Think what you want about the European Union, but the fact is that it has succeeded in many things that has made traveling in Europe much easier than it used to be. Most countries have the common currency Euro, monstrous roaming fees of mobile networks are not allowed anymore, and when an exceptional event is not threatening the region, moving around from country to country doesn’t require extra paperwork. A few years ago, however, one of the most visited countries in the world, the UK, said goodbye to the EU, and now, also European travelers need an extra authorization for entering the kingdom. How to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) that the UK requires?

Residents of many other countries have already needed a valid ETA to visit the UK, but for Europeans, the new document is mandatory from April 2, 2025.

Here are brief instructions on what you have to do to apply:

• Find your passport, and take a photo of the page that specifies your details.
• You also have to take a photo of your face, and when you fill in the application form you will upload the photo to the service.
• Have a payment card ready for paying the required fee.
• Ensure you have access to an email that you can trust to manage your personal data.
• Start the application process online here. An app is also available that you can find by searching UK ETA at your phone’s app store (here are the instructions for using the app if you need help with it).

If you already have a visa or work permit to the UK, you don’t need the ETA document. All the details are available at this page.

The ETA is valid for six months, and allows you to visit the UK as any times you want. If you renew your passport during this time, however, you will need to renew your ETA as well. Working is not allowed, but an additional permission is required for it.

The price of the ETA is GBP 10, but Euronews reports that the government is planning to charge for it more soon.