Effective January 8, 2025, U.S. citizens traveling to the United Kingdom must have an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). Applications open November 27, 2024, marking a significant shift in how travelers enter the U.K. The new system aims to make entry more secure and efficient for visitors.
How it works:
Starting in January, tourists or business travelers from the United States—and many other countries—will need to complete an online application before traveling. The United Kingdom, which includes England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, is implementing this ETA system to screen visitors from visa-free countries in advance.
Like the U.S. ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization), the U.K. ETA will be digitally linked to the traveler’s passport, allowing for faster and more secure processing at the border.
You can learn more about U.K. travel requirements and stay up to date on the latest entry rules with G3 Global Services.
Travelers should take note of important dates related to the ETA requirement:
- November 27th, 2024: Non-European nationals can start applying for an ETA.
- January 8th, 2025: Non-Europeans must have an ETA to enter the UK.
- March 5th, 2025: European nationals can apply for an ETA.
- April 2nd, 2025: European nationals will need an ETA to enter the UK.
Starting November 27, 2024, travelers from the following countries can apply for an ETA for travel into the U.K. that begins on January 8, 2025, and later:
- Argentina
- Australia
- Bahamas
- Barbados
- Belize
- Brazil
- Canada
- Chile
- Colombia
- Costa Rica
- Japan
- Malaysia
- Mexico
- New Zealand
- Panama
- Singapore
- South Korea
- United States
ETA Application Requirements:
- A copy of a valid passport for the applicant (must be good for at least three months from planned date of arrival);
- Personal information including applicant’s name(s), surname, date and place of birth, nationality, home address, parents’ first names, email address, and phone number;
- Details about applicant’s level of education and current occupation;
- Details about applicant’s intended travel and stay; and
- Details about any criminal convictions, any past travels to war or conflict zones, and whether applicant has recently been subject of a decision requiring them to leave the territory of any country.
Before applying, confirm your passport is up to date. If it’s expired or nearing expiration, G3 can assist you with a passport renewal to ensure your documents are travel-ready.
How long will it take to get an ETA?
After submitting your ETA application, expect a decision within three working days. You’ll receive an email confirmation once approved, and your ETA will be automatically linked to your passport.
Each ETA is valid for two years (or until your passport expires) and allows for multiple entries into the U.K., with stays of up to six months per visit. If you get a new passport, you’ll need to reapply for a new ETA.
For travelers who require supporting documentation, G3 also provides document services such as authentication, notarization, and legalization to meet U.K. entry standards.
Stay Informed and Prepared
As with any new travel regulation, it’s essential to stay up to date on entry requirements and timelines. The U.K. ETA represents a shift toward digital pre-screening, helping streamline travel while improving border security.
For the latest updates on visa and entry policy changes—or if you need assistance with an application—contact G3 Global Services for expert support.