New Era for EU Citizens Traveling to the UK

As of April 2, 2025, European Union (EU) citizens will be required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for short-term trips (less than six months) to the United Kingdom for purposes such as tourism, business, or education.

For longer stays, a visa will still be necessary. This new system applies to all short-term travels to England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, and the Channel Islands.

ETA applications can be made online through the UK government’s official website. Applications are typically approved within three days, and the authorization is valid for two years from the approval date. The application fee is set at £10 (approximately €12).

This new system will not cause significant changes at UK border checkpoints. The ETA will be integrated into the passport system, and it will be automatically visible when the passport is scanned.