UK Visa Free Travel?

Starting in 2025, You’ll Need to Apply and Pay First!

Major Changes to UK Entry Rules Will Affect Visa Free Travelers Worldwide!

The UK government has announced that starting in 2025, it will fully implement the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system. This new requirement applies to travelers from visa exempt countries such as the United States, Canada, EU member states, and Taiwan. Anyone planning to enter the UK must apply for an ETA in advance.

Although Taiwanese citizens currently enjoy visa free entry, from 2025 they will still be required to complete an ETA application before traveling. Even EU citizens must follow this rule, reflecting the UK’s move to further strengthen its border control measures.

ETA Application Requirements and Process

According to the UK government announcement, travelers must pay £10 (approximately €12) to apply for an ETA, which is valid for two years and allows multiple entries. Each stay can last up to six months. However, since the ETA is digitally linked to the traveler’s passport, if the passport expires within those two years, the ETA will expire accordingly.

The ETA application process is relatively simple and can be completed online or via the official app. Applicants must provide personal information, travel plans, and pay the relevant fee. Most applications are approved within minutes, but the government recommends applying at least three days before departure to avoid any delays. Additionally, all travelers of any age, including infants and children, must have their own ETA, which can be applied for by a parent or guardian.

Not all travelers need to apply for an ETA. The following categories are exempt:

  • UK and Irish citizens

  • Travelers holding UK settled status (such as indefinite leave to remain or residence permits)

  • Individuals entering the UK with a valid visa or legal entry clearance (such as work or student visas)

Impact and Purpose of the New Policy

The UK government states that the ETA system is designed to strengthen border security by enabling more comprehensive screening of visa exempt travelers. This measure is seen as a further enhancement of border control following Brexit, aiming to prevent illegal immigration and ensure that only eligible travelers are allowed to enter the UK.

At the same time, the European Union plans to implement the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) in 2025. This system requires travelers from about 60 visa exempt countries to pay a €7 fee and obtain authorization before entering the Schengen Area. ETIAS authorization is valid for three years or until the passport expires whichever comes first and allows multiple entries. This means that in the near future, UK citizens will also need to obtain ETIAS authorization before traveling to EU countries.

ETA vs. ETIAS

Although both the UK’s ETA and the EU’s ETIAS are electronic travel authorization systems, there are some key differences between them.

Comparison Item UK ETA EU ETIAS
Applicable Countries United States, Canada, the European Union, Taiwan, and others Approximately 60 visa-exempt countries allowed to enter the Schengen Area (including UK citizens)
Fee £10 (approximately €12) €7
Authorization Validity Period Valid for 2 years or until passport expiry, allowing multiple entries Valid for 3 years or until passport expiry, allowing multiple entries

Duration of Stay Allowed

 Up to 6 months per visit According to Schengen rules, a maximum stay of 90 days within any 180-day period is allowed.

These regulatory changes reflect the differing border control approaches of the UK and the EU. They also mean that international travelers need to pay closer attention to each country’s entry policies to ensure smooth travel.

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