If you don’t need a visa to visit the UK, you’ll soon need an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA).

It’s a new requirement for people who can enter the UK without a visa. This new authorisation, linked to your passport, will give you permission to travel to the UK and will cost GBP10 per applicant.

It is possible to apply on behalf of others, but each traveller must have an ETA, including children and infants.

Applications can be made on the ETA app or via the UK government website.

You’ll need an ETA in these circumstances:

• Visit to the UK for up to 6 months for tourism, visiting family and friends, for business or to study.
• Visit to the UK for up to 3 months on the Creative Worker visa concession,
• Transit through the UK (even if you’re not going through the UK border control).

Who will need an ETA

The UK government will adopt a phased approach to the introduction of ETA. From 15 November 2023, you’ll need an ETA if you’re travelling to the UK and you’re a national of Qatar. You’ll be able to apply from 25 October.

From 22 February 2024, you’ll need an ETA if you’re travelling to the UK and you’re a national of:

• Bahrain
• Jordan
• Kuwait
• Oman
• Saudi Arabia
• United Arab Emirates

According the UK government website, more nationalities will be added to the scheme later.

Who will not need an ETA

You will not need an ETA if you have either:

• a British or Irish passport
• permission to live, work or study in the UK
• a visa to enter the UK

If you’re legally resident in Ireland, and you do not need a visa to visit the UK, you will not need an ETA if you’re entering the UK from either:

• Ireland
• Guernsey
• Jersey
• Isle of Man

For more information visit the UK government website.