From 2 April 2025, Belgian and other European travellers will be required to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to travel to the United Kingdom (UK). This measure will apply to both tourist and business trips with a maximum stay of six months.

News » From 2 April mandatory ETA for a (sailing) trip to England!

From 2 April mandatory ETA for a (sailing) trip to England! 31.1.2025

From 2 April 2025, Belgian and other European travellers will be required to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to travel to the United Kingdom (UK). This measure will apply to both tourist and business trips with a maximum stay of six months.

When and how to apply for an ETA?

From 5 March 2025, Belgian travellers will be able to apply for their ETA. This can easily be done online via the official UK government website or the UK ETA app.

  • Download on the App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/uk-eta/id6444912481
  • Download on Google Play
  • Apply online if you cannot install the app

The application process is as follows:

  1. Take or upload a photo of the passport you are travelling to the UK with.
  2. Scan your face with your device, if it has a camera. Children aged 9 and under will not be asked to scan their face.
  3. Take or upload a photo of yourself. A recent digital passport photo is required.
  4. Answer some questions about yourself. You must provide your name, date of birth and passport details.
  5. Payment - The application costs £10 (about €11.80), payable by a valid payment method.

Most applications are processed within three working days. However, it is recommended to apply for an ETA well in advance to avoid delays. So you should apply for your ETA at the latest 72 hours before departure!

View the full manual for the ETA app here.

Geldigheid en voorwaarden

An approved ETA is valid for two years and linked to your passport. Within this period, you can travel to the UK several times, with a maximum stay of six months at a time. Please note that if your passport expires, your ETA will also expire and you will need to apply for a new one.

Exceptions and additional rules:

  • Irish citizens are exempt and do not need an ETA.
  • Children need their own ETA; a separate application must be submitted for each child.
  • Travel documents: From 2021, it will no longer be possible to travel to the UK with a Belgian identity card (eID). You will need a valid passport to apply for an ETA and enter the UK.

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