Brexit has redefined travel between Europe and the UK. Currently, most EU citizens must obtain pre-approval before traveling by plane or ferry to the United Kingdom. This digital permit is called the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).
If you’re wondering whether you need an ETA for UK travel, the answer is generally yes.
To clarify, the UK ETA is not a visa. Rather, it’s a pre-screening authorization for visa-exempt travelers to the UK. Think of it as the United Kingdom’s version of the US ESTA.
Overall, the ETA applies to most EU citizens traveling to the UK for a short period.
In this guide, we take you through the essential travel information for EU citizens.
What Is the UK ETA?
As mentioned, the UK ETA is a digital travel authorization that applies to EU citizens. Specifically, it allows eligible travelers to enter the United Kingdom for short visits.
You apply online before departure. Next, airlines verify your ETA before boarding.
Notably, the system strengthens border control while keeping short-term travel simple.
An approved ETA typically allows:
- Tourism
- Business visits
- Short-term study
- Visiting family
- Transit through the UK
Note that it does not allow long-term work or residence.
All in all, the UK government designed the ETA system to screen travelers before arrival. Correspondingly, this mirrors systems used by the United States, Canada, and Australia. In a February 2026 factsheet, the UK Home Office noted that 19.6 million ETAs had been issued since the system’s launch.
In summary, the rollout reflects a global shift toward digital border management.
Do EU Citizens Need an ETA?
Yes, most EU citizens now need a UK ETA for short stays. In particular, this applies to visits of up to six months.
Hence, if you are traveling for tourism, business meetings, or family visits, then you likely need one.
However, there are important exceptions.
You do NOT need a UK ETA if:
- You are an Irish citizen.
- You hold a valid UK visa.
- You have a settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme.
- You are a legal resident in the UK.
To clarify, Irish citizens remain exempt under the Common Travel Area agreement.
If you already have immigration permission, then you do not need an ETA. Meanwhile, everyone else should assume the requirement applies.
When in doubt, ask yourself: “Do I need an ETA for UK entry if I’m visiting temporarily?” If you are an EU tourist, then the answer is almost certainly yes.
Who Is Covered?
The UK ETA applies to visa-exempt nationalities. So, this includes most European Union member states. For instance, citizens of France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Poland, and other EU countries fall under the scheme.
For the most part, the UK has expanded the program in phases.
Overall, the goal is simple: 100 percent digital pre-screening for non-Visa travelers. So, do not confuse the UK ETA with ETIAS, as this applies to travel into the European Union.
In contrast, the UK ETA applies only to entry into the United Kingdom. Simply put, different systems, different borders.
When ETA Became Mandatory
The UK introduced the ETA in phases starting in 2023. In time, by 2025, most EU citizens will be eligible and required to apply.
Today, airlines must deny boarding without an approved ETA, as carriers face penalties for transporting unauthorized travelers. Hence, this makes compliance critical.
If you show up at the airport without ETA approval, then you may not fly, as this would be a costly mistake.
As such, apply early to avoid stress.
Getting an ETA
In summary, the UK ETA application is simple and entirely online. Correspondingly, here’s a step-by-step guide for EU citizens:
Step 1: Visit the EVS platform. Notably, 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 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, a credit card, or a debit card.
Step 6: Pay the application fee.
Step 7: Receive your UK ETA. Next, you will receive an email with the decision. The authorization will be linked to your passport digitally.
Once approved, the authorization 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.
Apply early. Do not wait until the week before your trip. Early applications reduce stress and allow time for corrections if needed. If you renew your passport before travel, reapply for a new ETA.
Ready to get started with your application? Then click the button below to obtain your ETA.
How Long Is a UK ETA Valid?
In particular, an approved ETA is typically valid for multiple entries. In addition, it remains valid for up to two years or until your passport expires.
So, you may stay up to six months per visit. Remember that each entry must still meet standard visitor conditions.
Also, note that border officers retain final discretion at arrival. As such, the ETA does not guarantee admission. Rather, it authorizes you to travel to the UK border.
How Much Does an ETA Cost?
The fee is modest compared to traditional visas. So, expect to pay a small government processing charge.
However, the cost may adjust over time. Hence, always confirm the current fee on the official government website.
Common Mistakes of EU Citizens
Small errors cause big delays, so avoid these common problems:
- Entering incorrect passport numbers
- Using a passport that expires soon
- Waiting until the day of departure
- Applying through unofficial websites
- Ignoring confirmation emails
Overall, double-check all data before submitting, as your passport details must match exactly. If your passport changes, then your ETA becomes invalid.
Moreover, apply early, especially during peak travel seasons, as summer travel spikes increase processing volume.
Why the UK Introduced the ETA
The UK wants stronger border control. Correspondingly, digital pre-clearance improves security screening. Furthermore, it also speeds up airport processing.
Generally, governments worldwide now use similar systems.
For instance, the United States has ESTA, and Canada has eTA. Meanwhile, Australia uses ETA. Meanwhile, the UK joined this digital border model, as the ETA balances security with traveler convenience.
What If Your ETA Is Refused?
Overall, refusals are rare but possible. Common reasons include incorrect information or past immigration violations.
If refused, then you may need to apply for a standard visitor visa.
But refusal does not automatically ban future travel. So, review the reason carefully before reapplying. Moreover, seek professional advice if unsure.
Final Thoughts
Today, travel between Europe and the UK has entered a new era. Most EU citizens now need a UK ETA for short stays.
Generally, the process is simple, digital, and fast.
As a rule, apply early and double-check your passport details. Correspondingly, plan ahead, and your trip to the UK should be smooth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an ETA for UK if I’m from France or Germany?
Yes. Most EU citizens now require a UK ETA for short visits.
Do children need a UK ETA?
Yes. Each traveler must have an individual ETA, including minors.
Can I apply at the airport?
No. You must apply online before traveling. Airlines may deny boarding without approval.
Can I still enter the UK without an ETA?
From February 2026, visa-exempt travelers must have an ETA before traveling to the UK for a short stay. “This is a significant step towards digitising the immigration system and paves the way for a contactless UK border in the future,” wrote the UK Home Office on its website.
Is an ETA required for transit through the UK?
Yes, if you pass through UK passport control. But if you remain airside and do not clear immigration, then the authorization may not be required.
How soon should I apply for a UK ETA?
Apply at least three days before your trip. Doing so gives time for extra review if needed.
Is the ETA fee refundable if denied?
No. The government does not refund the fee if your application is refused.
Photo by Waldemar Brandt on Unsplash
