If you are planning to travel to the UK, obtaining an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) should be at the top of your travel to-do list. While the ETA requirements have technically been in effect for more than a year, authorities have been somewhat flexible in their enforcement. As of February 25, this leniency is coming to an end. If not, you will not be able to enter the UK
On top of that, the cost of getting one is going to increase in the near future. Currently, the cost per passenger is £16 (approximately $22) at ETA, but according to British officials, this fee will rise to £20 (approximately $27) at some point. Officials did not give a specific date for the increase.
One noteworthy aspect of an ETA to consider is that once it is obtained, it is valid for two years (or until your passport expires). This means that if you’re a frequent visitor to London, you’re covered for multiple trips. So even if you don’t have any concrete plans to visit the UK in the near future, it’s worth buying now as it will cover your costs for the next two years at a lower price.
What is the ETA?
Please note that an Electronic Travel Authorization is a digital permission slip that applies to any visitor (regardless of age) who is staying in the UK for a period of up to six months and does not require a visa to travel to the UK. It is similar to the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) program that forces non-citizens to visit the United States.
From 25 February, eligible travelers will not be able to legally travel to the UK without an ETA. This means border officers can stop you from boarding a flight, ferry or train to the UK. Passengers connecting through a UK airport do not need an ETA if they have not passed UK border control before continuing their connecting journey. However, if you do go through UK passport control, you will need an estimated time of arrival.
Passengers must apply for an estimated time of arrival online in advance and upload photos. It may take up to three business days to obtain a permit. You can apply for an ETA on the UK government website. Only British and Irish citizens are exempt from the ETA requirement. If your ETA application was denied due to an error, you are eligible to reapply. However, if your application is formally refused, there is no way to appeal, meaning you will need to obtain a visa before entering the UK
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Also, please note that you can also apply through a third-party website, but you will need to pay an additional surcharge on top of the fees charged by the government.
Related: Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for an ETA
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If England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland are on your 2026 travel itinerary, be sure to request an ETA before prices increase. Although the UK government has yet to confirm when the ETA fee increase will take effect, action should be taken sooner rather than later.
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