Starting Wednesday, European nationals will need a mandatory entry permit to visit the UK, marking a significant change to the country’s long-standing travel rules.
The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) will be required for all Europeans, following a similar system to the US ESTA, and is expected to enhance UK border security.
The ETA, which costs £10 (12 euros) for applications made in the coming days, will rise to £16 starting April 9.
The permit is valid for two years and allows stays of up to six months.
Applicants will need to submit a photo of their passport and face, with most applications processed within minutes.
However, the government recommends allowing up to three working days for approval.
This move, which expands the ETA scheme launched in 2023, will apply to citizens from 30 European countries, including all EU members except Ireland.
The initiative, which began in January for non-European nationals, is part of the UK’s efforts to digitise immigration and strengthen border control.
Although the ETA is required for all visitors, those merely transiting through UK airports without crossing the border, such as at Heathrow and Manchester, are exempt from the new rule.
