The United Kingdom (UK) has implemented a new travel rule for individuals from European countries wishing to visit.
According to the UK government, this rule introduces a mandatory entry permit called the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).
The ETA will be valid for visits of up to six months and will remain effective for two years. It is required for all travelers, including children and infants.
This new regulation will come into effect on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, and aims to enhance the UK’s border security.
UK Introduces New Entry Permit for European Nationals
Citizens from approximately 30 European countries, including all EU member states except Ireland, will need to obtain this electronic permit to enter the UK.
However, passengers who are merely transiting airside without entering the UK border are exempt from this requirement.
Currently, only Heathrow and Manchester airports are equipped to handle airside transit.
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This program does not apply to UK residents or individuals who already hold UK immigration status.
The ETA will be available for online purchase at a fee of £10 (approximately Ksh 1,670.74), but this cost will increase to £16 (around Ksh 2,673.18) starting April 9.
It is akin to the ESTA system used in the United States and will be obligatory for all European visitors.
How BREXIT Impacted Europeans Travelling to the United Kingdom
Migration Minister Seema Malhotra mentioned earlier this month that modernizing the immigration process is a significant step toward establishing a contactless UK border, as the website has begun accepting initial applications.
The application process has been available to Europeans since early March. Applicants must submit a photograph of their passport along with a picture of their face.
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The introduction of a mandatory entry permit for European nationals comes several years after Britain’s exit from the European Union (Brexit), which was finalized on January 31, 2020, following a referendum in 2016 where 52% of voters chose to leave.
Brexit affected how Europeans travel to the UK, ending the free movement of people between the UK and the EU on December 31, 2020. EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens are now required to use passports instead of ID cards for entry.
While short visits for tourism or business up to six months remain visa-free, longer stays for work or study now require visas.
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