Since 2023, the United Kingdom has been gradually rolling out its Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) program as part of the government’s ongoing plans to digitalise border control by 2025.
Designed to enhance security and streamline incoming international traffic, the UK ETA is currently available to nationals of 49 specific countries, with an additional 34 countries from Europe being eligible from the 2nd April 2025.
In this article, we will explain what the UK ETA system is, who is currently eligible, who may be eligible next and the implications of these changes for United Arab Emirates (UAE) citizens.
What is the UK ETA?
The UK ETA is a digital travel permit that is an entry requirement for visa-exempt nationals looking to visit the UK for short-term stays. As opposed to traditional Visas, the ETA has a more user-friendly application process and is more cost-effective. Additionally, to increase security within the UK, the ETA is digitally connected to the holder’s passport to provide an extra level of background checks for all visitors coming to the country.
The scheme was created to accommodate people intending to stay in the country for short periods of time, such as for tourism, visiting friends and family, business and short-term study.
The application fee is £10, and the authorization is typically processed within three working days. Once approved, the ETA is valid for multiple entries into the UK for stays of up to six months and is then valid for two years or until the traveler’s passport expires, whichever comes first.
Is the UK Visa-free for UAE Residents?
Prior to the introduction of the ETA, UAE passport holders could visit the UK using an Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW), allowing stays of up to six months without a traditional visa. However, since the rollout of the ETA, the EVW scheme has been replaced.
Now, since February 2024, UAE citizens are required to obtain an ETA before traveling to the UK. However, in comparison to the previous EVW system, the ETA offers significant benefits which make visiting the UK more convenient.
For example, the new online application process is extremely straightforward with typically fast turnarounds, offering travelers more flexibility and less stress when planning their trip. Additionally, while the EVQ required a separate application for each visit, the ETA instead allows for multiple trips without reapplying.
Overall, even though UAE residents cannot travel to the UK visa-free, the ETA is a more cost-effective and time-saving option for frequent travelers and ensures visitors can enter the country with minimal hassle, and you can read this page for more information about uk visa for uae residents.
Who is Currently Eligible for the ETA?
The ETA scheme was originally rolled out to Qatari residents in November 2023 before being introduced to other Middle Eastern countries in February 2024.
Since then, the program has continued to expand to additional non-European and European nations, with the focus of aligning with the UK’s goal of improving border security and maintaining strong travel ties with countries that previously enjoyed visa-free access.
From 2025, the ETA is required for citizens of every country that has a visa-free travel agreement with the UK – including the US, Canada, and Australia. Starting April 2, 2025, this requirement will also extend to most European nations. The full list of countries eligible to apply for an ETA, along with details for travelers planning on transiting through UK airports, is available on the UK ETA website.
Who might be eligible next?
Following the end of the comprehensive rollout in April, there will be no additional countries pending inclusion. However, this does not rule out the possibility of future changes to the program, including the addition or removal of countries, depending on the UK’s evolving immigration policies and security measures.
It is likely that the government will periodically review the ETA system, evaluate its effectiveness and adjust its visa policies based on factors such as diplomatic relations, security assessments, and immigration trends.
Beyond the inclusion of the additional 34 European countries to the ETA list, there are currently no official announcements, as the UK government is describing this latest change as ‘the last major step in the rollout of the ETA’. That being said, travelers are advised to monitor the official government website for timely updates on any changes to the ETA system or other visa requirements.
Conclusion
The UK’s implementation of the Electronic Travel Authorization is a huge advancement in the country’s bid to digitalise border control, following in the footsteps of similar systems already in place in countries like the US, Australia, and Saudi Arabia.
As travelers get used to these changes, it’s important to stay up to date with official advice to understand whether or not you are eligible for an ETA and avoid getting caught out.
Over time, we expect for more countries to follow the digitalization path as global travel continues to evolve and digital pre-screening measures like the ETA become the standard.
By Gregory O'NeillGreg is a modern-day explorer with an insatiable love for travel. His passion for adventure has led him to far-flung corners of the world, where he immerses himself in diverse cultures and experiences. Greg's zest for life is epitomized by a continuous pursuit of new horizons and captivating journeys.
