Traveling to the United Kingdom won’t be so hassle-free for U.S. citizens anymore. Starting next year, the U.K. will require Americans who are visiting the country visa-free to get a prior online approval.
The new requirement is part of the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system that the U.K. is putting in place as part of efforts to improve the security of its borders. It will roll out in stages and will eventually be required for all visitors except British and Irish citizens, as well as holders of standard U.K. visas.
This means that Americans will be required to apply for ETA at a cost of around $12.50 if they plan to travel to the U.K. past January 8, 2025. The application can be sent online or via mobile app and is usually processed within minutes, although the process can sometimes take up to 72 hours.
The application will require answering a series of questions and submitting data like a passport, travel details, an email address, and a credit or debit card.
Once approved, the ETA will remain valid for up to two years. During that time, travelers can make multiple visits without applying for a new ETA.
The ETA applications for Americans wishing to visit the U.K. in the future are already open. It is advisable to submit a request at least several days before the date of your trip.