Travelling to the United Kingdom? If you are a US citizen, then you need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before you go. Applications for ETAs are already open for Americans, and will open to EU citizens on March 5, 2025.

Key considerations for Americans include the following:

• The ETA is for visitors who do not require a visa for short stays (up to six months)
• Cost is 10 pounds per person
• The ETA is good for up to two years or whenever your passport expires (whichever comes first)
• Visitors can travel to the UK as often as they like with an ETA – no need to get a new one each time
• Every member of the family needs one
• You still must travel with your passport

How to Apply for an ETA

The simplest way to apply is to download the ETA app for your mobile device. Before you do, though, make sure you have the following items ready:

• Your tourist (the real one, not a photocopy or digital version)
• Ability to access your email
• A payment method – credit card, debit card, Apple Pay or Google Pay
• A good photo of the face of the person who is applying

For more information, visit https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apply-for-an-electronic-travel-authorisation-eta

Featured image by Ivan Marc / shutterstock.com