Great Britain: Paid Visa Comes into Effect Also for EU Citizens
Starting April 2, 2025, those entering the country will be required to purchase an electronic travel authorization (ETA)
Beginning April 2, 2025, European citizens traveling to the United Kingdom will be required to obtain an electronic travel authorization (ETA), which is an electronic visa similar to the ESTA used to enter the United States, a valid document for entry and stay up to 6 months at a time during a two-year stay. For EU citizens who no longer enjoy freedom of movement in the UK after Brexit, the measure will come into effect on April 2, 2025, while for citizens of other countries it will take effect as early as January 2, 2025. The only exclusion is made for Irish citizens.
The e-visa will cost £10, requires an online form, and is designed to make it more efficient and secure for casual travelers to enter.
“ETAs are digitally linked to the traveler’s passport,” the UK Home Office said in a press release, “and ensure that more stringent security checks are in place before people begin their journey to the United Kingdom, helping to prevent abuse of our immigration system.”
