Starting 2nd April, European travellers heading to the United Kingdom will need to obtain and present an Electronic Travel Authorisation, also known as the ETA, before departure. This new requirement applies to visitors arriving in Britain for short-term studies, leisure trips, authorised professional activities or transit.
The UK’s new Electronic Travel Authorisation is coming into effect next month, putting the final nail in the coffin for visa-free travel between the European Union and those with third country status, such as Monaco.
Though it requires a bit of effort, the ETA is unlike a traditional visa and is touted as a simpler and faster process, with an online application system and an average processing time of just three working days.
Upon approval, the ETA is digitally linked to the traveller’s passport. It has been designed for travellers visiting the UK for leisure, business, short-term studies or those passing through in transit. It does not replace other visas needed for longer stays.
See more: Planning a UK trip? Monégasque travellers will need new entry pass from April 2025
The cost of obtaining an ETA is set at £10, roughly €12, but this price is expected to increase to €16 as of 9th April. Once issued, the ETA remains valid for two years or until the linked passport expires, whichever comes first. It allows multiple short stays, with a maximum duration of six months per visit.
To apply for an ETA, visitors must provide a valid biometric passport from a country with a UK visa exemption, which includes EU, EEA and Swiss citizens, a recent high-quality digital photo, a valid email address and an electronic payment method. Since the application process is fully digital, travellers are advised to ensure all documents meet the required standards to avoid delays.
One notable exemption to the ETA requirement is for school-aged children who are 18 and under who go to the UK as part of an organised school trip. These students must carry an exit permit, a copy of their parents’ identification documents and a valid passport or identity card.
As the implementation date approaches, travellers are encouraged to apply well in advance of their departure to avoid any last-minute complications.
Applications for the ETA were opened on 5th March for European citizens and can be completed through the UK government website or via the UK ETA mobile application, available on both the App Store and Google Play.
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