New ETA for European citizens: what to know before traveling to the UK in 2025
Attention, travelers with a European passport! As of April 2, 2025, you will also need the ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) to enter the UK. Since March 5, 2025, citizens of the European Union can now request this mandatory digital authorization. Whether you're planning to study, work, or go sightseeing in the UK, Be Easy has prepared this comprehensive guide to help you understand everything about the new requirement and how to properly prepare for your next trip.
Changes for European citizens in 2025
After Brexit, the rules for entering the United Kingdom have undergone several changes. Since January 2025, non-European citizens already need an ETA to travel to the country. Now, starting April 2, 2025, all citizens of the European Union will also be subject to this new requirement.
This change represents a significant transformation for those who are used to traveling freely between EU countries and the United Kingdom. For Brazilians with dual European citizenship who were used to using their European passport to enter the United Kingdom without restrictions, it will now be necessary to plan in advance and apply for the ETA before the trip.
What is ETA and how does it affect European citizens
The Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is a digital travel authorization that is now mandatory for European citizens who wish to visit the United Kingdom starting in April 2025. This new system seeks to digitize and modernize British border control after the country leaves the European Union.
- It's not a visa: The ETA is not a substitute for a visa, it's just an authorization to travel to the United Kingdom.
- Mandatory: All European citizens will need to apply for the ETA, regardless of the reason for the trip.
- Digital process: The request is made completely online, with no need to visit consulates or embassies.
- Extended validity: Once approved, the ETA allows multiple entries into the country during its validity period.
- Affordable cost: Compared to traditional visas, ETA has a more affordable cost.
For Brazilians who have a European passport and wish to take advantage of the opportunity to Learning a language abroad in the United Kingdom, this new requirement represents just an additional step in trip planning.
ETA application process for Europeans
The ETA application for European citizens began on March 5, 2025, allowing everyone to be prepared before the official implementation date in April. The process is completely digital and relatively simple.
For Europeans who are used to traveling to the UK with their passport alone, it's important to understand that this new process requires prior planning. Unlike the freedom of movement that existed before Brexit, it is now necessary to apply for the ETA in advance and receive approval before boarding for the United Kingdom.
Step by step to get your British ETA
If you have a European passport and plan to travel to the UK after April 2, 2025, follow these steps to ensure that your ETA is approved without problems:
- Access the official website: Visit the official British government portal to apply for the ETA, avoiding unofficial sites that may charge extra fees.
- Prepare your documents: Have your valid European passport and complete personal information ready.
- Complete the online form: Complete all fields with accurate information, including contact details and travel history.
- Attach a digital photo: Provide a recent photo that meets the required specifications.
- Make the payment: Pay the ETA fee using an international credit or debit card.
Remember that, even if you are a European citizen, you must apply for the ETA at least 3 days before your trip. Be Easy recommends that our customers start the process two weeks in advance to avoid unforeseen events.
Deadlines and validity for European passport holders
Understanding the deadlines and validity of the ETA is critical to properly planning your UK experience, especially for European citizens who are not used to this type of restriction. Keep an eye out for this essential information:
- Implementation date: Mandatory for Europeans as of April 2, 2025.
- Early Request Period: Available for request since March 5, 2025.
- Processing time: Generally approved within 72 hours.
- Duration of validity: Valid for up to 2 years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.
- Residence permit: Each entry allows a stay of up to 6 months in the United Kingdom.
- Multiple entries: Possibility to enter and leave the UK multiple times during the validity period.
For Europeans who frequently visit the United Kingdom, whether for tourism, business or to visit family members, the ETA represents an important change, but once obtained, it allows multiple entries during its validity.
Exceptions for Irish citizens
Although European Union citizens now need ETA, there is one important exception: Irish citizens. Due to the Common Travel Area Agreement between Ireland and the United Kingdom, Irish people will continue to enjoy the right to enter, live and work in the United Kingdom without the need for ETA or any other type of prior authorization.
This exception is particularly relevant for Brazilians with Irish citizenship, who will be able to continue traveling to the United Kingdom without additional restrictions. If you have an Irish passport, you don't have to worry about these new entry rules.
Impact on study and exchange trips
For European or Brazilian students with a European passport who plan to do an exchange in the United Kingdom, ETA represents a new step in trip planning. However, it's important to understand that ETA alone may not be sufficient for long-term educational programs.
If you plan to study in the UK for a short period, the ETA may be sufficient. However, it's essential to check the specific requirements of your educational program and consult with exchange specialists to ensure that you have adequate documentation.
What happens if a European travels without an ETA after April 2025
After April 2, 2025, European citizens who attempt to enter the United Kingdom without an ETA will face the same consequences as other foreigners: denial of boarding by the airline or refusal of entry by British immigration.
This new reality represents a significant change for Europeans who are used to traveling freely to the United Kingdom. Airlines are responsible for verifying that passengers have the necessary documentation before boarding, and may deny boarding to those who do not present a valid ETA. This can result in financial losses with tickets, lodging, and programs that have already been paid for.
ETA benefits for frequent travelers
Although it represents a new requirement, the ETA system offers some advantages for those who travel frequently to the United Kingdom using a European passport:
- Early Approval: Once approved, you already know that you are authorized to travel, avoiding surprises at the airport.
- Digital process: The entire process is carried out online, without the need to submit physical documents or attend consulates in person.
- Multiple entries: A single ETA allows multiple trips during its validity period, ideal for those who visit the UK regularly.
- Extended validity: Valid for up to 2 years, the ETA eliminates the need to request new authorizations with each trip.
- Cost-benefit: Compared to traditional visas, ETA has a more affordable cost and a more simplified process.
For Europeans planning to visit the UK multiple times for tourism, business or short visits, ETA represents a practical solution after the end of post-Brexit freedom of movement.
Be Easy
A Be Easy is prepared to assist Brazilians with European citizenship who wish to study or work in the United Kingdom, offering complete guidance on the new ETA system and other travel requirements. Our expert team keeps up with all changes to British immigration rules and ensures that our clients are always well informed and prepared. If you are planning an international experience in the United Kingdom in 2025, count on our advice to navigate these new requirements and make your dream a reality. Contact us today for a personalized consultation!
