The UK recently announced that Gibraltar citizens will not be required to use the new electronic travel authorisation system when the UK brings it online on Wednesday, January 8.

British and Irish passport holders, plus those travelling with a British Overseas Territories passport are also exempt from the new requirement and therefore do not require an ETA.

The decision comes after the Gibraltar government defended the rights of its citizens as UK nationals.

What is the new British ETA?

The United Kingdom started to roll out an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) programme from autumn 2023. Its implementation will continue to take place in stages during the first half of 2025.

The British government states that these new measures are being introduced as part of, ‘improvements to deliver a more streamlined, digital immigration system which will be quicker and more secure for the millions of people who pass through the UK border each year.’

An ETA is a digital permission to travel – it is not a visa and does not permit entry into the UK – it authorises an individual to travel to the UK.

The introduction of ETAs is in line with the approach many other countries have taken to border security, including the US and Australia, and helps prevent the arrival of those who present a threat to the UK.

Electronic Travel Authorisations (ETAs) are being introduced worldwide for visitors to the UK who do not currently need a visa for short stays.

An ETA costs £10, permits multiple journeys, and lasts for 2 years or until the holder’s passport expires – whichever is sooner. Once granted, ETAs are digitally linked to a traveller’s passport and allow for stays of up to 6 months at a time – including both short trips and more extended stays.

Who will need an ETA to enter British territory?

From November 2023

The ETA was implemented first in November 2023 for travellers visiting from various countries in the Middle East, replacing the previous Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW) scheme.

From February 2024

In this second phase of the roll-out, the ETA was extended to nationals from Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

From January 2025

Travellers from eligible non-European countries will need to obtain an ETA before arrival. Travellers can apply online.

April 2025

From Wednesday, April 2, 2025 travellers from European countries will need an ETA to enter UK territory. Applications for European passport holders open on Wednesday, March 5, 2025.

Who doesn’t need an ETA?

As stated previously, British or Irish passport holders will not need to apply for an ETA.

Also, those who have already gained permission to live, work or study in the UK, or who have a visa to enter the UK, will not need to obtain an ETA.