New UK Entry Requirement: Electronic Travel Authorization
(ETA) for U.S. Citizen Travelers Starting January 8

By, Sofia Hassander, Global Immigration Counsel

Beginning January 8, 2025, all U.S. citizens planning to visit the United Kingdom for tourism, business, or short-term study will be required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). This new requirement applies to travelers of all ages, including those transiting through UK airports.

Key Details of the ETA Requirement:

Application Process

Required Documents
  • Valid passport intended for travel.
  • Recent photograph of the applicant.
Application Methods
  • Via the UK ETA mobile app, available on the App Store and Google Play. To download, search for “UK ETA” in your app store.
Fee
  • £10 (approximately $13), payable via credit/debit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay.
Processing Time
  • Typically, within 72 hours; however, travelers are advised to apply well in advance of their planned departure.
Validity and Duration
  • The ETA is valid for two years or until the associated passport expires, whichever comes first.
  • It permits multiple entries, with each stay not exceeding six months.
Important Considerations
  • An approved ETA does not guarantee entry into the UK; travelers must still undergo standard border checks upon arrival.
  • If an ETA application is denied, individuals will need to apply for a standard visa to enter the UK.
  • Travelers obtaining a new passport must reapply for a new ETA, as it is electronically linked to the passport used during the application.

Implications for Business Travelers:

U.S. companies with employees traveling to the UK for business purposes should ensure that their personnel are aware of and comply with the new ETA requirements to avoid travel disruptions. The system is being implemented in stages based on citizenship, with U.S. citizens required to use the system staring on January 8, 2025. It is advisable to incorporate ETA application procedures into corporate travel planning and to monitor the status of applications to ensure timely approvals.

Upcoming Changes for Travel to Mainland Europe:

In addition to the UK’s ETA, the European Union is set to introduce the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) in the spring of 2025. Similar to the UK’s ETA, ETIAS will require travelers from visa-exempt countries, including the United States, to obtain authorization before visiting EU member states.

Recommendations:

  • Advance Planning: Travelers should apply for the ETA well ahead of their intended travel dates to accommodate processing times and any unforeseen delays.
  • Stay Informed: Keep abreast of any updates or changes to travel authorization requirements by consulting official government sources or trusted legal advisors.
  • Legal Assistance: For personalized guidance on international travel compliance, consider consulting with immigration law professionals.

By proactively addressing these new travel authorization requirements, both individual travelers and organizations can ensure seamless travel experiences to the United Kingdom and Europe in 2025 and beyond.