Immigration News & Updates

New UK Entry Rules: ETA Required for 48 Visa-Exempt Countries Starting January 2025/

Starting January 2025, travelers from 48 visa-exempt countries need to apply for a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). Here’s everything you need to know.

New UK Entry Rules: ETA Required for 48 Visa-Exempt Countries

Starting January 8, 2025, travelers from 48 visa-exempt countries will need to secure a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before entering the United Kingdom. This new requirement simplifies the entry process while enhancing security at UK borders. Below, we’ll explain the key details about the UK ETA, the countries affected, and the application process to ensure a smooth journey.

What is the UK ETA?

The UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a digital entry requirement that applies to travelers from 48 countries previously exempt from UK visas. Similar to the U.S. ESTA and South Korea’s K-ETA, the UK ETA allows the government to pre-screen visitors before their arrival. This system enhances border security while making travel easier for eligible travelers.

• Permitted Stay: Up to 6 months per visit
• Application Opens: November 27, 2024
• Mandatory Entry Requirement: January 8, 2025
• Application Process: Online via the UK government website or mobile app
• Cost: £10 (approximately $13/€13)
• Processing Time: Typically, within hours
• Validity: 2 years

Who Needs a UK ETA?

From November 27, 2024, travelers from 48 visa-exempt countries will be able to apply for the UK ETA. However, it becomes a mandatory requirement for all such travelers starting January 8, 2025, for visits related to tourism, family visits, or transit.

Countries Eligible for UK ETA

The following 48 countries are eligible to apply for the UK ETA:

1. Antigua and Barbuda
2. Argentina
3. Australia
4. Bahamas
5. Barbados
6. Belize
7. Botswana
8. Brazil
9. Brunei
10. Canada
11. Chile
12. Costa Rica
13. Grenada
14. Guatemala
15. Guyana
16. Hong Kong
17. Israel
18. Japan
19. Kiribati
20. Macau
21. Malaysia
22. Maldives
23. Marshall Islands
24. Mauritius
25. Mexico
26. Micronesia
27. Nauru
28. New Zealand
29. Nicaragua
30. Palau
31. Panama
32. Papua New Guinea
33. Paraguay
34. Peru
35. Saint Kitts and Nevis
36. Saint Lucia
37. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
38. Samoa
39. Seychelles
40. Singapore
41. Solomon Islands
42. South Korea
43. Taiwan
44. Tonga

Colombia Excluded from ETA Program

Colombian nationals, initially expected to benefit from the UK ETA, will not be included. Due to increased asylum claims and high refusal rates, starting December 24, 2024, Colombians must apply for a traditional visa to enter the UK. In response, Colombia will introduce reciprocal visa requirements for British travelers.

How to Apply for a UK ETA

Applying for a UK ETA is quick and simple. Travelers can submit their application online via the UK government’s official ETA portal or use the “UK ETA” mobile app, available on both iOS and Android. The application requires:

• Personal details and passport information
• A recent passport photo
• Answers to security questions

After paying the £10 fee, approval is typically granted within hours. Once approved, the ETA is valid for two years and permits multiple visits of up to 6 months each.

Upcoming Changes for European Nationals

Starting March 5, 2025, European nationals from 34 countries will also be required to apply for an ETA before traveling to the UK. Here’s the list of these countries:

1. Andorra
2. Austria
3. Belgium
4. Bulgaria
5. Croatia
6. Cyprus
7. Czech Republic
8. Denmark
9. Estonia
10. Finland
11. France
12. Germany
13. Greece
14. Hungary
15. Iceland
16. Italy
17. Latvia
18. Lithuania
19. Luxembourg
20. Malta
21. Monaco
22. Netherlands
23. Norway
24. Poland
25. Portugal
26. Romania
27. San Marino
28. Slovakia
29. Slovenia
30. Spain
31. Sweden
32. Switzerland
33. Vatican City
34. Liechtenstein

Special Exemptions

Under certain circumstances, school groups from France may be exempt from the ETA requirement, allowing for seamless travel.

Apply for Your UK ETA Today

Planning a trip to the UK in 2025? Don’t wait until the last minute—apply for your UK ETA today. You can find the application form and additional information on the official UK government website.

Travel to the UK with Confidence

The new UK ETA system ensures a more secure and streamlined entry process. By securing your ETA ahead of time, you’ll avoid delays at the border, ensuring a hassle-free trip to the United Kingdom.