Tourists coming to the UK will need to pay to enter the country from this week

The change came into effect this week

A significant change to the entry process for tourists visiting the UK came into place this Wednesday meaning most travellers will require an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to enter the UK, valid for tourism, business, or family visits.

The ETA is an electronic pre-approval system, similar to the US ESTA or Canada’s ETA.

It is a requirement for visitors from specific countries including those in Europe and the United States and is valid for short stays of up to six months.

The system has been rolled out gradually since 2023, when travellers from Qatar and UAE started being required to apply for an ETA.

This is a different travel authorisation to the ETIAS, which is required for travel in the EU.

Last year, it was also announced that UK citizens would have to start paying this visa-waiver charge in the near future, but this change will not go into place until late 2026.

The application can be completed through the official UK government website or the UK ETA app.

You’ll need a valid passport, a recent digital photograph, and a payment method to cover the fee.

The process typically takes 10-15 minutes, with most approvals issues within three business days, though you’re encouraged to apply well in advance to avoid delays or mishaps.

The ETA costs £10 currently but is set to increase to £16 on April 9.

The travel authorisation is valid for multiple entries and lasts for up to two years – or until your passport expires.

A long list of nationalities and countries will require the ETA to travel to the UK, including approximately 30 European countries as well as the US and Canada.