Starting from 2 April 2025, citizens of the European Union will have to apply for an electronic authorization to travel to the UK. This new measure, called Age (Electronic Travel Authorization), represents a further step towards strengthening border controls after Brexit, following the model already existing for the United States with ESTA.
The ETA will be mandatory not only for tourists, but also for those traveling through the UK in transit, including airport stops. Only Irish citizens and Europeans resident in the United Kingdom will be exempt from the obligation.
The cost of the ETA will be approximately 12 euros (10 pounds), and the question will have to be submitted online or via a dedicated applicationavailable from March 5, 2025. Applicants will need to provide passport information, a photo and answer security questions. The procedure is similar to that for the American Esta, with a wait of about three days to receive a response. If the request is rejected, , and the traveler will need to apply for a visa.
There are concerns in the tourism sector
The authorization it will be valid for two years and will allow multiple entrances in the UK for stays of up to six months, but will not allow you to work. However, it will be necessary for anyone who wants to visit the country for tourism, business or short periods of study. The Home Office has made it clear that ETA will be digitally linked to the passportsimplifying pre-travel security checks. If you change your passport, you will need to request a new authorization.
This news, a consequence of Brexit, has already caused a stir concerns in the tourism sectoras it may discourage European visitors. Tour operators fear a decline in the flow of touristsespecially in Northern Ireland, where many visitors also travel to the neighboring Republic of Ireland. Additionally, from 2025, Britons will also need to apply for similar authorization to travel to the European Union.
The British government, however, remains confident, stressing that the introduction of ETA aims to improve security and modernize the immigration system of the country. With billions of pounds expected to contribute from tourism, London aims to maintain its attractiveness to overseas visitors despite new restrictions.
