The UK launched its new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) permit for all non-EU travelers on January 8, 2025.

The scheme was previously introduced for nationals of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, and now it will apply to all the other non-EU nationals who do not require a visa to enter the territory of the US, VisaGuide.World reports.

With the launch of the scheme, Australians, Americans, Canadians, and New Zealanders are just some of the 47 non-EU nationalities that now must hold an ETA to travel to the UK for short periods of time.

The affected nationalities have been able to undergo the application process since November 27, 2024.

By expanding the ETA scheme to all non-EU nationals, the British government aims to prevent the abuse of the immigration system. Moreover, the authorities also want to ensure more robust checks.

In addition to the 47 nationalities that now need an ETA for travel to the UK, nationals of the EU will also soon be affected by the scheme.

EU nationals will be eligible to apply for an ETA starting March 5, 2025, and they will have to present the document upon entry to the UK starting April 2, 2025.

This Is How UK’s ETA Works

The ETA is an entry permission that must be obtained by those who enjoy visa-free entry to the UK.

The ETA is linked to the travelers’ passports and its main aim is to enhance security by determining eligibility for traveling to the UK under the visa-free regime.

Applicants for an ETA need to pay a £10 ($13) fee. The fee applies to everyone, including babies and children.

It costs £10 to apply. Everyone traveling needs to get an ETA, including babies and children. You can apply for other people. You cannot get a refund after you apply.

The application for an ETA can be made online or through the UK ETA phone app. The application process is easy and straightforward, and it does not take much time.

Once the application is made, the decision is usually given within three working days or quicker. The confirmation of the application is sent to the applicant’s email address.

Once travelers are issued an ETA, the document remains valid for a period of two years. During this time, the holders of the ETA can travel to the UK as many times as they want.