Europeans are starting to apply for permission to enter the UK

Citizens traveling with a European passport will be required to request an electronic entry permit to The United Kingdom since March 2025, as part of the British government's goal to digitalize the border and immigration system. This is reported by the EFE agency.

The document, which is called the "electronic travel authorization" (ETA), applies to Europeans who have not yet required a visa to enter the The United Kingdom.

Visitors from non-European countries who previously did not need a visa to enter The United Kingdom, for example, from Argentina, Brazil, the USA or Australia, are already required to obtain such a permit from January 8. Permission is requested electronically before starting a trip to the UK, it costs 10 pounds (12 euros) and is valid for two years. It can be used for multiple trips to the UK during this period.

According to the UK Home Office, an electronic travel permit will help strengthen the security of the immigration system and ensure the security of the United Kingdom, since it will be known in advance who is entering the country.

The Secretary of State for Migration, Seema Malhotra, said that "the application of ETA strengthens our commitment to improving security through technology and innovation." Applicants must provide biographical and biometric data, as well as answer several questions about their criminal record, so that after the traveler receives permission, it will be digitally linked to his passport.

Although most applications are approved quickly, the UK Home Office recommends submitting applications no later than three working days before the trip, in case additional information is required. The British government has stated that it is working closely with aviation, maritime and railway companies to ensure the implementation of this project.