We want to inform you of a new travel requirement for visa-exempt travellers planning to visit the UK. Visa-exempt nationalities are those who don’t need a visa for short stays, such as citizens of the U.S., Canada, Australia, the European Union, and many more. This new requirement will affect citizens from over 80 countries.
The UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) is already required for some nationalities, and the UK government is now expanding it to include all visa-exempt countries.
Here are two key dates to note:
- November 27, 2024*: Citizens of 49 non-European countries (and their territories) can start applying for an ETA. They can use the ETA to travel to the UK from January 8, 2025.
- March 5, 2025*: Citizens of 35 European countries (and their territories) can apply for an ETA. They can travel to the UK using the ETA starting on April 2, 2025.
You can find a complete list of affected countries on the UK Government website.
Important details:
- The ETA costs £10 (about AU$20), plus a service fee.
- You can apply through CIBT starting November 1, 2024*. Processing usually takes about three days, and you’ll be notified of the application status via email.
- The ETA is valid for two years, allowing multiple short visits (up to six months per visit). It is required for all types of travel, including air, sea, and land (like the train between the UK and France), as well as for transit passengers.
- The ETA only applies to the UK and does not grant access to Ireland or other European countries.
- An ETA is required for everyone, including infants and children, and must be linked to a specific passport. If your passport expires, you’ll need to reapply for an ETA. Airlines may refuse boarding if you don’t have an ETA.
If you have questions or need help applying, please contact your travel manager on 1300 130 464.
Safe travels!
