Introduction
Beginning in 2025, French passport holders visiting the UK must abide by an important new requirement: the UK ETA. In particular, this electronic travel authorization is mandatory for short stays. To clarify, it is not a visa. Nevertheless, travelers must still acquire it before their UK trip.
If you’re planning to visit the UK from France soon, then this guide covers essential information.
What Is the UK ETA?
The UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) is a digital entry permit. Specifically, it’s part of the UK’s new border control system that they introduced after Brexit.
Furthermore, the ETA helps the UK track who is entering the country, improving security and efficiency at the borders. It’s similar to other systems like the U.S. ESTA and the upcoming EU ETIAS. Hence, travelers who don’t need a full visa must obtain the ETA.
Do the French Need an ETA?
As French citizens enjoy visa-exempt travel when visiting the UK, they must apply for the ETA before entry. Correspondingly, this applies to visits for tourism, business, short study, or medical treatment.
Moreover, they must have an approved ETA before boarding their plane, train, or ferry to the UK. Even if they’re only staying a few days, the ETA is mandatory.
Until 2028, French school groups are exempt from the ETA requirement. In particular, this applies to students under the age of 18 who join school trips to the UK.
To clarify, the UK ETA does not replace a visa for long stays or work. Hence, if you’re planning to live, work, or study long-term, you’ll need a visa, not an ETA.
French Citizens and the ETA
Overall, the ETA application is simple and entirely online. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Visit the EVS platform. It simplifies the ETA application process so you can avoid going through complex visa processes.
At EVS, your personal and travel information remains safe and secure with its strict data protection regulations. Moreover, it provides you with expert guidance and seamless support to ensure a stress-free application journey.
Step 2: Upload a passport photo. It must have a plain, light-colored background without any shadows or objects behind you.
Step 3: Upload a scan or photo of your passport information page. Ensure the full passport photo page is inside the frame, including the two lines of numbers and letters at the bottom. Additionally, the passport of the minor must be valid for at least six months upon entering and exiting the UK.
Step 4: Provide your personal information:
- Contact details
- Home address
- Employment information
- Citizenship information
- Criminal history, if any
Overall, make sure that the information you provide matches what is on your passport.
Step 5: Review and confirm the information on your application. In particular, you can pay using suitable electronic payment methods such as Apple Pay, Google Pay, credit card, or debit card.
Step 6: Pay the application fee.
Step 7: Receive your UK ETA. You will receive an email with the decision. Next, the ETA will be linked to your passport digitally.
Once approved, the ETA is valid for multiple visits over a two-year period, or until your passport expires. Because mistakes can delay approval, make sure to triple-check all entries before you submit.
Ready to get started with your application? Then click the button below to obtain your ETA.
Entry Rules for French Citizens
While French citizens still enter the UK visa-free, the ETA adds a new step.
In 2025, border agents will check your ETA electronically upon arrival. Correspondingly, entry points like airports, Eurostar, and ferry ports will enforce ETA checks. Without a valid ETA, you may be denied boarding or entry. Meanwhile, customs and immigration procedures remain the same, apart from this added layer.
Although you don’t need a printout, your passport must nevertheless match the ETA data. Specifically, with the ETA, you can stay in the UK for up to six months per visit.
Preparing for UK Travel from France
If you’re planning UK travel from France, then apply for the ETA at least a week in advance. In addition, double-check that your passport is biometric and valid for the duration of your stay. Overall, for fast, reliable, and professional ETA processing, apply via EVS.
Additionally, save your ETA confirmation and keep it accessible on your device, just in case. Moreover, check for updates on the official UK government site before each trip.
Remember, the ETA is not a visa. It’s a pre-approval for short, visa-free visits. Hence, French citizens who overstay or break rules could face travel restrictions later.
Use the ETA system responsibly to ensure smooth UK entry.
ETA Facts for French Citizens
- Required from: 2025
- Who needs it: All French citizens entering the UK for short stays
- Validity: 2 years or until passport expiry
- Application: EVS
- Stay limit: Up to 6 months per visit
- Purpose allowed: Tourism, business, short study, family visits, medical care
- Required for: Air, train, and ferry travel
Conclusion
The UK ETA adds a new but simple step for French travellers entering the UK in 2025.
To clarify, it’s not a visa, and it won’t make travel harder—just more secure and streamlined.
As such, apply early, travel smart, and stay informed to make the most of your UK visits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I enter the UK more than once with one ETA?
Yes, your ETA is valid for two years or until your passport expires. You can enter the UK multiple times during this period for short stays.
Do I need an ETA to transit through the UK?
Yes, even for airport layovers, you will need an approved ETA from 2025.
I have dual French-UK citizenship. Do I still need an ETA?
No, if you travel with your UK passport, the ETA is not required.
What about children and families?
Every traveller, including children, needs their own ETA. Parents must apply for minors.
Does having an ETA guarantee entry?
No. Border agents can still deny entry for security, documentation, or conduct reasons.
What happens if I forget to apply for an ETA?
You may be denied boarding or refused entry to the UK.
Will the UK ETA apply to travel from other EU countries too?
Yes. The ETA applies based on your passport, not where you’re traveling from.
Which countries are eligible for the travel authorization?
In particular, business travelers from the following countries can apply for an ETA:
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Argentina
- Australia
- The Bahamas
- Bahrain
- Barbados
- Belize
- Botswana
- Brazil
- Brunei
- Canada
- Chile
- Costa Rica
- Grenada
- Guatemala
- Guyana
- Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (including British National overseas)
- Israel
- Japan
- Kiribati
- Kuwait
- Macao Special Administrative Region
- Malaysia
- Maldives
- Marshall Islands
- Mauritius
- Mexico
- Federated States of Micronesia
- Nauru
- New Zealand
- Nicaragua
- Oman
- Palau
- Panama
- Papua New Guinea
- Paraguay
- Peru
- Qatar
- Samoa
- Saudi Arabia
- Seychelles
- Singapore
- Solomon Islands
- South Korea
- St. Kitts and Nevis
- St. Lucia
- St. Vincent and the Grenadines
- Taiwan
- Toga
- Tuvalu
- United Arab Emirates
- United States
- Uruguay
Meanwhile, applications have opened for European travelers visiting the UK on or after April 2, 2025:
- Andorra
- Austria
- Belgium
- Bulgaria
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Czechia
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Monaco
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania
- San Marino
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Vatican City
This also covers eligible dual citizenships.
Photo: Evisa Express, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
