From January 8, 2025, the United Kingdom now demanded for American tourists (as well as tourists from 47 other countries) who do not need a standard visa to request a British electronic travel authorization, or UK ETA .
Although it is often called visa, this inscription is in fact a type of visa renunciation, so that those who go to the United Kingdom who do not need a visa must have this ended to enter into the country.
Although this registration is a new requirement, it can be completed digitally. Just make sure you do it before your trip to avoid delay.
Need help to navigate the process? Here is everything you need to know about the British new ETA.
How to apply for the United Kingdom ETA
There are two main ways to apply for the new ETA. The simplest option is to download the UK ETA application, which is available in the Apple and Google Play app. According to the British government, application by application takes approximately 10 minutes and leads to faster treatment.
However, if you cannot download the application, you can also apply online. Application and processing times can take a little more time using this method.
What you need to apply for British ETA
Before applying, make sure you have your passport and digital payment, such as a credit card, a debit card or a digital portfolio, nearby. You can apply in the name of someone else, but this person must be with you when requesting, because the application includes taking photo and, for people over 9 years old, facial scanning.
To sum up all this, here is A list of what to have with you before applying::
- Anyone you ask should be with you during the request process
- Valid passport
- Payment form: credit or debit card, Apple Pay or Google Pay
Cost of a British ETA
Yes, you will have to pay to ask ETA. Currently, the United Kingdom US costs £ 10 (about $ 13).
British ETA processing time
It is particularly important to know how long it takes for ETA to be approved, because you will want approval before entering the United Kingdom if your ETA is not finished and treated in time, you will not be authorized to leave the passport control zone after arrival.
British treatment ETA can take as little as a day or Up to three working days. In this spirit, be sure to apply before it is time to leave during your trip so that you have not delayed at the airport while waiting for the request to be approved.
How long is a British ETA valid?
Fortunately, if you plan to make several trips to the United Kingdom, an ETA is valid two years Or Until the passport used during the Expire applicationWhatever the first. ETA is valid for visits of less than 6 months.
Since ETA is digitally connected to your passport, if the passport used during the Expire application process, you will have to request a new ETA. Make sure to check these expiration dates well before your trip to avoid annoying surprises!
Who needs a British ETA?
Each person traveling in the United Kingdom for less than 6 monthsEven if it is a quick pass across the country to another destination, ETA will need. Each person traveling in the United Kingdom will need their own ETA, including infants and children. However, a person can ask ETA on behalf of another person, and children 9 and under will not have to fulfill the scanning requirement.
The British government’s website includes a list of countries from which people can apply for their ETA now, as well as another list of countries from which people can apply for ETAs from March 5, 2025.
What other documentation will I need to travel to the United Kingdom or Europe will I need?
Travelers in the United States will need its passport with ETA or a visa (if you plan to work in the country or visit more than 6 months) to go to the United Kingdom
From later in 2025, anyone from the United States (and select other countries) going to Europe will also need a EthiaAnother type of visa renunciation. You can learn more about the requirements on the official Etias website.
More information on ETA
Make sure to explore the British government’s website and the website of the United States Embassy for more information on ETA and other travel requirements, then explore our British blog articles for more Travel advice!
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