UK Travel Authorization for Europeans -- you are not in Europe Anymore!

Until just a few days ago, traveling from Europe to the UK took only a few minutes: a Eurostar or plane ticket and a passport, and you were in London. However, the consequences of Brexit have slightly extended the preparation required for your trip. As of April 2, 2025, obtaining an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is mandatory.

This authorization is required for travel to the UK for leisure, permitted business activities, short-term studies, and land transit (border control during a layover for a return flight). However, students aged 18 and under traveling on a school trip are exempt.

The application process is simplified and can be completed via the UK ETA App or the UK government website. To apply, you will need:

A valid passport
A recent digital passport photo
A valid email address
A functional electronic payment method
Additionally, you must complete a form with your personal information and answer a security questionnaire (criminal record and previous travel history).

This authorization is subject to a fee of £10 (approximately €12). From April 9, 2025, the cost will increase to £16 (approximately €19). If errors are made in the submitted information, corrections can be made, but the same fee will need to be paid again.

Processing time is estimated at three working days. The authorization is valid for two years or until the passport expires (whichever comes first). It allows for multiple short stays of up to six months per visit. Since previously EU citizens were entitled to reciprocal rights to remain in the UK for up to 90 days without a visa, this reform, while imposing additional constraints on EU persons, does extend their rights of stay to six months.