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2024 saw the initial introduction of the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme, which was brought in to fully replace the previous Electronic Visa Waiver system as a new way of managing which nationals of different countries could enter the UK without a visa.Â
The UK Government has established the ETA to try and streamline the visa-free entry system and have an easily accessible electronic status that is linked to a person’s passport. Please note that it is only for people who plan on visiting the UK for up to six months, like the Visitor Visa. People who want to come to the UK to study or work will need a visa, though there are concessions for the Creative Worker Visa.Â
At first only a small number of countries were added to slowly implement the new system and make sure it functioned effectively; these were: Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates were the only countries that could access the ETA, though Jordan has since been removed.Â
Throughout 2025, more countries like the USA will be added to the ETA until it is fully rolled out. The introductory dates vary, with some countries being added on 8 January 2025, and others being added on 5 March 2025
Countries added to the ETA in January 2025
The following countries and related territories were added to the ETA in January 2025:Â
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Argentina
- Australia
- The Bahamas
- Barbados
- Belize
- Botswana
- Brazil
- Brunei
- Canada
- Chile
- Costa Rica
- Grenada
- Guatemala
- Guyana
- Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (including British national overseas)
- Israel
- Japan
- Kiribati
- Macao Special Administrative Region
- Malaysia
- Maldives
- Marshall Islands
- Mauritius
- Mexico
- Federated States of Micronesia
- Nauru
- New Zealand
- Nicaragua
- Oman
- Palau
- Panama
- Papua New Guinea
- Paraguay
- Peru
- Samoa
- Seychelles
- Singapore
- Solomon Islands
- South Korea
- St Kitts and Nevis
- St Lucia
- St Vincent and the Grenadines
- Taiwan (if you have a passport issued by Taiwan that includes in it the number of the identification card issued by the competent authority in Taiwan)
- Tonga
- Trinidad and Tobago
- Tuvalu
- United States of America
- Uruguay
Colombia was also originally going to be introduced to the ETA, but was removed following a Statement of Changes to the Immigration Rules in November 2024.Â
Over time, more countries may be added and removed to the list, which depends on future events.Â
Countries to be added in March 2025
March will see the introduction of EU and European Free Trade Association countries to the ETA. The list is as follows:
- Andorra
- Austria
- Belgium
- Bulgaria
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Czechia
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Monaco
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania
- San Marino
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Vatican City
How do I apply for an ETA?
Anyone interested in coming to the UK from the previously listed countries will need to apply for an ETA through the UK Government’s website. It should only take a few minutes for you to complete all the steps.
Once you have completed all the steps, you will need to pay. This is only a small fee of £10 (around $12.37).Â
Finally, all you will need to do is wait for your application to receive a decision. This can take anywhere from a few hours, to up to around three days.
How long does an ETA last for?
An ETA should last for up to two years, and allows for visits to the UK that last for up to six months.
If your passport expires during the two-year period that your ETA is valid for, then you will need to apply for a new ETA.Â
What about countries not on the ETA?
For countries not a part of the new Electronic Travel Authorisation scheme, not much has changed. They will still be subject to a visa regime, so anyone who wants to visit the UK from a country not mentioned in this blog will still need to apply for a visa.Â
This will also apply to any countries that are removed from the ETA in the future. For example, when Colombia was removed from the ETA, they were once again subjected to the previously existing visa regime.Â
What can I do on an ETA?
Many of the activities you can do are similar to the ones that you can carry out whilst in the UK on a Visitor Visa.Â
For example, you can:
- Carry out a permitted paid engagement, such as to speak at a conference or perform as a musician
- Have a holiday
- Undertake studies that last less than six months
- Visit for business activities such as attending meetings
- Visit friends and family
Additionally, those planning on coming to the UK on a Creative Worker Visa for up to three months can instead apply for an ETA. However, they will still need a valid Certificate of Sponsorship from their UK-based employer that is sponsoring them to work here.
FAQs
Why was the ETA introduced?
To streamline the entry process, make it easier to track travellers entering the UK, and have an easily accessible status that border guards and travellers alike can easily view.
Who should apply for an ETA?
People from countries listed in this guide who want to visit the UK for up to six months should apply for an ETA.
What if I want to visit the UK to work or study?
To work or study in the UK, you will need to apply for a visa like normal.
How much does the ETA cost?
The ETA costs £10.
What if my ETA is refused?
If your ETA is refused, you may have to apply for a visa instead.
Can I get an ETA instead of a Marriage Visa?
No, you will need to apply for a Marriage Visa if you want to get married in the UK.
How we can help
As immigration experts, we can assist you if you encounter any difficulties when you apply for Electronic Travel Authorisation. Additionally, we can assist you with applying for a visa if you plan on visiting for more than six months, or you are from a country that is not included on the scheme.
If you are interested in getting our specialist advice, then please contact us by phone, email, our website chatbot, or by booking a free 10-minute assessment to talk to a member of our helpful team.
After your initial discussion, you can book a longer, paid consultation that lasts either 30 minutes or an hour, during which you will be given legal advice from either one of our immigration specialists, or our Principal Solicitor, Nathan Woodcock. They will help you plan your next steps.Â
Get in touch today to see what we can do for you.  Â
Ready for assistance?
If you have any questions, or want to book an appointment with one of our legal experts, contact Woodcock Law today. Call us on +44 (0)20 7712 1705 or email info@woodcocklaw.co.uk.
