ARTICLE
16 December 2024

Flying To London For A Meeting Or As A Tourist? You Must Complete The New On-Line ETA Visa Waiver Form

SM
Sheppard Mullin Richter & Hampton

Contributor

Sheppard Mullin is a full service Global 100 firm with over 1,000 attorneys in 16 offices located in the United States, Europe and Asia. Since 1927, companies have turned to Sheppard Mullin to handle corporate and technology matters, high stakes litigation and complex financial transactions. In the US, the firm’s clients include more than half of the Fortune 100.
Beginning January 8, 2025, visitors from the United States (as well as from other countries) traveling to anywhere in the United Kingdom...
Worldwide Immigration

Beginning January 8, 2025, visitors from the United States (as well as from other countries) traveling to anywhere in the United Kingdom will need an Electronic Travel Authorization ("ETA") prior to travel, regardless of age. Also, passengers who are merely transiting through an airport in the UK will need the ETA as well.

General Requirements

To apply, you need:

  • The actual passport you will travel with – not a photocopy or digital passport
  • Access to your emails
  • A credit card, debit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay (No refunds after you apply)

You will need to upload or take photos of:

  • Your passport
  • Your face

You do not need to enter your travel itinerary.

Duration

ETAs are valid fortwo (2) years after issuance or when the individual's passport expires – whichever is earlier. ETAs allow multiple entries and stays for no longer than 6 months.

Processing Times

Applications are usually approved within 72 hours. However it may take less or more time, so apply earlier rather than later.

Practice Pointers

  • Passport: ETAs are digitally linked to the traveler's passport. If an individual obtains a new passport, they must apply for a new ETA.
  • App: The fastest way to apply is using the UK ETA app, which you can download from the App Store or Google Play. Otherwise, you can apply using the UK Embassy website.
  • Inspection Upon Arrival: ETA does not guarantee entry to the UK. Travelers still need to either see a Border Force officer or use an ePassport gate, if eligible.
  • ETA vs. Visa: Apply for an ETA well in advance. If it is denied, you will need to apply for a formal visa. Also, ETA is only for tourists and business visitors.
  • Passport Validity: Passports should be valid for at least 6 months beyond the intended stay. However, U.S. citizens could be admitted up to the passport expiration date.
  • U.S. Global Entry: U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) considers Global Entry for faster clearance back into the U.S. a privilege, not a right. To avoid problems, make sure you declare to CBP all items purchased abroad and cash exceeding $10,000 Avoid bringing any food back into the U.S.

Next Up, Europe: ETIAS Travel to the European Union Delayed to Spring 2025

The European Union's Travel Information and Authorization System ("ETIAS") has been delayed but is expected to go into effect in the Spring of 2025. Additional information can be found here.

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.

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