ETA for the UK: What You Need to Know Before Traveling

11.02.2026 | International news

From February 25, 2024, an ETA is mandatory for entry into the UK. Find out which travelers need it, how to apply, and important details.

Снимка от Colin, Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

From February 25th, travelers who do not possess an ETA will not be allowed to board a plane to the UK.

Arriving passengers with connecting flights (transit) who pass through UK passport control must also have an ETA issued. Those passengers who only transit through Heathrow and Manchester airports and do not go through UK passport control currently do not need an ETA.

Applying for an ETA is quick and easy. It costs £16 and allows multiple trips to the UK for stays of up to six months within two years, or until the passport expires. Visitors can find more information on GOV.UK or download the UK ETA app. Most applications are approved within minutes, but it is recommended to allow three working days.

British and Irish citizens do not need an ETA. The introduction of the ETA is part of improving the UK's digital immigration system.