Beginning Wednesday, January 8, 2025, all United States citizens traveling to or through the United Kingdom (including layovers) for tourism, business, or short-term study for six months or less will require an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA).

For U.S. citizens traveling to the U.K. this represents a change that will require some forethought and action before it’s time to head to the airport for a flight.

“I am afraid that people will not know about it and have issues when flying,” said AAA Western and Central New York Senior Travel Advisor Tracey Miller.

Miller has already assisted AAA members whose travel plans will be impacted by this new policy. The good news – she says it’s an easy process.

What to know:

•    This isn’t a visa – but travelers (including children) will have to pay a fee of about $12 USD. Each traveler must apply separately. 
•    Apply for an ETA ahead of your trip, no later than a few days before. Processing could take up to 72 hours. 
•    You will need your U.S. passport information when you apply for an ETA and a recent digital headshot.
•    Your ETA lasts for 2 years - or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. You can travel to the U.K. as many times as you want during that time.
•    Your ETA is linked to your current passport, so if you get a new passport, you will need to apply for a new ETA.
•    For urgent trips, you will still need to apply for an ETA before departure, but you can travel to the U.K. while waiting for a decision.

The U.K. is comprised of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

Miller recommends using this site when applying for an ETA.

More changes are on the horizon for U.S. citizens looking to travel internationally. The European Union is also expected to launch a similar requirement later this year called ETIAS which covers 30 European nations. An official start date hasn’t been announced.

Inspired to discover the sites and culture of the UK? Let AAA's travel experts help you plan your next trip!

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