Planning a trip to the United Kingdom? Recent changes to UK entry requirements mean many international travellers now need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before their journey. As a leading private air charter provider, Fliteline is committed to keeping our clients informed about important travel regulations that may affect their journeys.
What is the UK ETA?
The UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a new digital permission to travel introduced by the UK government as part of broader border security measures. Similar to the US ESTA or Canadian eTA, this system requires eligible travellers to apply for authorisation before entering the UK.
The ETA is not a visa but rather a pre-travel authorisation that confirms you meet the requirements for entry to the UK as a visitor or in transit. It forms part of the UK's plan to fully digitise its borders by 2025, allowing for more efficient and secure processing of travellers.
Who needs a UK ETA?
The UK ETA requirement applies to visitors who:
- —Do not need a visa to enter the UK (visa-exempt nationals)
- —Do not hold British or Irish citizenship
- —Do not already have permission to live, work or study in the UK
The implementation follows a phased approach:
- —Non-EU nationals from visa-exempt countries: Required since 8th January 2025
- —EU citizens: Applications now open
It's worth noting that nationals from countries that already require a visa to enter the UK will continue to apply for the appropriate visa rather than an ETA.
Who is exempt from the UK ETA requirement?
You do not need to apply for a UK ETA if you:
- —Hold a valid British or Irish passport
- —Have permission to live, work or study in the UK
- —Are a diplomat accredited to the UK
- —Are a visa national (you'll need to apply for the appropriate visa instead)
How to apply for a UK ETA
The application process is straightforward and entirely digital:
- 01Complete an online application through the official UK government website or app
- 02Provide personal information including passport details
- 03Answer security questions
- 04Pay the £20 fee
- 05Submit biometric information (facial photograph)
Most applications are processed within 3 working days, though some may take longer. We recommend applying at least a week before your planned travel date to allow for any potential delays.
Key information about the UK ETA
- —Validity period: Once approved, your ETA is valid for two years or until your passport expires (whichever comes first). During this period, you can make multiple visits to the UK.
- —Length of stay: The ETA allows for visits of up to 6 months per entry for tourism, business meetings, or visiting family and friends.
- —Entry methods: Your ETA is valid for entry by air, land, or sea.
- —Cost: The application fee is £20 per person (gov.uk, checked November 2026). It was £10 when this article was first published in April 2025.
- —Family travel: Each family member, regardless of age, requires their own individual ETA. There are no exemptions for children.
- —Multiple passports: If you hold multiple passports, you must travel with the passport linked to your approved ETA. If you renew your passport, you'll need to apply for a new ETA.
Tips for a smooth application process
- —Apply early: While most applications are processed quickly, allow extra time for unexpected delays.
- —Double-check all information: Ensure all details match your passport exactly to avoid rejection.
- —Keep your confirmation: Save your ETA confirmation for reference during your journey.
- —Remember the validity period: Make note of when your ETA expires if you plan to make multiple trips to the UK.
How the UK ETA compares to other travel authorisation systems
The UK ETA system joins similar pre-travel authorisation requirements implemented by other countries:
- —UK ETA (United Kingdom): £20, valid for 2 years
- —ESTA (United States): about US$40, valid for 2 years
- —eTA (Canada): CAD $7, valid for 5 years
- —ETIAS (EU, planned): €20, valid for 3 years
Planning your journey with Fliteline
At Fliteline, we understand that navigating international travel requirements can be complex. Our dedicated team is committed to providing our clients with the most up-to-date information to ensure seamless travel experiences.
When booking your private charter with us, our team can provide guidance on entry requirements for your destination, including ETA applications. While obtaining the necessary travel authorisations remains the responsibility of each traveller, we're here to support you throughout your journey planning process.
Planning a trip to the UK or beyond? Contact Fliteline today to discover how our private charter services can elevate your travel experience while our expert team helps navigate the complexities of international travel.