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New Entry Requirements For US Citizens Traveling Or Transiting Through United Kingdom Airports
As of January 8, 2025, U.S. citizens traveling to the United Kingdom for short visits, tourism, or business, including those just passing through UK airports, will need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) if they do not have a UK visa or legal residency in the UK or the Republic of Ireland. This requirement applies to all parts of the UK, including Northern Ireland and British Overseas Territories. The ETA is similar to the U.S. ESTA system and acts as a pre-clearance for travel. This change is part of the UK’s move towards a digital border system.
An Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) costs £10 ($12.75), is required for travelers of all ages, may take up to three working days to process and is valid for two years or the remaining period of validity on a passport, whichever is shorter. Once you apply for an ETA, it is non-refundable. One does not need an ETA if they already have a visa, an exempt vignette, or have a British or Irish passport. Other nationalities that ordinarily require a visa to visit the UK will continue to do so and should not obtain an ETA. To apply for a visa you need; the passport you will travel with – not a photocopy or digital passport, access to your emails and a credit card, debit card, Apple Pay or Google Pay.
You will need to upload or take photos of the passport and the face of the person applying. You do not need to enter your travel details. You can apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization here.
