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New UK ETA changes

Starting Feb. 25....

The price of a UK ETA will rise to 20 GBP.

Enforcement of having an ETA will begin and if you don't have one you won't be allowed to board your plane, train or ferry.

Whether or not you will now need one to transit is questionable. An email sent out by the US Embassy in London says you need to transit but I couldn't find that fact anywhere else.

However, a blog put out by the UK governent says transiting passengers who do not go through UK passport control don't need one.

https://homeofficemedia.blog.gov.uk/electronic-travel-authorisation-eta-factsheet-november-2025/

Posted by
3503 posts

Thanks Frank II. Although I don’t have a UK trip planned, I’ll reapply after I receive my new passport. It doesn’t hurt to have the ETA; Girl Scout motto “Be Prepared”.

Posted by
46 posts

Very timely announcement. Sending mine in this weekend. Thank you!

Posted by
498 posts

Does anyone know if it is true that the ETA is embedded in your passport? I don't seem to have other evidence of having purchased our ETAs.

Posted by
498 posts

Sorry, I found the answer to my question. I do have documentation but it says I don't need it, lol.

You only need your passport with the passport number that ends in XXXX

You do not need to print or show this confirmation email.

Posted by
3694 posts

Thank you Frank, I was able to alert a friend traveling this summer and he got his done before the rate increase. He was most appreciative to save some pounds for his family of 4.

Katiecem there have been occasional reports of airline desk staff asking for "proof" so just keep a copy of your email approval somewhere handy just in case.

Posted by
1114 posts

Katiecm, my family and I have travelled to the UK many times since the ETA was introduced and have never been asked for proof. And you're right, the rules say you don't need evidence of an ETA. That said, no harm in retaining the approval email just in case. It's also a good reminder of when you need to reapply.