A shake-up for Aussies travelling to the UK starts today. Australian travellers visiting Britain will now require a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), a new visa waiver system similar to the United States’ ESTA program.
The £10 (around AU$20) ETA is required for non-British passport holders staying up to six months, including transit passengers from 2 April 2025. The ETA permits multiple visits over two years or until the traveller’s passport expires.
“From 8 January 2025, Australians visiting the UK, who do not need a visa for short stays or who do not have any other UK immigration status will need an ETA to travel to or transit through the UK,” states the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT).
ETA applications, available through the UK government website or app, typically take three working days to approve and link electronically to passports. So Australian travellers are advised to apply well in advance of departure.
The UK’s ETA is part of a broader trend for travellers, with Europe introducing the ETIAS visa waiver in 2025, costing €7 (about AU$11.50) for three years. Both schemes highlight growing global efforts to modernise border systems and enhance security.
Hurdles ahead?
While the UK Government says the new system should improve travel experiences, some experts warn of potential impacts on transit traffic, particularly at Heathrow. These observers predict that overseas travellers might switch to other hubs to avoid extra red tape and cost – harming Heathrow and leading to a slump in customers for British Airways and Virgin Atlantic.
Only time will tell if the new process will actually impact air travel or tourism, but the UK Government is working with airlines, ferry companies and rail operators to ensure a smooth implementation.
Comparetravelinsurance.com.au Managing Director Natalie Ball said that there may be “some hiccups as the scheme takes effect”.
“Ensuring you have allowed time for your ETA application and have applied for one for all travellers in your party, including children, will ensure a smooth transition,” she stated late last year.
“Due to evolving travel requirements, you’ll need to double-check the type of visa or travel permit you need for your next trip. Be aware that certain documents and waivers may be required even when transiting.”
Ball added that travel insurance wouldn’t cover delays caused by incomplete applications.
“Travel insurance exists to cover you for unforeseen issues, for instance, if you miss your flight due to bad weather for instance, or you are ill and unable to travel,” she explained.
When it comes to business travel, Corporate Traveller says that it doesn’t foresee any speedbumps for the current growth rate but warns travel bookers to plan ahead.
Travel advisors, here’s a quick rundown to keep your clients informed:
- What? UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) required for visa-free entry.
- Who? All non-British passport holders visiting the UK (including those in transit from 2 April 2025).
- Cost? £10 (around AU$20).
- Validity? Multiple entries for stays of up to 6 months at a time over 2 years or until passport expiry (whichever is sooner).
- How to Apply? Online via UK government website or app.
- Processing Time? Up to 3 working days.
Australian travellers can find out more about the UK ETA at the official website here.
