There’s no shortage of things to see and do throughout the UK, from the historic castles of England to the rugged coastlines of Northern Ireland. However, if you want to travel to the UK from 2025, it’s worth learning about the new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system.
We know that the information can seem overwhelming, which is why we’ve created this simple guide to understanding the ETA system. Spend less time navigating your travel requirements, and more planning your ideal Celtic Routes trip with our support. Here are the answers to a few questions you might have regarding the new system.
what is the uk eta system?
The ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) system is a way of providing travellers with quick and easy digital permission to enter the UK. It applies to visitors who don’t require a visa for short stays, including tourists, and is different from the UK’s visa requirements. It’s similar to the policies in place for visiting countries such as Canada and Australia. Your ETA will be automatically linked to your passport, so you may be unable to board a plane without it.
Through the ETA system, the UK Government can gain more information about individuals who are entering the country. This makes it a quick and easy way to improve the country’s border security, and prevent anyone who could be a threat from travelling there. If you’ve travelled to countries such as Canada or Australia before, you may be familiar with their similar policies.
who needs an eta?
As of 02/04/2025, eligible Europeans will need an ETA to travel to the UK. Visitors from other eligible countries such as the United States, Australia and Japan should apply for their ETA now if they want to visit the UK.
Those who are exempt from needing an ETA include UK and Irish citizens, as well as anyone who already has a visa. If you’re unsure which category you fall under, the UK Government’s website provides further advice and guidance. There’s also a series of videos on the Home Office’s YouTube channel which provide a helpful summary of the ETA system and application process.
how the eta system works
An ETA application costs just £10 and allows you to enjoy short stays in the UK or trips of up to six months. Your ETA will last for two years, but if you get a new passport within this time period, you’ll need to submit a new ETA application.
As your ETA is electronic, this means you don’t need to worry about additional packing or losing a paper copy on your travels. The application process is also quick and simple, with most applicants receiving the UK Government’s decision within three days.
To get started, all you need to do is download the UK ETA app, which will guide you through your application. Make sure you have your passport to hand, a contactable email address and a payment method such as a credit or debit card.
when and where it applies
The ETA system came into effect in November 2024 for certain nationalities, and will apply to eligible Europeans from 02/04/2025. An ETA is required to travel to all parts of the UK, including Northern Ireland, in line with the UK’s Immigration Rules.
Whilst the ETA system is not currently applicable to the Republic of Ireland, if you’re travelling to or from Ireland from the rest of the UK, you will still need an ETA for those parts of your trip. Just remember that Northern Ireland’s travel rules have changed to accommodate the ETA system, as this country is part of the United Kingdom. The Republic of Ireland hasn’t been a part of the UK since 1922, so has its own travel rules.
practical tips for travellers
The UK government recommends allowing at least three working days for your ETA to be processed, but it’s worth applying well in advance to avoid potential delays to your travel.
It’s also essential that you provide accurate and up-to-date information when going through the application process. For instance, your digital photo will need to comply with the UK’s rules for passport photos. These requirements include:
- A clear, in-focus photograph
- No digital alterations to the photograph
- No ‘red eye’
- A plain, light background with nothing else in the frame
- A neutral facial expression with your mouth closed
We highly recommend keeping a digital or print copy of your ETA approval email for convenience and easy access during your travel. This will avoid any unnecessary delays, and leave you feeling as prepared as possible for your trip to the UK.
we’re here to ease the process
Applying for an ETA is a very straightforward process once you understand the requirements. We’re here to provide guidance and support for anyone planning their travels under the new system so that you can focus on enjoying your Celtic adventure.
Although travelling to the UK in 2025 might look a bit different from before, you can rest assured that we’ll take care of the rest. We’re all about crafting a bespoke experience that you’ll never forget, exploring the great breadth of Celtic gems throughout the nation. Choose between England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, or combine your favourite Celtic regions to experience the very best of the UK.
