New UK Travel Rules: Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for EU and Spanish Residents from April 2, 2024 (Updated 2025)
Starting April 2, 2024, people living in Spain and other European Union countries who wish to visit the United Kingdom will need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before their trip. This new requirement is part of the UK’s broader border security measures and aims to regulate entry for visa-exempt travelers.
This article provides a detailed guide on the ETA process, its costs, exceptions, and how to apply, ensuring you have all the necessary information before planning your next trip to the UK. It also includes the latest updates as of February 26, 2025.
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1. What Is the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)?
The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a digital entry permit required for individuals who do not need a visa to enter the UK. It is not a visa, but rather a pre-travel screening system similar to the ESTA in the United States or ETIAS in the European Union.
The ETA is designed to enhance border security by allowing the UK government to pre-screen travelers before they arrive in the country.
Who Needs an ETA?
The ETA requirement applies to:
•Nationals of visa-exempt countries (such as the European Union, the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand) who do not hold British or Irish citizenship.
•Residents of Spain and other EU countries traveling to the UK for short stays (up to six months) for tourism, business, study, or family visits.
Who Is Exempt from the ETA? (Updated: October 22, 2024)
Certain groups of travelers do not need to apply for an ETA. The main exemptions include:
1.British and Irish citizens – They do not need an ETA to enter the UK.
2.British nationals with an EU residence card (e.g., TIE in Spain) – If you are a British citizen residing in Spain and hold a TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero) or other EU residency documents, you are exempt from the ETA requirement.
3.Legal residents of the UK – If you have settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, you do not need an ETA.
4.Holders of a UK visa – If you already have a valid visa to enter the UK, you do not need an ETA.
5.People exempt from immigration control (Updated: February 26, 2025) – Certain individuals, such as diplomats and government officials, do not require an ETA.
6.British overseas territories passport holders (Updated: April 4, 2024) – They are not required to apply for an ETA.
7.Dual citizens with British or Irish citizenship (Updated: October 22, 2024) – They do not need an ETA.
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2. How Much Does the ETA Cost?
The ETA application fee is £10 (approximately €11.50), which must be paid online at the time of application.
Accepted Payment Methods (Updated: February 26, 2025)
You can pay using:
•Visa
•Mastercard
•American Express
•JCB
•Apple Pay
•Google Pay
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3. How to Apply for a UK ETA?
The ETA application process is entirely online and can be completed in a few minutes. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Visit the Official UK Government Website
Applications must be submitted through the UK government’s official website. Be cautious of third-party websites that may charge additional fees. (Updated: February 26, 2025) – Other websites cannot speed up the decision process, so always apply through the official site.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
You will need:
✔ A valid biometric passport (from a visa-exempt country).
✔ A recent digital photograph.
✔ An email address (for receiving updates and approval confirmation).
✔ A debit or credit card (to pay the £10 application fee).
Step 3: Fill Out the Application Form
The form requires details such as:
•Personal information (full name, date of birth, nationality).
•Passport details.
•Planned travel dates.
•Reason for visiting the UK.
Step 4: Answer Security and Eligibility Questions
The application includes questions related to criminal history, previous immigration violations, and health-related concerns. Answer honestly, as providing false information may lead to rejection.
Step 5: Submit the Application and Pay the Fee
•Pay £10 securely using an accepted payment method.
•After submitting, you will receive a confirmation email.
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4. How Long Does It Take to Get an ETA?
The processing time for an ETA is usually within 48 to 72 hours, but travelers are advised to apply at least a week in advance to avoid any last-minute delays.
•In most cases, approvals are issued within 24 hours.
•However, applications may take longer if further checks are required.
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5. Important Updates on ETA Requirements (2024-2025)
February 26, 2025
•People exempt from immigration control do not need an ETA.
•More payment methods added.
•Third-party websites cannot speed up the application process.
January 20, 2025
•Updated how dual citizens can prove their right to travel to the UK.
January 17, 2025
•ETA no longer required for passengers transiting through the UK without passing border control (‘airside’ transit).
November 27, 2024
•More nationalities can now apply for an ETA.
October 22, 2024
•Clarified that British and Irish citizens, as well as dual citizens, do not need an ETA.
September 10, 2024
•Some nationalities can apply for an ETA later.
•Jordanian nationals can no longer apply.
August 9, 2024
•Added a section on what you cannot do with an ETA.
April 4, 2024
•British overseas territories passport holders do not need an ETA.
October 25, 2023
•First official announcement of the ETA system.
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6. Conclusion: Be Prepared Before Traveling to the UK
With the new ETA requirement in effect, travelers from Spain and the EU must ensure they apply online before their trip. The process is simple and affordable at £10, but failing to obtain an ETA will prevent you from boarding your flight.
For the smoothest travel experience, follow these key steps:
✔ Apply early (at least 72 hours before departure).
✔ Use the official UK government website.
✔ Check your passport validity.
✔ Ensure your details are correct to avoid rejection.
By understanding these new rules, you can enjoy your trip to the UK hassle-free! 🚀
👉 For the most up-to-date information and to apply for an ETA, visit the official UK government website: