Starting soon, visitors to the UK who don’t currently need a visa for short stays will require an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). This system is similar to the US ESTA and applies to many travellers.
Who Needs an ETA?
- Nationals of Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain, Kuwait, and the UAE already require an ETA.
- From 8 January 2025, non-European travellers from countries such as the USA, Canada, the Maldives, and certain Caribbean islands will require an ETA.
- From 2 April 2025, European travellers who don’t need a visa will also require an ETA. Applications open for Europeans on 5 March 2025.
Nationals from the following Caribbean islands will need an ETA to travel to the UK:
Antigua and Barbuda
The Bahamas
Barbados
Grenada
Saint Kitts and Nevis
Saint Lucia
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Trinidad and Tobago
Exemptions
You won’t need an ETA if you have:
- A British or Irish passport
- Permission to live, work, or study in the UK
- A visa for UK entry
Cost and Application
- An ETA costs £10 per applicant.
- Full details and applications: www.gov.uk/electronic-travel-authorisation
Moving to eVisas for UK Visa Holders
The UK is transitioning from physical immigration documents to eVisas.
Key Updates for Visa Holders:
- eVisa Access:
- If you have a UK visa, create a UK Visas and Immigration account to access your eVisa: www.gov.uk/eVisa.
- Link Your Passport:
- If your travel passport isn’t linked to your eVisa, update your account here: www.gov.uk/update-uk-visas-immigration-account-details.
- BRP or EUSS BRC Holders:
- If your card expires on or after 31 December 2024 and you still have permission to stay, continue carrying it when travelling until 31 March 2025.
Need Help?
- A 24/7 passenger support helpline is available for those travelling to the UK imminently.
- Guidance on ensuring your eVisa details are correct: www.gov.uk/guidance/making-sure-your-evisa-is-correct-before-you-travel.
Full information about eVisas can be found at: www.gov.uk/eVisa
Make sure to review these changes before your trip. Contact your local Going Places Travel Advisor for assistance!
