[ETA for UK Travel] What Is the UK’s New Electronic Travel Authorization? Rules, Transit Cases, How to Apply & Processing Time Explained

Starting yesterday (January 8, 2025), all travelers to the UK are now required to obtain a new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). This system has characteristics that differ significantly from other countries’ immigration systems. Most notably, even simple transit (connecting flights) that does not involve passing through UK immigration requires advance ETA acquisition.

For example, even for short transit connections of about one hour at London Heathrow Airport, where passengers remain in the international transit area without entering the UK immigration area, an ETA is required without exception. Overlooking this new requirement can lead to serious consequences such as being denied boarding at the departure airport, being refused entry to the UK and forced to return to the departure country, and incurring substantial additional costs. This article provides detailed information about this important system change.

Basic ETA Information

The ETA is an electronic authorization system that permits travel to the UK. It costs £10 (approximately $12) and is valid for 2 years. During this period, multiple trips to the UK are possible, but a new application is required when the passport is renewed.

The process from application to approval typically takes within 3 business days, though it may take longer in some cases. Once approved, the ETA is electronically linked to your passport, so there’s no need to print and carry separate documents.

Eligible Travelers

Under this new system, all travelers visiting the UK for the following purposes are required to obtain an ETA:

• Tourism, business, study, and other short-term stays within 6 months
• Stays within 3 months under the Creative Worker visa exemption
• Visits for permitted paid activities
• Transit through UK airports (including cases where immigration procedures are not undergone)

The key point is that transit passengers who do not go through immigration procedures are also included. This differs significantly from traditional arrival visa systems of other countries.

However, UK visa holders, those with UK residence/work/study permits, UK or Irish citizens, and British Overseas Territory passport holders are exempt from application requirements.

Application Process

The application requires a valid passport, an accessible email address, and payment method (credit card, debit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay). Applications can be made through the official UK ETA app or online form.

During application, a facial photograph and passport photo submission are required. When using the app, these photos can be taken directly within the app. For online forms, existing photos must be uploaded.

Important Notes for Transit Passengers

What’s particularly important for transit passengers is that ETA acquisition is mandatory even when not undergoing UK immigration procedures. This requirement applies without exception, even for short connections of 45 minutes or 1 hour.

Airlines are obligated to refuse boarding to passengers who do not possess a valid ETA. Additionally, damages resulting from failure to obtain an ETA (additional airfare, hotel costs, etc.) are unlikely to be covered by standard travel insurance, so it’s strongly recommended to apply for an ETA immediately after booking flights.

Conclusion

The ETA system introduced today significantly changes UK immigration procedures. The requirement for transit passengers represents a departure from traditional immigration systems of other countries. For those planning travel to or through the UK, it’s important to fully understand this new system and ensure proper preparation.

While the application process itself is relatively simple, it’s an easily overlooked requirement, making confirmation and prompt application at the time of flight booking absolutely essential. Transit passengers especially should recognize this new requirement as a top priority in travel preparation and take appropriate measures to avoid complications.

For any unclear points, it’s advisable to check official UK government information and proceed with preparations based on the latest information. Proper compliance with this new system is key to smooth travel.

*This article was created based on official information from the Embassy of Japan in the United Kingdom and UK Visas and Immigration as of January 8, 2025. Please note that information may differ from the latest updates depending on when you read this.