New UK Travel Rules: Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) from January 2025

For those that regularly fly into airports within the UK, Portugal and the rest of the EU will have no doubt witnessed the frustrating queues at passport control. New rules being introduced in 2025 aimed to alleviate this problem…

Starting on the 8th of January 2025, visitors from the United States, Canada, Australia and other non-European nations currently exempt from visa requirements for short stays in the UK will need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). This new rule introduces a streamlined process to enhance border security and simplify entry procedures.

To acquire an ETA, travellers must complete an online application form and pay a fee of £10 (approximately USD $12.75 / EURO €12.00). Most applications will be processed within hours, although some may take up to three business days. Once granted, the ETA allows multiple entries into the UK for stays of up to six months. It remains valid for two years or until the passport linked to it expires, whichever comes first.

This requirement will also extend to European Union nationals starting on the 2nd of April 2025. However, UK and Irish citizens, along with those holding valid UK visas, will remain exempt from the new rules.

Why the ETA?

The UK Home Office aims to modernise and secure its border processes by expanding the ETA scheme. Initially applicable to citizens of seven Middle Eastern nations, the program is now being rolled out globally to ensure all travellers meet entry requirements before departing for the UK.

Gate agents will verify ETA status through a digital link to the applicant’s passport during check-in, significantly reducing delays and confusion at UK border crossings. Additionally, the biometric, biographic and contact information provided during the application process will enhance security by better monitoring traveller movements.

Portugal and Digital Entry Systems

The UK is not alone in adopting digital entry protocols. From spring 2025, Portugal and the rest of the European Union will require a new travel authorisation system called the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS). Like the UK’s ETA, ETIAS will apply to visa-exempt foreigners from 60 countries, including the UK, US, Canada and Australia.

To apply for ETIAS, travellers must complete an online form, pay a fee (€7, or approximately USD $7.40) and wait up to 96 hours for approval. This system will allow short-term travellers to enter 30 EU nations.

In addition to ETIAS, the EU plans to implement the Entry/Exit System (EES) in 2025. This system, delayed from its original November 2024 rollout, will use biometric data, such as facial recognition and fingerprints, instead of traditional passports to monitor non-EU nationals entering the EU. Unlike ETIAS, EES registration occurs automatically upon arrival and does not require a prior application.

Those considering longer stays or investing in property in Portugal may want to explore Portuguese visa options for homebuyers to determine the best route for residency.

A Safer, More Efficient Future

Digital entry systems like ETA, ETIAS and EES are becoming the global norm, enhancing security, combating identity fraud and addressing issues such as overstaying. These initiatives also aim to modernise border crossings and reduce the long immigration queues we’ve recently witnessed as travel demand surges post-pandemic.

As the UK and EU join other countries like the US, Canada and Australia in adopting these measures, travellers should prepare for a more digital and efficient border experience worldwide.

These modernised travel systems will make visiting Portugal easier, from Tavira in the East Algarve to the well-known attractions of the Central Algarve.

FAQs

What is the UK ETA and who needs it?
The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a digital entry requirement for visitors from visa-exempt countries, including the US, Canada and Australia, traveling to the UK for short stays starting January 8, 2025.

How does ETIAS differ from ETA?
ETIAS is a similar system to ETA but applies to entry into the European Union. It launches in spring 2025 and is required for short-term travel to countries like Portugal.

Will these new travel rules affect visits to Portugal for property viewings or holidays?
Yes, if you’re traveling to Portugal or the EU from a visa-exempt country, you’ll need an approved ETIAS from spring 2025. The process is simple: apply online, pay a small fee (€7) and wait for approval, which typically takes up to 96 hours.