UK ETA Expansion for 83 More Countries

The UK Government is set to significantly expand its Electronic Travel Authorization program to include 83 more countries.

It will digitize border crossing controls and simplify entry for visa-exempt visitors.

What is the UK ETA?

The UK ETA is a digital travel permit linked to an individual's passport, required for foreign visitors who can travel visa-free. It applies to tourism journeys, business trips, and short-term study purposes.

The approved UK ETA remains valid for 2 years or until the traveler's passport expires, whichever comes first. To obtain the permit, you must pay £10. It allows multiple short-term trips to the United Kingdom for up to six months each time. 

Inspired by similar systems (like the US ESTA), the UK ETA speeds up pre-arrival security checks.

By verifying travelers' details in advance, the system reduces the risk of illegal migration and strengthens the borders' integrity.

Timeline and Eligible Countries

The UK ETA program began with Gulf Cooperation Council countries and is expanding globally.

The system changes border security handling, improving the visitors' experience. It also aims to boost the economy of the United Kingdom.

The Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) requirements are being extended to 83 additional countries in two phases:

Phase 1: Non-European Countries

Starting January 2025, nationals from 49 non-European countries will need an ETA to visit the UK.

• Americas: Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Grenada, Guatemala, Guyana, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, United States, and Uruguay.
• Asia: Brunei, Hong Kong, Japan, Malaysia, Maldives, Macau, Singapore, South Korea, and Taiwan.
• Oceania: Australia, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Mauritius, Micronesia, Nauru, New Zealand, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, and Tuvalu.
• Others: Botswana, Israel, and Seychelles.

Phase 2: European Countries

From April 2025, nationals from 34 European countries will also need an ETA. 

• Europe: Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and Vatican City.

Preparing for Travel

With the ETA system changing so quickly, it's important to familiarize yourself with the new entry requirements before travel. Apply for the permit early enough to get it on time.

Checking official UK Government websites is recommended to confirm eligibility and ensure compliance. This new policy is expected to streamline entry for millions while safeguarding UK borders against security threats.