There's one extra important step to take before going on a European cruise in 2025 if you're sailing from the United Kingdom.
There's a new requirement for tourists visiting the UK that goes into effect next month and it adds a piece of digital paperwork
As of January 8, 2025, travelers from the United States, Canada, and Australia will need to obtain a UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to enter the United Kingdom. European nationals have until April 2, 2025 to start using it.
It applies to tourists, business travelers, and even flight layovers. If you try to go to the UK without a valid ETA, you may face fines or be denied boarding by their airline.
The point of it is to enhance border security through advanced screening.
Essentially, this is a digital travel permission system. Don't confuse it with a visa, as it's meant to streamline border control processes and allows authorities to screen travelers before they arrive.
Do you need to get an ETA?
If you aren't a resident of Ireland or the UK, you're probably going to need to get an ETA.
However, when you need to start getting one depends on where you live.
Residents of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE have already been using the system as part of a pilot program.
Citizens of the United States, Canada, and Australia: The new requirement begins January 8, 2025.
Citizens of European Union countries, along with other eligible European nations: The requirement doesn't begin until April 2, 2025, but since cruises are in the summer, they'll still need to get one for this season.
The following people are exempt from getting one:
- UK and Irish citizens
- Travelers with valid UK visas
How the ETA works
The application fee is £10 ($13 USD), and it's all done online.
Once you do it, you can use it for for two years or until the your passport expires, whichever comes first. That means you can take multiple trips to the UK without re-applying again.
Here’s what you’ll need to apply:
- A valid passport: Ensure your passport has sufficient validity for your travel plans.
- A recent digital photo: The photo must meet UK passport photo requirements.
- Travel details: Provide the dates and purpose of your trip.
- A valid debit or credit card: This will be used to pay the £10 application fee.
- An email address: This is where you’ll receive confirmation of your ETA approval.
The system claims it can take up to 3 days to process, but some people are reporting it taking just a few minutes.
You can apply for an ETA online or through the iPhone or Android apps.
You just need to have it before you begin your travel to Europe. The airline may ask to see it before you fly.
