Heading to the UK next year? Get ready to add one more thing to your checklist. You can now register for the UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation), to be introduced on 8 January 2025.
The ETA is Britain’s answer to the United States’ ESTA program. Simply, it’s a new visa waiver fee required by all non-British passport holders visiting the UK from early next year, including those who are transiting (from 2 April).
“Australians who don’t currently need a visa for short stays or don’t already have a UK immigration status will need an ETA to travel to the UK,” states the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT).
According to DFAT, “an ETA permits multiple visits to the UK for stays of up to 6 months at a time over 2 years or until the holder’s passport expires, whichever is sooner”.
The cost of the UK ETA is £10 (around AU$20).
But the UK’s not alone here. In early 2025, Australians will also need to obtain the ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) visa waiver to enter Europe after the rollout of the EU scheme was delayed by two years.
The ETIAS – valid for three years and granting visa-free entry to 30 countries – will cost travellers €7 (about AU$11.50).
How to apply and avoid travel hassles
What happens it if you forget to apply before you fly?
“While there may be a grace period, Aussies without the necessary travel permits risk being denied boarding or entry,” Comparetravelinsurance.com.au Managing Director Natalie Ball says.
But don’t expect travel insurance to come to your rescue if you mess up your visa waiver application.
“Airlines typically won’t refund or credit you if you neglected to get the right travel documents,” she states.
“Make sure your visas are sorted and double-check your passport’s validity before packing your bags!”
Ball notes that travel insurance covers the unexpected, not situations you could have avoided.
“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.”
“However, if you fail to secure an ETA, or any required paperwork or documentation for your trip, you would be likely not be covered.”
ETA approval takes up to 72 hours, but travellers should apply well in advance of their departure.
“Travellers are obligated to ensure they are organised ahead of their travels and ensure they have obtained the required visa,” Ball adds.
“If you have not obtained an ETA in time for your trip, it will be at your airline’s discretion as to whether or not you would be able to board your flight.”
Ball also warns travellers to expect some disruptions as the UK ETA launches for Australians.
“In the initial stages… 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 says.
“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.”
Find out more about the UK ETA at the official website here.
