Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA): the new essential requirement to enter the United Kingdom

The United Kingdom has always been a favourite destination for many travellers. From weekend getaways to London to routes through the green landscapes of Scotland or Northern Ireland, millions of tourists visit the country every year, drawn by its culture, history, and cosmopolitan atmosphere. However, in recent years, travel conditions have changed, especially following the UK’s departure from the European Union.

What used to be a relatively simple trip now requires paying attention to new administrative requirements that can directly affect your entry into the country. Documentation, border controls, and prior authorizations have become part of the planning process. That’s why, if you’re thinking about visiting the UK soon, it’s important to understand the new rules to avoid last-minute surprises at the airport.

You were fully focused on planning your visit to Camden Town, the walks along the Cliffs of Moher, or the cultural getaway to Edinburgh. That’s why you hadn’t realized something crucial until reading this headline: a new requirement has come into effect for entering the United Kingdom.

As of April 2, 2025, all Spanish and EU citizens who are not residents in the UK — including babies and children — must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to enter the country. This also applies to those making a connection and needing to go through border control to collect luggage or transfer.

Here’s everything you need to know to make your dream trip to the UK a reality, without any surprises.

What is the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)?

The ETA is a requirement from the UK Government for those who do not need a visa but plan to visit the UK for tourism, business, or family purposes. The process is entirely online and should be completed at least three days before departure to avoid issues. Once approved, the authorisation is digitally linked to your passport (note: if you change your passport, you’ll need to apply for a new ETA). You won’t receive a physical document — you’ll get a confirmation email you should keep.

Who needs to apply for an ETA?

The regulation applies to all Spanish and EU citizens who do not reside in the UK, including tourists, business travellers, or those visiting family and friends — for stays under six months.

You’re required to obtain one even if your itinerary includes only a transit through the UK and you must go through border control (landside transit). You don’t need an ETA for airside transit, which is only possible at Heathrow (T4) and Manchester airports. If in doubt, check with your airline.

Those who already have a UK visa or a permit to live, work, or study in the country (e.g., with pre-settled or settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme or Indefinite Leave to Remain) are exempt from this requirement.

How to apply for the ETA

You can apply through the official app or the UK Government’s website. Here are the official links:

• ETA official app:  https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apply-for-an-electronic-travel-authorisation-eta
• UK Government website: https://apply-for-an-eta.homeoffice.gov.uk/apply/electronic-travel-authorisation/how-to-apply

To apply, you’ll need:

• A valid passport (no photocopies or digital versions accepted).
• Access to your email address.
• A valid payment method: Visa, Mastercard, American Express, JCB, Apple Pay, or Google Pay.

During the application process, you must:

• Upload a photo of your passport.
• Upload a photo of your face.
• You don’t need to provide specific travel details.

The ETA is valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. It allows multiple entries into the UK, as long as each stay is under six months and you use the same passport.

The authorisation costs £16. Be careful — some airlines, transport companies, or search engine results may redirect you to third-party websites that charge more.

What can you do with an ETA?

The ETA allows tourism, business activities, and family visits. However, it does not allow paid or voluntary work, except in specific cases for certain professionals (e.g., in the arts, sports, or speaking engagements). It also doesn’t allow you to apply for public funds or perform civil acts like getting married — those require a different type of visa.

If you have trouble applying for the ETA…

The process is simple, but if you have questions or issues, the UK Government offers the following support channels:

• Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) Webchat: https://ukimmigration-support-webchat.homeoffice.gov.uk/eta
• Passenger helpline: Freephone 0800 876 6921

Planning a trip means taking care of every detail, and the ETA requirement is a clear example of how unexpected changes can arise. At aparca&go, we understand that beyond enjoying the charm of the UK — whether you're strolling through historic York or discovering cultural gems in Cambridge — you need peace of mind that nothing will go wrong. That’s why one of our goals is to keep you informed about new requirements and support you every step of the way with our full-service parking.

While you explore the culture, history, and landscapes of the UK, your car will be in the best hands.

Planning a trip means taking care of every detail, and the introduction of the ETA is a clear example of how unexpected issues can arise if you don’t carefully review your destination’s requirements. A small oversight, such as not applying for this authorization in time, could prevent you from boarding your flight or even entering the country once you arrive. That’s why one of the best tips for any traveller is to research the required documentation in advance and complete all procedures with enough time to spare.

If you’re planning a getaway to London, don’t forget to include the ETA application on your to-do list—it’s just as important as packing your suitcase. That way, you can travel with peace of mind and focus on what really matters: enjoying your trip!

At aparca&go, we understand that travelling should always be an exciting experience, full of discoveries and unforgettable moments. That’s why, in addition to helping you start your journey comfortably with our airport parking service, we also want to support you with useful information so everything goes as planned.

While you focus on exploring the culture, history, and landscapes of the United Kingdom, your car will be in the best hands.

Travel with peace of mind—everything is under control with aparca&go.