European citizens must have an ETA to enter the UK from 2 April 2025. Applications for European passport holders and all other eligible travellers are now open.
Swiss citizens used to enjoy visa-free access to the UK with just a passport. But starting from April 2025, that’s no longer enough.
A new travel authorisation called the ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) is now required by all travellers from visa-exempt countries for all short trips to the UK.
This includes holidays, business visits, and transit.
This change has added an extra step—and some confusion—for many Swiss travellers.
On this page, you’ll find everything you need to know about the new ETA UK for Swiss citizens, including:
- How long the ETA is valid
- What documents are required
- How to apply in just 3 steps
- What to expect at the border
- Why choosing our agency helps you avoid delays, rejections, or stress
We’ve been processing ETAs and similar travel permits for years. Let us handle the paperwork, check your form, and send your ETA directly to your inbox. That way, you can focus on your trip—not the admin.
UK ETA details for Swiss citizens
Here’s what you need to know at a glance:
- Required for: short stays in the UK (tourism, business, transit)
- Eligibility: all Swiss passport holders
- Valid for: 2 years or until your passport expires
- Stay per visit: up to 6 months
- Multiple entries: yes
- Document format: digital (linked to your passport)
- Application time: typically processed in 1–2 days (1h Priority service available)
Why do Swiss citizens need an ETA?
The UK government introduced the ETA system to pre-screen visitors before they enter the country.
While this system has existed for other nationalities for years, Swiss citizens will now need to follow the same process starting in April 2025.
You cannot board your flight or cross the UK border without an approved ETA.
This change may seem inconvenient—but we’re here to make it easy. With our support, you can apply quickly, avoid mistakes, and get your ETA on time. No navigating government sites. No rejections due to typos. No last-minute surprises at the airport.
Documents you’ll need
To apply for an ETA, you only need:
- A valid Swiss biometric passport
- A credit or debit card for payment
- An email address to receive your approval
No extra paperwork, no embassy visits. We take care of the details.
Apply in 3 simple steps
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2. Let our team review your application
Our experts review everything before submission—reducing the risk of rejection
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3. Receive your ETA by email
Once approved, your ETA is digitally linked to your passport
Top tip: Get your ETA in as little as 1 hour by choosing our Priority Processing service when paying.
Travel prepared with Etauk.de
We help make entry into UK for Swiss citizens simple and stress-free.
Join the thousands who’ve already received their ETA with out help. Apply today and travel with confidence.
We’re here to guide you through every step
Entry into England from Switzerland
You can travel from Switzerland to the UK by plane, train (via France), or ferry.
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Air travel:
- travelling from Switzerland to London? Many airlines offer direct flights from various Swiss airports to London Heathrow, Gatwick, Luton, City, and Stansted airports.
- Other connections include Bristol, Birmingham, and Liverpool.
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Train + ferry travel:
- Some travellers take the train to Paris or Brussels and continue via Eurostar to London.
- It’s also possible to drive or take a coach and cross by ferry from Calais or Dunkirk.
Whether you’re flying for business or visiting friends, the entry into England from Switzerland now requires this extra step: the ETA.
Why Swiss travellers choose Etauk.com
We are not the UK government—we are a private agency that helps travellers apply for their ETA confidently and correctly.
Here’s why thousands trust us every year:
- Years of experience
- Tens of thousands of completed ETA applications
- Applications reviewed by experts
- Over 99% approval rate
- Multilingual customer support
- Quick turnover
Avoid errors. Skip long government forms. Let us help you get your ETA without stress.
Benefits of an ETA
There are a number of benefits of the ETA:
- No need to apply for a visa
- Easy online process
- Fast approval times
- Valid for 2 years—use it for multiple trips
- No need to reapply unless your passport changes
You’ll need an ETA whether you’re entering for a weekend break or a longer visit. With our help, it’s just one simple task to check off your list.
Swiss travellers’ most common questions
Below are the are answers to some of the most frequent questions about travelling to the UK from Switzerland.
What documents do Swiss citizens need to enter the UK? Toggle faqs
You need a valid Swiss passport and an ETA authorisation before departure. Without it, you won’t be allowed to board your flight or cross the UK border.
Can Swiss nationals enter the UK with my Swiss ID card? Toggle faqs
No. Entry into England with Swiss ID card is no longer an option, as the UK has stopped accepting national ID cards for entry. A biometric passport is required.
Is the UK a visa-free country for Swiss travellers? Toggle faqs
While Swiss travellers are technically exempt from visas, you must now apply for an ETA to enter the UK.
What entry permit do I need for Great Britain? Toggle faqs
You need a valid ETA, linked to your passport. You’ll receive an email confirmation once your application is approved.
Does transit in the UK require an ETA? Toggle faqs
Yes. Even if you’re not leaving the airport, you must apply for an ETA if you transit through any UK airport and pass through border control.
You should contact your airline if you’re not sure if you need this document.
What is the UK ETA for Swiss citizens? Toggle faqs
It’s a digital travel authorisation introduced in 2025. It allows entry into England from Switzerland for short stays. We help Swiss travellers get this document every day. Our ETA application fees include numerous benefits, including expert error-checking.