The United Kingdom has a new entry requirement for nationals of countries in the European Union (except for Ireland), Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino and Vatican City. Nationals of these countries are now required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before traveling to the UK.
The ETA is an entry permit issued by the British government to nationals of countries that are exempt from obtaining a UK visa. It’s mandatory to have this authorization before boarding your flight to the UK.
Your next steps
- Visit the UK government’s website to see the detailed conditions and check if they apply to you.
- If you have any other travelers on your booking, make sure each of them have their own entry permit to the UK if needed.
If you have a transfer in the UK
- Keep in mind that even if you don’t plan to leave the airport, you may still need an ETA. This is especially true if your itinerary includes a self-transfer at an airport in the UK, as you may need to go through passport control to re-check baggage or switch terminals.