US Travelers Visiting the UK in 2025 Will Need A Travel Authorization

Visa Required for the United Kingdom (England, Wales, Scotland, & Northern Ireland).

As an American or Canadian Citizen, it is quite unusual to need more than your passport to enter a country in Europe, but that is about to change. Soon you will need an ETA, instead of an actual visa, it is a prior electronic authorization, which will be mandatory for all tourists visiting the United Kingdom.

When Is It Mandatory?

The UK ETA will be required for all travelers visiting the country from January 8, 2025 and can now be applied for until three days before departure. It’s a quick online form.

Who is Required to Apply?

The ETA mandatory for other non-European countries (including the United States & Canada) from January 8, 2025. For citizens of European countries like Germany and France, it’ll kick off from April 2nd, 2025.

Only Irish citizens and UK citizens/residents are exempt from this.

How Much Does It Cost?

The cost of the ETA is £10 (approximately $13 USD).

How Long Does the Authorization Last?

The ETA is valid for two years. You have the possibility of multiple entries, but for each entry a maximum stay of six months.

However, it is for tourism and business trip purposes. This does not allow you to work for a UK company. This requires a different type of visa, which is more difficult to obtain.

How Long Does It Take to Get It?

You can no longer travel to the UK on spec if you do not have an ETA. The period for granting the ETA is 3 working days. In case of a rejected application, it is necessary to apply for a normal tourist visa.

Is It Also Necessary for a Stopover at the Airport?

Yes, when you have a stopover at the airport, it is also necessary to apply for an ETA , even if you do not leave the airport. This applies to all airports in the United Kingdom. London airports have already filed a complaint with the government because many travelers from countries for which the ETA is already active have given up the stopover in the United Kingdom for this reason.

How Do You Apply for an ETA?

From January 8th, American and Canadian citizens will also need to go to the correct website and follow these six steps:

1. Go to this website, this is the official UK government website where you can apply for the ETA.

2. Upload a photo of the passport you will be using to travel to the UK.

3. Perform a face scan with your phone or other mobile device, if it has a camera (except for children under 9 years old.

4. Take or upload a photo of yourself.

5. Answer some questions.

6. Pay the required £10 ETA.