Starting Wednesday (2 April 2025), European citizens will be required to obtain mandatory entry authorisation to enter the United Kingdom. The UK government believes that this overhaul of travel rules will enhance border security.

The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) can be purchased online in the coming days for £10 (approximately €12). However, from 9 April, the price will increase to £16.

The authorisation allows visits of up to six months and is valid for two years. It is mandatory for all travellers, including minors and infants. The application, which can be submitted either through a smartphone app or via the official government website, has been open to Europeans since early March.

The UK has opted for a system similar to the one used in the United States. The measure has already been implemented for citizens of several countries, including Americans and Canadians.

“A commitment to strengthen security”

“With the digitisation of the immigration system, we are paving the way for a contactless UK border,” said Immigration Minister Seema Malhotra earlier this month, when the application portal opened for initial submissions. “Expanding the ETA worldwide reaffirms our commitment to enhancing security through technology and innovation.”

In addition to EU countries (excluding Ireland), the measure will also apply to nationals of around 30 other European countries.