Chicagoans will need more than a passport to visit the UK beginning in 2025. Under a new program, all Americans will be required to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) in order to vacation across the pond.
What is an ETA?
An ETA is a requirement granting entry to the UK (England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland) for up to six months.
When Do US citizens need an ETA by?
Americans will need an ETA to visit the UK starting January 8, 2025. Any US citizens traveling to the UK before that date will not need the authorization.
Who needs to apply for an ETA
Citizens from the following countries, including the US, will need an ETA to visit the UK.
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Argentina
- Australia
- The Bahamas
- Barbados
- Belize
- Botswana
- Brazil
- Brunei
- Canada
- Chile
- Costa Rica
- Grenada
- Guatemala
- Guyana
- Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (including British national overseas)
- Israel
- Japan
- Kiribati
- Macao Special Administrative Region
- Malaysia
- Maldives
- Marshall Islands
- Mauritius
- Mexico
- Federated States of Micronesia
- Nauru
- New Zealand
- Nicaragua
- Palau
- Panama
- Papua New Guinea
- Paraguay
- Peru
- Samoa
- Seychelles
- Singapore
- Solomon Islands
- South Korea
- St Kitts and Nevis
- St Lucia
- St Vincent and the Grenadines
- Taiwan
- Tonga
- Trinidad and Tobago
- Tuvalu
- Uruguay
How long is an ETA valid for?
ETAs are valid for up to two years.
How do I apply for an ETA?
Interested parties can apply for an ETA online.
Is there an application fee?
The application costs $10.
Do I need any documents to apply?
Applicants will need their passport, a photo of themselves, and an acceptable form of payment (credit card, debit card, Apple Pay, Google Pay).
How soon are applications approved?
Applicants will typically receive a decision on their application within 3 business days. Learn more at the UK official government site.