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

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.