The UK government is quickly changing the requirement of of their new Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) which has required travelers traveling to and through the United Kingdom register their trips and apply for pre-clearance. Now, the UK has confirmed that travelers transiting through the United Kingdom will not need the new Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), provided they remain airside and don’t pass through border control. This is valid for the only airports in the UK which are set up for airside transfers, Manchester and London.
This clarification addresses a key concern for transit passengers, especially at busy hubs like London Heathrow, where many connect to beyond the UK. Connecting the America’s to Europe and beyond. The ETA requirement is/was a huge headache for British Airways and other airlines which connect passengers beyond London.
However, the ETA remains mandatory for nearly all visitors to England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Travelers must have their ETA approved before boarding their flight to the UK or risk being denied boarding. Currently, only European Union passport holders are exempt from the ETA. Yet even that is schedule to change in March 2025.
Potential Cost Increase
Currently priced at £10, the UK Home Office is already considering increasing the ETA fee to £16! Remember, this fee just went live for most travelers on January 8. Meaning less than a couple weeks since introduction the government is looking to increase the tax collected on each passenger. The government is citing the need to reduce reliance on taxpayer funding for migration and border systems. Hence taxing incoming tourists instead.
Applying for a UK ETA
The ETA is a digital visa-waiver for citizens of many countries outside Europe. Eligible travelers can apply through the official UK Government website or UK ETA app by following these steps:
- Provide passport and contact details.
- Upload a valid digital photo.
- Answer a series of questions.
- Pay the £10 fee with a credit or debit card.
Once issued, the ETA is valid for two years or until your passport expires and allows multiple visits to the UK for stays of up to six months. Processing time can take multiple weeks. Therefore it’s best to apply early. Many of my clients at Scott & Thomas Travel have been approved in less than 2 hours. Yet, I would still recommend applying at minimum of 3 weeks before your travel date.
Bottom Line
Electronic Travel Authorization is becoming the new normal in travel. We have seen several countries adopt these despite allowing for visa free travel. Other countries that require an pretravel authorization and tax visitors include Australia, New Zealand, The United States, Canada, and now the UK. The European Union also plans a new travel authorization in 2025.
