UK Electronic Travel Authorization
In 2002, I stayed at Lancaster University for about 6 months, as part of my studies. That was the time where I would still print out the navigation instructions to paper and consult a printed route map.
In 2002, I stayed at Lancaster University for about 6 months, as part of my studies. That was the time where I would still print out the navigation instructions to paper and consult a printed route map.
I made my way by car and ferry, all the way up to Lancashire – and it was my first introduction into the EU’s freedom of movement. I would simply wave my id card, take a flat, open a bank account and get a mobile contract, just so.
Sadly, times have changed. The UK has withdrawn from the EU, in an ongoing drama that has benefited no one. Entry for EU citizens has been only via passport, and now, on top of that, the UK has introduced an “Electronic Travel Authorization”.
What is the ETA?
Until the 9th of April, the ETA is still priced at £10. After that, the price hikes to £16.
In a nutshell, it works mostly like the American ESTA scheme: You submit your passport data, answer some questions (like, whether or not you have any criminal convictions). EU citizens need an ETA since 1st of April, 2025.
From the 9th of April, 2025, an Esta will set you back £16 per person.
Can I use the ETA multiple times?
Yes. The authorization is valid for 2 years, or until your passport expires – whatever comes first. You can travel as often as you want, as long as it is for private visits, tourism, business trips, short-time studies, short term paid engagements or creative work - as long as you follow the restrictions for such visits.
Does it guarantee entry?
It does not. You are required to obtain an ETA, but the border guard still has the auhtority to refuse entry, as before.
How do I get an ETA?
You should use the Home Office’s app ( for iOS or Android), or the official web site. Avoid third-party sites, as they may charge extra on top of the official fee. Note that the official page may not come up first on an internet search.
The process itself is well explained; you need to scan your passport, take a picture of your face, answer the questions, and pay. The app even offers mobile payment methods.
How do I use it?
The ETA is tied to your passport. You simply use the passport that you applied with to enter the UK - though you do receive a reference number, it shouldn’t be needed at the border.
While the the confirmation or reference number isn’t needed to cross the border, your airline may still want to see it during check-in. So it’s better to have all the documentation available during travel.
However, if you get a new passport for any reason (e.g. you lost the old one), you need to reapply.
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