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The UK government has confirmed that the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) fee will rise from £10 to £16 starting April 9, 2025. Travellers planning a trip to the UK should apply early to avoid the price hike.
Planning a trip to London, Edinburgh, or beyond? Travellers, take note! The government of United Kingdom has officially announced a significant increase in the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) fee. Prepare for a price hike starting April 9, 2025.
ETA Fee Increase Confirmed
Get ready for a 60% jump in the UK ETA cost. The fee, currently £10, will rise to £16. This change, confirmed by the British government, is aimed at bolstering immigration system funding without burdening taxpayers. This aligns with broader reforms to streamline immigration and nationality services.
• Key Date: April 9, 2025
• New Fee: £16 (approximately €20 / US$21)
• Current Fee: £10 (approximately €/$13)
Why Is the UK Increasing the ETA Fee?
The 60% fee increase is part of a broader government initiative to improve funding for the UK immigration system. By aligning administrative fees with actual processing costs, the government aims to reduce reliance on public funds while maintaining efficiency in managing foreign visitor entry.
The price hike was initially announced in January 2025 as part of a package of immigration and nationality service reforms. This change ensures that the costs of processing travel authorizations are in line with operational expenses.
How to Avoid Paying More for Your UK ETA
Travellers planning to visit the UK in the coming months should consider applying for their ETA before April 9, 2025, to take advantage of the current £10 fee. This is especially relevant for European travellers, as the ETA will become mandatory for them starting April 2, 2025.
Applying early ensures you secure a two-year travel authorization at a lower rate, saving money while avoiding last-minute travel stress.
• Tip: Apply before April 9, 2025, to avoid the higher fee.
• Validity: UK ETA is valid for two years.
Exemptions for Airside Transit Passengers
Responding to feedback from the aviation industry, the UK government has announced a temporary exemption from the ETA requirement for airside transit passengers—those who remain in the airport’s international transit area without passing through UK border control.
This exemption aims to facilitate smoother travel for international passengers with connecting flights through the UK. However, travellers should stay updated on any future changes to transit policies.
Global Trend Towards ETA
The UK’s adoption and fee adjustment of the Electronic Travel Authorizations (ETA) system aligns with a broader international trend. Countries worldwide are implementing ETA to enhance security and streamline entry procedures.
For example:
• Japan is fast-tracking its own ETA system
• The U.S. has long required an ESTA for visa-free travellers
• The EU will introduce ETIAS for non-EU travellers soon
With global travel policies evolving, visitors are encouraged to stay informed about the latest entry requirements before planning their trips.
Final Thoughts
If you’re planning a trip to the UK, applying for your ETA before April 9, 2025, is the best way to save money. The increase in the fee reflects the government’s strategy to improve immigration system funding while keeping the process efficient. Be sure to apply early and check for updates to avoid unexpected travel costs.
Source: https://travelobiz.com/uk-eta-fee-increase-60-percent-april-9-2025/
