What are ETA visas and who will they apply to?

The system of electronic travel authorisations (ETA) will replace the existing visa-free travel for citizens of the European Union and other friendly countries in autumn 2024. It will apply to short-term travel of up to 6 months for tourism, visiting family and friends or short-term study. The following groups of travellers will need to secure an ETA before travelling:

• Citizens of European Union countries (including the Czech Republic)
• Citizens of the European Economic Area (EEA), i.e. Iceland, Norway and Liechtenstein
• Citizens of Switzerland and other selected countries with visa-free travel to the UK

For work and study trips longer than 6 months, the standard visa will remain in force. Similarly, the ETA will not apply to Irish citizens who enjoy freedom of movement through the Common Travel Area.

Why is the UK introducing ETA visas and how did the system come about?

The main aim of introducing ETA visas is to increase the security and efficiency of border controls after the UK leaves the European Union. This is the British government’s response to the growing threats of international terrorism and organised crime. ETA will also make travel easier for citizens of countries with low immigration risks. Applications will be able to be processed online, without the need to visit an embassy. A decision is expected within 48 hours. The UK’s ETA is inspired by similar systems operated by the US (ESTA), Canada (eTA) and Australia (ETA). This will put the UK alongside other English-speaking countries that use electronic travel authorisations.

What will be the process for applying for an ETA to the UK?

The ETA visa will be applied for online via a central web portal. Applicants will need to provide their personal details (name, date of birth, passport number), purpose of travel and intended length of stay. For a detailed procedure on how to complete the application, please see our the complete guide to the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for the UK. The application will include answering security questions and agreeing to share data with the UK authorities. The system will then automatically process the request and assess the risks. The vast majority of applicants should receive a response within 48 hours by email. If the application is refused, it will be possible to appeal or request a review. The details of the appeal process are yet to be finalised, but in any case the UK authorities promise a transparent and fair procedure.

When exactly will ETA visas start and how much will they cost?

The obligation to obtain an ETA visa is expected to start at the end of 2024. However, applications can be submitted as early as the last quarter of 2024 to avoid a rush just before the launch. The final price of the ETA visa has not yet been set, with speculation of between £10 and £20 (approx. CZK 300-600). This fee will cover the administrative costs associated with running the system and increased security checks. The ETA visa will be valid for 2 years from the date of issue and will entitle the holder to an unlimited number of entries into the country. Holders will therefore be able to enter the UK freely during this period, for a maximum of 6 months at any one time.

What does the introduction of ETA visas mean for Czech travellers?

Unfortunately, for the citizens of the Czech Republic there will be complications and more expensive travel compared to the current visa-free travel. This is a kind of tax for increased security and Britain’s efforts to better control the flow of visitors after Brexit. Read more, how travel to the UK will change in 2024, you will find in our next article. On the other hand, the ETA visa process should be quick, simple and fully online. No lengthy paperwork and embassy visits like with standard visas. Just fill in the form on the website, pay the fee by card and wait for the confirmation email. The good news is that the visa is valid for 2 years and re-entry is possible. Czechs travelling to the UK more often will not have to re-apply before each trip. A one-off investment in an ETA will therefore pay for itself over time. However, we still recommend that you do not delay in applying for an ETA visa and apply well in advance of your planned trip. This will avoid the stress of complications or delays.

Conclusion

The introduction of the ETA electronic travel authorisation from 2025 will significantly change the rules for travel to the UK. Although this means the end of visa-free travel for us Czechs, in practical terms it should not be a major complication. 

Electronic ETA visas for travel to the UK from 2025[/caption] The application process will be simple, quick and completely online. For a modest fee, you will get a 2-year permit and unlimited travel. In doing so, we will help the UK authorities maintain a high standard of security and efficiency at border controls. However, we strongly recommend that you do not leave anything to the last minute and apply for an ETA visa in advance. It is also worth keeping up to date as some of the parameters of the system have not yet been fully specified. If you are interested in the introduction of ETA visas to the UK, keep an eye on our blog. We’ll keep you up to date with all the latest news and practical tips. We wish you happy and hassle-free travel to the land of Albion beyond 2025!