Planning a Trip to the UK in 2025? Here’s What You Need to Know About the New Travel Permit
More than a million Australians are expected to visit the UK this year. But if you’re planning a trip to England, Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland, there’s an important new rule you need to be aware of.
Starting Wednesday, January 8, all travellers to the UK must apply for a special travel permit called the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before their journey. This permit costs £10 and is mandatory for boarding your flight.
What is the ETA?
The ETA is a digital visa-waiver introduced for citizens of most non-European countries, including Australia. This means that even though you don’t need a full visa to visit the UK, you’ll still need to secure an ETA before departure. Failing to do so could result in being denied boarding at the airport—an expensive and stressful way to start your trip.
How to Apply for Your UK ETA
The application process is straightforward and can be completed via the official UK Government ETA website or the UK ETA app.
To apply for an ETA, you’ll need to:
Provide your contact and passport details.
Upload a valid digital photo.
Answer a series of questions.
Pay the £10 fee using a credit or debit card.
Once approved, your ETA will be valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. It allows multiple visits to the UK, with stays of up to six months per trip.
When to Apply for an ETA
The UK government recommends applying well in advance of your travel
