02.04.2025
As of today, April 2, 2025, visitors holding a passport from an EU or EEA country are required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to enter the United Kingdom.
The UK ETA is similar to the ESTA, which has been required for travel to the United States for several years. It can be applied for via the official link "Apply for an electronic travel authorisation (ETA) - GOV.UK." The current fee is ten pounds, but it will increase to sixteen pounds on April 9, 2025. The application time for an ETA typically takes between three and seven days.
Exemptions from this requirement include holders of a British or Irish passport, as well as students in possession of a valid Child Student Visa or Student Visa.