The UK is expanding its ETA requirement to more visitors: Here’s what you need to know and how CIBTvisas can help.
 

By: Paul Buckley

September 12, 2024

In a significant development, the UK Government has announced the expansion of its digital travel authorization scheme, known as the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), to a broader group of international visitors. This move aims to streamline entry processes and strengthen border security as part of the UK’s broader immigration strategy.  

What’s new with the UK ETA expansion? 

The UK has just announced that it is expanding its digital travel system to include travelers from various nations who were previously exempt from visa requirements. From November 27, 2024, citizens from countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, and other non-European visa-exempt countries will need to apply for an ETA before entering the UK. This requirement will gradually extend to all visitors who do not require a visa for short stays, including visitors from Europe.  

The ETA functions similarly to the U.S. Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) or the European Union’s upcoming ETIAS system, allowing the UK to prescreen visitors for security and immigration purposes. The expansion is part of the UK’s efforts to enhance its border security. With this new system, the government seeks to balance security measures with a streamlined entry process, ensuring legitimate travelers can enter the UK with fewer complications. 

Background to the UK ETA 

The UK ETA was first introduced in early 2023 for travelers from select countries, including some Middle Eastern nations. Its expansion represents a crucial shift in the way the UK manages its borders and immigration processes.  

The system is designed to be quick and straightforward. Travelers must apply for the ETA online before their trip, providing personal details, passport information, and travel plans. Once granted, the ETA will be electronically linked to the traveler’s passport and allow them to visit the UK for short stays, including tourism, business, and family visits. The ETA will typically be valid for multiple visits over a period of time. 

Who needs to apply for a UK ETA?

The following nationalities can apply for a UK ETA now: 

• Bahrain

• Kuwait
• Oman
• Qatar
• Saudi Arabia
• United Arab Emirates

The following nationalities can apply for a UK ETA from November 27, 2024.

An ETA is required for these nationalities to travel to the UK from January 8, 2025

• Antigua and Barbuda
• Argentina
• Australia
• The Bahamas
• Barbados
• Belize
• Botswana
• Brazil
• Brunei
• Canada
• Chile
• Colombia
• Costa Rica
• Grenada
• Guatemala
• Guyana
• Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (including British national overseas)
• Israel
• Japan
• Kiribati
• Macao Special Administrative Region
• Malaysia
• Maldives
• Marshall Islands
• Mauritius
• Mexico
• Federated States of Micronesia
• Nauru
• New Zealand
• Nicaragua
• Palau
• Panama
• Papua New Guinea
• Paraguay
• Peru
• Samoa
• Seychelles
• Singapore
• Solomon Islands
• South Korea
• St Kitts and Nevis
• St Lucia
• St Vincent and the Grenadines
• Taiwan (if you have a passport issued by Taiwan that includes in it the number of the identification card issued by the competent authority in Taiwan)
• Tonga
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Tuvalu
• United States
• Uruguay

The following nationalities can apply for a UK ETA from March 5, 2025.

An ETA is required for these nationalities to travel to the UK from 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

How CIBTvisas can help secure your UK ETA 

Navigating the new travel requirements can be complex, but CIBTvisas is here to assist you every step of the way. With years of expertise in visa and travel documentation, CIBTvisas can simplify the process of obtaining an ETA, ensuring that travelers meet all necessary criteria and avoid potential issues. 

Here’s how CIBTvisas can support you: 

Guidance on eligibility: As the UK gradually rolls out the ETA, CIBTvisas can help you determine whether you need to apply and what the timeline looks like based on your nationality and travel plans. 

ETA application assistance: Our experts can handle the entire application process on your behalf, reducing the risk of delays or errors that could prevent your entry to the UK. 

Comprehensive travel documentation: In addition to helping with ETAs, CIBTvisas offers a wide range of services to assist with visas, passport renewals, and other documentation needed for international travel. 

Timely updates: The UK government is continually refining its travel and immigration policies. We keep you informed of any changes to ensure your documentation is always up to date. 

Whether you are a frequent business traveler or planning a one-time visit, CIBTvisas is equipped to make the application process seamless, allowing you to focus on your travel plans with confidence. 

The UK’s expansion of the ETA system is a significant step in modernizing its border control processes. While it introduces new requirements for millions of travelers, with the right support, it doesn’t have to complicate your plans. CIBTvisas is committed to helping travelers navigate this new system efficiently, ensuring that your journey to the UK is as smooth as possible. 

Visit our dedicated UK visa page for more information or to get started with your ETA application, contact CIBTvisas today. 

Read next: Europe has announced a firm date for the introduction of the Entry/Exit System.