Via app or website: Entry to Great Britain only with ETA

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Some still know the abbreviation ETA as Estimated Time of Arrival – from Wednesday, April 2, it is likely to be remembered by European travelers in a different context. From then on, the UK will require prior application for an electronic travel authorization (ETA) – It will be abbreviated to ETA. This can be requested via an app or on a website.

Travellers to the USA are familiar with the game: the Electronic System for Travel Authorization, or ESTA for short, has been in place there since August 2008. Australia started even earlier. As overseas, the United Kingdom also charges travelers a fee, which is likely to result in considerable additional revenue for the state coffers: This amounts to around 12 euros until April 9, and around 20 euros thereafter. Anyone wishing to enter the country without an ETA or visa will be turned back at the border. Airlines will check whether you have an ETA at check-in.

Valid for two years

The similarities to ESTA continue with the questions to be answered: there, for example, you are asked whether you are gainfully employed and whether the traveler has ever been convicted of a crime. You also have to answer truthfully whether you are a terrorist, express extremist views or have been involved in genocide.

With an approved ETA, several trips with stays of up to six months can be undertaken. The permit is valid for two years, after which a new one must be applied for. It is equally valid for tourists, business people, short-term educational stays and family visits.

App or website

Although the permit can also be obtained via the website, the British government would apparently prefer the smartphone app available for iOS and Android to be used. Anyone wishing to apply online will be clearly informed of this option several times before they reach the online application. The smartphone app also uses NFC to read the passport chip. During the application process, the applicant must take a photo of their face.

Waiting time of up to three days

The British government estimates a processing time of up to three working days for the check. In reality, feedback is often received within half an hour, according to those who have already submitted the application. The ETA is required for people of all ages, including children and babies. In some cases, the additional facial photograph is not required for them.

In terms of data protection, the responsible British ministry states that biographical and personal data will be stored for 15 years. Biometric facial data is generally stored for three years – but longer in exceptional cases.

The European Union is continuing to work on the introduction of its electronic entry system ETIAS. This is currently scheduled to go live at the end of 2026, having already been postponed several times.

(mki)