadians and others who do not hold dual citizenship, visas, or permissions to live, work, or study in the U.K.

This includes all travelers, even infants and children, though one person can submit applications for multiple individuals.

Note – A similar travel document, called an ETIAS, will be required to visit the rest of Europe starting later in 2025.

Who Needs the ETA?

Travelers need the ETA for several types of visits, including:

Tourism and family visits.
Business trips or attending work conferences.
Short-term study of up to six months.
Creative Worker visa concessions for up to three months.
Permitted paid engagements.
Transit through U.K. airports.

Those intending to stay longer or work or study in the U.K. for extended periods will still need appropriate visas.

Click this link to the official Gov.UK website page about the ETA website for additional information.

Windsor Castle at the end of a long tree-lined path — Visit Britain photo of Windsor Castle

Applying for the ETA

Applications for the ETA opened on November 27, 2023, for travel starting January 8, 2024.

The most efficient way to apply is via the U.K. ETA mobile app, which provides faster processing, but an online application is also available through a computer.

To apply, travelers need:

A valid passport.
A functional email address.
An online payment method.

Applicants must provide personal, biometric, and contact details, as well as answer security questions. The process includes uploading a passport photo and a facial image of the applicant.

Again – click this link to the official Gov.UK website page about the ETA website for additional information.

Cost, Duration & Processing Time

The ETA application costs £10 (approximately $12.58) per person and is nonrefundable.

Once approved, it remains valid for two years, allowing multiple entries to the U.K. for up to six months per visit.

However, the ETA is linked to the passport used for the application, meaning a new passport requires a new ETA.

The application process is expected to take around 10 minutes, with most decisions issued within three business days.

Travelers will receive their ETA via email. In cases of denial, applicants will be informed of the reason and allowed to reapply.

However, denials cannot be appealed, and in such cases, travelers may need to apply for a visa instead.

Limitations of the ETA

While the ETA is a necessary pre-travel step, it does not guarantee entry into the U.K.

Border Force officers will make the final decision upon the traveler’s arrival, and all visitors must present their passport at the border.

ETA System Announced in 2023

The U.K. government announced the ETA system in early 2023 as part of its vision to deliver a streamlined, digital immigration system. Initially scheduled to launch at the end of 2023, the rollout was delayed until early 2025.

Officials emphasize that the system will improve the speed and security of border crossings. Similar electronic systems already exist in countries like the U.S., Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and soon, the entire European Union.

While the ETA adds an additional step for travelers, the U.K. Home Office promises that the application process will be straightforward, with minimal costs and effort required.

Implications for the Travel Industry

The ETA system represents a shift in global travel norms and is likely to impact various parts of the travel industry:

Streamlining Processes: Travel agencies and tour operators must familiarize themselves with the new requirement and assist customers in completing applications.
Operational Adjustments: Airlines will need to ensure passengers have valid ETAs before boarding, potentially adding to check-in procedures.
Market Dynamics: The fee and additional step might influence traveler choices, particularly for those making short visits or frequent trips to the U.K.

Airport arrivals/departures board to illustrate article on most stressful airports in USA_ecoXplorer — Photo: Pexels/JoshSorenson

Global Effects on Travelers

For U.S. travelers, the ETA introduces an additional layer of planning and cost, but it aligns with global trends in digital immigration systems.

Many travelers are already accustomed to similar processes when visiting other countries such as Canada, Australia and New Zealand. However, first-time visitors may need guidance to navigate the system.

For the global travel community, the ETA reflects a growing emphasis on security and data collection in immigration policies. It highlights the need for travelers to stay informed about evolving entry requirements in different countries.

Preparing for the Future

The implementation of the ETA is a key step in the U.K.’s broader efforts to modernize its border controls. By leveraging digital technology, the system aims to create a more secure and efficient entry process while maintaining the U.K.’s position as a leading travel destination.

As the program rolls out, travelers and industry stakeholders will need to adapt to ensure a seamless transition.

ecoXplorer Evelyn Kanter is a journalist with 25+ years of experience as a newspaper and magazine writer, radio & TV news producer & reporter, and author of guidebooks and smartphone apps – all focusing on travel, automotive, the environment and your rights as a consumer.