Your guide to understanding the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)

Is your business expanding internationally? Do you have overseas offices or regularly work with suppliers and clients outside of the UK? If so, understanding the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system is crucial for seamless travel planning. 

Designed to streamline entry and enhance border security, the ETA is an important requirement for many international business travellers and visitors. In this guide, we will explain everything you need to know about the ETA, including who needs it, why it’s been introduced, and how to apply.  

What is an ETA? 

An Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a digital permission that allows eligible travellers to visit the UK for short stays of up to six months. It is not a visa; rather, it authorises a person to travel but does not grant entry upon arrival. Border officials still make the final decision on admission based on the UK’s immigration rules. 

The ETA system applies to visitors who don’t currently require a visa to enter the UK and don’t hold an existing immigration status. 

Who needs an ETA? 

Eligible non-Europeans need an ETA to travel to the UK – applications are already open for these travellers. 

Eligible Europeans can apply from 5th March 2025 and will need an ETA to travel from 2nd April 2025. 

From 5th March, travellers from the following countries can apply for an ETA: 

• Andorra 
• Austria 
• Belgium
• Bulgaria
• Croatia
• Cyprus
• Czechia
• Denmark
• Estonia
• Finland
• France
• Germany
• Greece
• Hungary
• Iceland
• Italy
• Latvia
• Liechtenstein
• Lithuania
• Luxembourg
• Malta
• Monaco
• Netherlands
• Norway
• Poland
• Portugal
• Romania
• San Marino
• Slovakia
• Slovenia
• Spain
• Sweden
• Switzerland
• Vatican City 

Why has the ETA been introduced? 

The ETA system is part of a wider effort by the UK government to modernise immigration processes and enforce border security. It aligns with similar systems already in place in countries like the US and Australia. The goal is to improve efficiency while preventing individuals who present a security threat from travelling to the UK. 

How much does an ETA cost? 

An ETA costs £10, and people can apply using the UK ETA app.   

Taking care of every detail 

Did you know, when you work with Travel Counsellors for Business, we’ll go the extra mile to ensure all travellers have the necessary documents that they need to travel – giving you one less thing to worry about. Get in touch to find out how we can put care and the personal touch at the heart of your business travel programme.