What is an ETA?
An Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is a digital authorization to travel to the United Kingdom. It's not a visa, but a prior authorization that allows you to enter the UK without a visa. The system is similar to the ESTA in the US or the eTA in Canada. The goal? Increased border security and smoother entry checks. With an approved ETA, you can stay in the UK for up to six months for tourism, business, study, or transit.
Who needs an ETA?
From April 2, 2025, Dutch citizens with a valid passport must apply for an ETA if they travel to the UK for:
Holiday or tourism
Business trips
Short-term study (less than six months)
Visit to family or friends
Transit via the UK to another country
Who doesn't need an ETA?
British citizens
Irish citizens
Dutch citizens who already have a valid UK residency permit (including pre-settled or settled status)
Travelers who only transit through an airport without going through passport control
Please note: If you travel to Ireland via the United Kingdom, you will need an ETA, even if your final destination is Ireland.
The above rules only apply to travelers with a valid Dutch passport. If you have a passport for a different nationality, always check in advance whether you need an ETA or visa to enter the United Kingdom. You can find the most up-to-date information on the official British government website: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/check-when-you-can-get-an-electronic-travel-authorisation-eta
How do you apply for an ETA?
Applying for an ETA is a simple process that you can complete entirely online. You can choose from two official methods:
Methode 1: UK ETA App (aanbevolen)
De officiële UK ETA app is de snelste en gemakkelijkste manier om je aanvraag in te dienen:
Download de app via de App Store of Google Play Store
Volg de stap-voor-stap instructies
Upload een foto van je paspoort
Maak een selfie voor identiteitsverificatie
Betaal de aanvraagkosten
Method 2: Official Website
You can also apply via the official UK government website at www.gov.uk/eta/apply:
Complete the online form
Upload the required documents
Complete the payment
Note: Use only official channels for your ETA application. Avoid external websites or service providers that charge higher fees.
ETA Validity and Passport Requirements
Validity Period
A UK ETA is valid for two years from the date of issue, or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. This means you can travel to the UK multiple times within this period without applying for a new ETA.
Fees
The application fee is £16 (approximately €19) per person. Children also need their own ETA at the same cost.
Passport requirements
Your passport must:
Be valid for at least six months from your planned departure date
Be in good condition
Be machine-readable
Tips for a smooth application
To ensure your application goes smoothly, it's helpful to keep a few things in mind:
Start early: Apply for your ETA at least two weeks before departure. Most applications are processed within three days, but it can take longer during busy periods.
Check your details: Make sure your name, date of birth, and passport number match exactly. A spelling error can cause delays.
Keep your confirmation: The ETA is electronically linked to your passport, but make a note of your reference number just in case.
Stay informed: Follow updates from the British government or the Foreign Office.
The new ETA system may sound like an extra step, but in practice, it's quick and easy to arrange. As long as you submit your application well in advance and check your details carefully, you can travel to the United Kingdom without any worries. This way, your trip to England, Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland starts off relaxed, even before you board the DFDS ferry!
