Apply for an ETA prior to travel

Since Brexit, the United Kingdom has changed entry rules for EU citizens. EU citizens must now be in possession of a valid UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) to travel to the United Kingdom.

The system was developed to strengthen border control and security by screening travelers in advance. Travelers must apply for an ETA prior to travel. 

The UK ETA is intended for visa-free travelers, such as EU citizens, and is valid for multiple trips. An ETA travel authorisation is valid for a period of two years, or until the applicant's passport expires, whichever comes first. A stay of up to six months is permitted per visit, but only for authorized travel purposes.

Applying for an ETA

Travelers can apply for an ETA via the official UK government website or app. The travel authorisation is linked to the passport and is valid for multiple trips within a period of 2 years.

It is recommended to submit the application well in advance of departure. The cost is approximately £20, depending on the current government levy.

An ETA application is simple and, in most cases, can be completed without any assistance. It is not necessary to pay a third party to apply for a UK ETA.

You can find more information about the Electronic Travel Authorisation on the official UK government website: https://www.gov.uk/eta

Travel Documents

Travelers must possess a valid biometric passport to travel to the United Kingdom with an ETA. A biometric passport (e-passport) is a travel document containing an invisible RFID chip on which your biometric data is stored. You can recognize the document by the gold camera icon (the e-symbol) on the cover of your passport.

Duration of stay

Visitors can stay in the UK for a maximum of six months with an ETA, but only for authorised travel purposes. This period cannot be extended. It is not permitted to live, work, or study long-term in the United Kingdom with an ETA.