Dozens of people have been told that a potentially crucial travel document will get more expensive from April 9. If you do not get one of these when travelling to the UK, you could be turned away at the airport.
Travel journalist and broadcaster Simon Calder took to X to say: "Friends coming to the UK who do not have the good fortune to be Irish or British citizens? They need an online ETA.
"The permit lasts two years (or until the passport expires if that is earlier). If they apply today it's £10, tomorrow the fee rises to £16."
An ETA, otherwise known as an electronic travel authorisation, allows you to travel to the UK and visit for up to six months. Whether you can apply depends on your nationality, as shown on your passport.
Specific nationalities are eligible to apply for one of these passes. There is a full list is available on the Foreign Office's website.
If you are a dual citizen with British or Irish citizenship, you do not need an ETA. You can prove your permission to travel using a valid British or Irish passport. Alternatively, you can show another valid passport containing a certificate of entitlement
With a valid ETA, you can:
If you are coming to the UK for another reason, check if you need a visa instead.
Everyone travelling needs to get an ETA, including babies and children. The fastest way to apply is using the UK ETA app.
The apps are free to download from the App Store (Apple) or Google Play (Android). If you are applying via the app, there are certain documents and details you will need, such as:
You will need to upload or take photos of the passport as well as the face of the person applying. You do not need to enter your travel details. If you cannot use the app, there is an alternative way to apply online here.
You will usually get a decision within three working days, but most people get a much quicker decision. The Foreign Office will send an email confirmation once you have got an ETA linked to the passport you applied with.
Your ETA lasts for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes sooner. Once valid, you can travel to the UK as many times as you want while you have an ETA.
