Travelling to the UK? Prepare for the new ETA requirement

Starting 8 January 2025, the United Kingdom will require travellers from Canada, Israel, Singapore, the United States, and 48 other countries to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before entry. This phased rollout is part of the UK’s effort to digitise its borders by 2025 and bring its entry processes in line with systems like the U.S.’s Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) and Australia’s Electronic Travel Authority (ETA).

This article breaks down the details of the programme, what travellers need to know, and how tools like Navan can help businesses prepare.

What is the UK ETA programme?

The UK’s ETA programme is a digital, pre-travel requirement for visa-exempt travellers visiting for tourism, business, short-term study, or just transiting through the country. Unlike a visa, an ETA is not permission to work or stay long-term in the UK; it serves as a digital stamp of approval for entry tied to the passport’s unique number. 

• Cost: £10 per application
• Validity: Two years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first
• Processing time: Typically within three business days

Who needs an ETA?

Starting 8 January 2025, travellers from 48 countries, including the U.S., Canada, and Singapore, must apply for an ETA. By 2 April 2025, European nationals will also be required to have an ETA for entry.

Exceptions include:

• UK and Irish nationals
• Residents of the Common Travel Area (e.g. Ireland, Isle of Man)
• Individuals with a visa or other UK immigration status

For the complete list of eligible nationalities and application details, visit the official UK government ETA page.

How this impacts passport and travel rules for the UK

The introduction of the ETA programme adds a layer of pre-travel planning for many travellers. Passport holders from affected countries must check that their passports are valid and apply for an ETA before travel. 

To prepare, travellers should:

• Confirm their passport validity extends beyond their ETA period.
• Apply for the ETA well in advance of their planned travel date.
• Stay updated on any additional requirements for UK entry.

Read more about how the UK’s new travel rules will impact travellers in Navan’s Help Centre.

How to apply for the UK ETA

To apply for a UK ETA, follow these steps:

• Visit the official UK ETA website. Use the authorised government site to avoid scams or additional fees.
• Complete the online application form. Provide personal details, passport information, and your travel plans.
• Pay the application fee. The cost is £10, which you can pay with a credit or debit card.
• Submit your application. Once submitted, most applications are processed within three business days.
• Check your email for confirmation. Your approved ETA will be sent to your provided email address and linked electronically to your passport.

FAQs

How long does a UK ETA last?

A UK ETA is valid for two years, or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. During this time, you can use it for multiple trips to the UK, provided each visit meets the ETA’s conditions for tourism, business, short-term study, or transit.

Will U.S. citizens need an ETA for the UK?

Yes, starting 8 January 2025, U.S. citizens travelling to the UK will need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).

Is an ETA mandatory?

Yes, obtaining an ETA will be mandatory for travellers from eligible countries, including the U.S., Canada, and Singapore, beginning 8 January 2025.

Can I get an ETA at the airport?

No, you cannot apply for an ETA at the airport. Applications must be completed online before travel; approval is required before boarding your flight to the UK.

How long does it take to get an ETA?

ETA applications are typically processed within three business days. However, to avoid delays, it’s best to apply well in advance of your travel date.

What happens if I try to enter the UK without an ETA?

If you attempt to enter the UK without an ETA (and you’re from an eligible country), you will be denied boarding at your departure point or refused entry upon arrival.

Key dates to remember

• 27 November 2024: ETA applications open for eligible non-Europeans.
• 8 January 2025: ETA becomes mandatory for travellers from the U.S., Canada, and other eligible countries.
• 5 March 2025: ETA applications open for European nationals.
• 2 April 2025: ETA becomes mandatory for European nationals.

How Navan supports businesses with the new rules

Navan provides tools for smooth travel planning under the new UK ETA requirements. Here’s how your business can adapt:

1. Raise awareness with banner messages

Use Navan’s banner message feature to inform employees about the ETA requirement. Include links to application resources, such as the official UK government site, so travellers can take immediate action.

2. Generate travel reports for UK-bound trips

Create customised reports to track upcoming UK trips. Identify affected travellers in advance and streamline communication about ETA requirements.

3. Automate booking reports

Schedule booking reports to track UK-bound travellers. Automatically send reports to your team regularly, helping to ensure compliance and minimise disruption to business operations.

Preparing for a seamless travel experience

The UK’s expanded ETA programme represents a significant shift in how travellers access the country. Staying informed about the latest passport and travel rules for the UK is essential. With Navan’s tools, businesses can:

• Support employees to comply with new regulations.
• Minimise disruptions to travel schedules.
• Provide support for applying for ETAs and managing related requirements.

Start preparing today to help travellers navigate the updated UK travel rules smoothly. 

Ready to simplify travel planning for your team? Learn more about Navan’s travel management tools.