It’s good to keep an eye out for current travel news. A few days ago, I read an article about the UK requiring all travelers to apply for and receive an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for the UK. We have a layover in London on our upcoming trip to South Africa.
Our layover is only five hours, but the ETA is a requirement, even for only a few minutes. Without it, the airline won’t let you board your originating flight, or the cruise line won’t allow you to board, which would be a nightmare.
As a result, we felt we needed to share this information with our readers, many of whom may be traveling through or to the UK in the future. The ETA payment (IS $12.50) and process are required for travel after tomorrow, January 8, 2025. This also applies to any ports of call visited in the UK while on cruises. Airlines and cruise lines do not help provide this information.
What are the new visa requirements for travel to the UK in January 2025?
Starting January 8, 2025, travelers from visa-exempt countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and Mexico, must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before visiting the United Kingdom. Check with your country’s State Department to see if this is required.
Key Details about the UK ETA:
Purpose: The ETA serves as a pre-approval for entry, enhancing border security and streamlining the entry process.
Eligibility: This is required for citizens of visa-exempt countries traveling to the UK for tourism, business, short-term study, or family visits for up to six months. This includes travelers transiting through the UK.
Application Process:
- When to Apply: Applications are open now for travel on or after January 8, 2025
How to Apply:
- You can apply online via the UK government’s official website or the UK ETA app. The process involves providing personal and passport information, uploading a photo, and paying the application fee.
You can apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for the UK online at GOV.UK or through the UK ETA app:
Link to apply at UK government site: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apply-for-an-electronic-travel-authorisation-eta or use their app…App: Download the UK ETA app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store
Processing Time:
- Decisions are typically made within three working days, so it’s advisable to apply well in advance of your travel date
Cost:
- The ETA application fee is £10 (approximately $12.50).
Validity:
- An approved ETA is valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first, and allows multiple entries into the UK during its validity period.
Exemptions:
- UK and Irish citizens and individuals with a valid UK visa or residence permit are exempt from the ETA requirement.
Please note that possession of an ETA does not guarantee entry into the UK; UK Border Force officers make final entry decisions upon arrival.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, refer to the UK government’s official guidance on the ETA application process.
Wow! It’s a good thing we caught this. When we booked our flights with the London layover a few months ago, this requirement was not mentioned.
Be well.
Photo from ten years ago today, January 7, 2015:
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| Clouds obscuring a pie slice of last night’s moon from Big Island, Hawaii. For more photos, please click here. |