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UK Electronic Travel Authorisation implementation

Updated 1 time since CLSTR started tracking revisions of this situation.

What changed

2026-10-23 00:07 UTC → 2026-10-27 02:23 UTC · added ~~removed~~

The United Kingdom has implemented the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, a digital requirement for many international visitors who previously traveled without a visa. The official fee is £20, and the authorization is generally valid for two years or until the linked passport expires, permitting multiple visits with stays of up to six months per visit. Authorities and consumer protection agencies, such as the Verbraucherzentrale Brandenburg, have issued warnings regarding fraudulent third-party providers. These unofficial websites often mimic official government portals and appear as top search engine results to charge inflated prices. In one instance, a traveler reportedly paid approximately 310 euros for three UK ETAs, despite the official cost being roughly 24 euros per person. Experts advise travelers to apply at least three working days before departure exclusively through official UK government websites or the ‘UK ETA’ app. Using private agencies does not expedite processing times. If victims of these scams occur, they are advised to request refunds, secure documentation, and contact their banks to explore potential chargebacks. The implementation has expanded to include American passport holders traveling for short-term tourism or business. This phased rollout is intended to modernize immigration screening and conduct security checks before travelers board transportation. Additionally, travelers transiting through UK airports may require an ETA depending on whether they pass through border control. Authorities have specifically cautioned South Korean citizens to remain vigilant against private agencies charging excessive fees.

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