Travelling to the UK This Summer? Don’t Forget Your ETA
Anyone planning to visit the UK this summer should check whether they need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before travelling. The UK Government has now fully rolled out the digital travel permission system for most eligible visa-free travellers, making it an essential part of the journey for millions of visitors.
An ETA is not a visa but a digital permission to travel that must be obtained before boarding a flight, train, or ferry to the UK. Travellers who require an ETA but do not have one may be refused boarding, making it important to apply well before departure.
Who Needs a UK ETA?
The ETA requirement now applies to most eligible visa-free nationals, including travellers from many European countries, the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and several other countries. British and Irish citizens, as well as people who already hold a valid UK visa or immigration status, generally do not need an ETA.
Applications are completed online through the official GOV.UK website or the UK ETA app. The current application fee is £20, and an approved ETA is generally valid for multiple visits over two years, or until the passport used in the application expires.
Tips Before You Travel
The UK Government recommends applying for an ETA before making final travel arrangements and ensuring your passport details are correctly linked to your application. Most decisions are made quickly, but travellers are encouraged to allow enough time in case additional checks are required.
As more countries become familiar with digital travel authorisation systems, checking entry requirements before travelling has become more important than ever. Whether you’re visiting the UK for tourism, business, or to see family and friends, making sure you have the correct travel permission can help you avoid unnecessary delays and enjoy a smoother journey.
Have you already applied for your UK ETA? Talk to us in the comment section below. Or if you need more advice on the above, contact us for further travel & immigration advice.
Check out the deals we have found below and tell us your travel plans.
Check out the offers and discounts from:
And because of the pandemic, don’t forget to get your travel insurance, which will cover you for flight disruptions and pandemic related matters.
IaM can help with your visa application to Europe, the United States, the UK & other countries
If you need help with a US visa, a UK Visa, or a visa to Europe, including help with appointment booking obligations, IaM can help. For more information and advice on US immigration, UK immigration law and US visa applications or if you need any help or assistance please, reach out to your Visa Coordinator at IaM.
Some of our posts include affiliate links. If you choose to purchase any of these products, we might get a small commission. For more information, check out our TOS.
- EU and US Plan New Border Security Deal: What Could Change for Travellers? - 11 September 2026
- UK Citizenship Costs £1,839: Why Are the Fees So High? - 10 September 2026
- Your Schengen Visa Can Be Refused for These 5 Reasons - 9 September 2026
