Photo credit: www.cntraveler.com
Travelers from the United States will soon be required to obtain authorization to enter or transit through the United Kingdom, marking a significant update in the travel regulations.
What is the ETA Processing Time?
Guests planning to travel to the UK are encouraged to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) several days ahead of their trip. While most applications receive approval within a few hours, it may take up to 72 hours for processing.
Duration of ETA Validity
Once approved, the ETA allows visitors to remain in the UK for as long as six months for purposes such as tourism or business. The ETA remains valid for a period of two years or until the expiration of the traveler’s passport, whichever event occurs first. This means travelers are not obliged to apply for a new ETA for each visit during this validity span.
With an active ETA, visitors can travel within the UK for a period of six months.
ETA Application Costs
The fee for the UK ETA is set at 10 pounds, which is roughly equivalent to $13. Additionally, the European Union will implement a similar system in 2025, charging 7 euros (around $8). In contrast, applying for a US Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) currently costs $21.
Who Needs an ETA?
The implementation of the ETA requirements will occur in stages, determined by nationality. Citizens of Gulf Cooperation Council countries, which include Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, have already been mandated to secure an ETA prior to their travel to the UK. Recent immigration statistics reveal that over 600,000 ETAs have been issued in the past year.
From January 8, 2025, eligible non-European travelers, including those from the US, Canada, and Australia, will be required to obtain ETAs. Following that, starting April 2, 2025, European travelers will also need an ETA to enter the UK as the new rules are fully implemented.
Requirements for ETA Application
To apply for an ETA, candidates must provide a valid passport, a recent digital photo that adheres to the UK’s photo specifications, an email address, details regarding travel plans, and a credit or debit card for the application fee.
For ongoing updates concerning the UK ETA, individuals are encouraged to consult the official government website as further guidance becomes available.
This information was adapted from a piece originally featured in Condé Nast Traveller UK.
Source
www.cntraveler.com