Planning a trip to London? Whether you're flying for a holiday, business, or to visit friends, understanding the latest updates to UK entry rules is key.
This guide explains all you need to know about the new UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), which is required to meet London entry requirements in 2025.
You’ll also find details on how the ETA differs from a visa and which document you need for your trip.
Do you need a visa to go to London?
Requirements for entry to the UK have been updated. As of 2025, all visitors need a visa or ETA. This includes Swiss, Austrian, and German travellers. This includes Spanish travellers and citizens of all South American countries. The only exemptions are Irish nationals, as well as British citizens and residents. The only exemptions are Irish nationals, as well as British citizens and residents. You need an ETA if you:
- Want to stay in the UK for 6 months or less
- Come from an eligible country
- Are visiting for tourism, business, or short-term study
You need a UK visa if you:
- Come from a country that’s not eligible for an ETA
- Are travelling to work, study, or stay longer than 6 months
- Were previously refused entry to the UK
Getting an approved ETA is the fastest and easiest way to visit the UK. Check the ETA eligible countries to find out if you can apply.
What is the UK ETA?
The UK ETA is a type of digital entry permit. It isn’t a type of visa — it gives you electronic pre-approval for visiting the UK.
All travellers who don’t need a visa for the United Kingdom now need the ETA. Here are the key details:
- Stay for short visits
- For tourism, business, and transit
- Valid for 2 years or until your passport expires
- Multiple entries allowed
Once it’s approved, your ETA is automatically linked to your passport. You can usually stay in the UK for up to 6 months per visit, but this depends on your nationality. EU and Swiss passport holders can stay in the UK for up to 6 months with an approved ETA. Citizens of Spain, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Guyana, Paraguay, Peru, and Uruguay can stay in the UK for up to 6 months with an approved ETA.
Do you need an ETA to go London?
If you’re from a visa-exempt country, the ETA is needed for trips to London, as well as other parts of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
You don’t need an ETA for visits to Dublin or the Republic of Ireland, but you may need a visa, depending on your nationality. If you hold an EU or Swiss passport, you can stay in Ireland for up to 90 days, visa-free.
UK ETA vs visa: What’s the difference?
The application process and validity details of the ETA and UK visit visa are different. Here’s a breakdown of the key information on each type of entry permit:
| Feature | UK ETA | UK visitor visa |
|---|---|---|
| Who needs it | Visa-exempt travellers | Travellers not eligible for the ETA |
| Validity | 2 years | 6 months to 10 years |
| How to apply | Online form | Online form and in person visit |
| Processing time | 1–2 days | Around 3 weeks |
| Documents required |
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Need a visa for the UK? Make your application on the UK government website through the Visas and Immigration service.
UK ETA: Quick and easy entry permit for London
The ETA application process is short and straightforward. If you qualify, apply today and get your travel authorisation in minutes.
Fast online application. Reviewed by experts.
London travel requirements in 2025
To visit London in 2025, you’ll need to present the following documents on arrival:
- Passport with at least 6 months’ validity
- UK visa, if needed for your nationality
If you have an approved ETA, there’s no need to carry any application paperwork when you travel. Your ETA status will be visible to border officers when your passport is scanned.
Immigration officers might also ask to see:
- Return or onward travel ticket
- Proof you can fund your trip
- Documents related to your visa application
If you have an approved visa for the United Kingdom, you might be asked to show documentation from your application when you arrive. This could include an invitation letter from family or friends, or work sponsorship information.
How to apply for the ETA for London online
Etauk.com is a private agency that is not affiliated with the UK government. We’re dedicated to making the travel document application process easy.
Our streamlined ETA platform is designed to be fast, simple, and hassle-free. With us, you can secure your ETA in just 3 easy steps:
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2- Pay the application fee with a credit or debit card.
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3- Receive your ETA by email
With our Express Service, you can receive your ETA in just 1 hour, or opt for a more flexible delivery timeframe if you prefer.
We’ve already helped thousands of international travellers get their ETA successfully. 99% of applications made through our site get approved first time around.
Your ETA with Etauk.com — No embassy visits. No long forms. Just a smooth online process.
When should you apply for the ETA?
You’re recommended to apply for an ETA at least 3 days before your trip. All applications made with Etauk.com are processed in 1 to 2 days, so you can make your travel plans with peace of mind.
If you’re travelling to London for a spontaneous visit or last minute business trip, there’s no need to panic about the new requirements. We offer a 1-hour Priority processing service for urgent requests.
Register with your embassy for extra security
Applying with a passport from Australia, Canada, Japan, the Netherlands, New Zealand, or the United States? You can add on Embassy registration when you apply for your ETA with Etauk.com.
We’ll inform your embassy in London about your visit, so you can receive important travel safety updates during your trip.
What to expect at border control in London
The ETA process is designed to speed up immigration checks on arrival in the UK. Simply present your passport, and be ready to explain the purpose of your trip.
Officials will see your ETA approved status when your passport is scanned, as it’s linked electronically.
Minors and babies also need an ETA. Remember to complete an application on your child’s behalf.
Border control with a UK visa
If you’re travelling to the UK with a visa, you must present it along with your passport when you arrive.
Based on your reason for visiting, you might need to show other documents, like financial evidence that you can support yourself during your time in the UK, or a return flight ticket.
Transiting through London airports
For transit via a London airport, you may need an ETA or a visa. Here’s a guide to the requirements:
| Topass through border control or leave the airport: | To remain in the same airport and terminal to wait for your connecting flight: |
|---|---|
| ✓ ETA or visa required | ✗ No ETA or visa required |
Make sure to check the details of your travel itinerary carefully. If you need a visa or ETA and don’t apply in advance, it could cause delays and problems when you travel.
Why choose Etauk.com for your ETA application?
Look no further for hassle-free travel preparation for London and the UK. We specialise in getting your ETA approved quickly.
Travellers trust us to deliver a reliable and efficient service. Etauk.com guarantees:
- Simple, fast, and secure process
- All applications checked by experts before submission
- Support in 15+ languages
- Money-back promise if your ETA is refused
Take 10 minutes to get your ETA set up and prepare for a great trip to London.
Got any questions about how our service works? We’re here to help. Get in touch with our friendly Customer Support team today.