So the new UK ETA rules for 2025 have been a hot topic lately. If you're planning to visit the United Kingdom soon, you're in the right place. In under four minutes, we'll cover all the details announced so far so that you can apply on time and avoid any mistakes. Don't forget to subscribe to our channel for the latest updates on travel regulations and tips to make your visa application process a breeze. On September 10th, the UK government announced that starting in 2025, All travelers who are currently visa-exempt will need to apply for an ETA before entering the country.
Up until now, this requirement only applied to citizens from Iran, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. But starting next year, more countries are joining the list. Here are the key dates to take into consideration.
For non-European nationals, you can apply for your ETA starting November 27, 2024, and it will be mandatory to have for trips beginning January 8, 2025. However, for European Union nationals, applications open on March 5, 2025, and the ETA will be mandatory for entry starting April 2, 2025. Now, here are the six essential things you need to know about this new travel requirement. The ETA is an electronic travel authorization. not a visa. It's much simpler, quicker, and cheaper than a traditional visa and replaces the need to apply for one.
Then, approval usually takes a few hours, but can take up to three days. We recommend applying well in advance to avoid any issues. Remember, you will be able to apply months ahead of your trip.
About validity, the UK ETA is valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. It allows days of up to six months for tourism, business, study, visiting family and friends, or receiving medical treatment. Then, even if you're just transitioning through the UK, you'll need an ETA.
And yes, this applies to children and infants as well. To apply, you'll need your passport details, a scanned copy of your passport, basic contact info, a valid photo, and payment for the application fee. You'll also answer a few questions about your criminal and immigration history. It's important to know that criminal or immigration offenses can imply an ETA rejection, and if that happens, you may need to apply for a traditional visa. Also, you need to be aware that the UK ETA can be revoked or cancelled if the conditions under which it was issued change, or if you provided false information during the application process.
Now, let's talk about some challenges with the UK government's official application process. Many travelers online mentioned that the government's app and website have some quirks, as the app tends to time out, meaning you must complete your application in one sitting, as progress cannot be saved. Also, currently, the app only works in English and allows only one application at a time, so if you're applying as a family, Each application must be completed and paid for individually. Users have also reported difficulties with scanning the passport, recognizing passport info, and processing payments.
But here's some good news. At iVisa, we've been simplifying visa processes for over 10 years, and we're here to make the UK ETA application hassle-free for you. By applying through iVisa, you'll avoid these common issues and our customer support team will be there to assist you every step of the way. If you need our support, just visit iVisaTravel.com for a smooth and error-free experience.
Finally, before we wrap up, two quick reminders about the UK ETA that we didn't mention yet. If you get a new passport, you'll need to reapply for the ETA because it's linked to the passport used during the initial application. And remember, The ETA can be cancelled if any of your circumstances change after it's been issued.
That's all for today. If this video helped, be sure to give us a thumbs up and stay tuned for more updates on the UK ETA and other travel requirements. Drop any questions in the comments and we'll be happy to help.