New entry regulations for the United Kingdom
UK ETA: What you need to know now.
Since 2025 an Electronic Travel Authorisation (UK ETA) for the UK is required. This applies for travellers who do not need a visa but are visiting or transiting the UK. Linked to the traveller’s passport, the UK ETA must be obtained at least 3 days before travelling. A UK ETA is valid for two years or until the passport expires.
UK ETA Enrolment:
- Gulf Cooperation Council Nationals: Implemented
- Non-European Nationals: Effective 08th January 2025, application from 27th November 2024
- European Nationals: Effective 02nd April 2025, application from 05th March 2025
As part of the UK's fully digitized entry system, the eVisa is being introduced. This replaces many physical documents, such as biometric residence permits (BRPs), biometric residence cards (BRC), and visa stickers in passports. The eVisa is linked directly to the traveller’s travel passport and can be accessed through a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account. However, we advise our passengers to continue to carry their valid physical immigration documents with them.
More information about the UK ETA: New entry regulations for the United Kingdom | SWISS