What is the ETA? Non-EU travellers now have to apply online for €11 permit to enter the UK

The UK has just launched its new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) permit for non-EU travellers.

The new system means tourists are required to gain permission to enter the country, as part of plans to fully digitise its borders.

The permit is required for travellers from countries like the US, Canada and Australia starting 8 January 2025.

The scheme has been in place for nationals of Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates since last November.

Europeans will also need an ETA from later this year. Read on for the cost, validity and how to get it.

The ETA replaces the single-use Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW) scheme, offering a lower cost option with multi-entry validity.

The ETA is required for all nationalities, except European citizens. You can find the full list of countries here.

Europeans, meanwhile, will be required to have an ETA for travel from 2 April 2025, with applications opening on 5 March.

Most visitors will be able to apply using a mobile app and can expect a decision within three days. You will get an email with the decision.

Everyone travelling needs to apply including babies and children, but you can apply for other people. Download the ETA app from the UK government website.

The government says the app is the quickest and easiest way to apply for an ETA but if you cannot download it for some reason, you can also apply online here.

To complete the application, make sure you have on hand the passport you'll be travelling on, an email address and a credit card, debit card, Apple Pay or Google Pay. You will have to answer a set of suitability questions. You don't need to enter your travel details.

You can delete the app when you’ve finished applying. Your ETA will be