As of April 2, the electronic travel authorization (ETA) system comes into effect for all EU citizens, including Greeks, who wish to travel to the United Kingdom.

After the UK first implemented the system in January for around 50 countries—including the US, Canada, and Australia—it is now extending the requirement to citizens of about 30 European countries. Travelers must obtain this document before entering the UK, which has tightened its border policy post-Brexit.

The Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs reminds Greeks that travelers must complete an online application through the UK government website or the UK ETA app, before arriving in the country, providing personal information and answering a series of questions, including security-related ones.

The UK Home Office recommends applying at least three business days before travel, as additional documentation may be required in some cases. The application typically takes less than 10 minutes, and the authorization—digitally linked to the traveler’s passport—is usually issued within minutes.

The cost of the ETA is currently £10 (approx. €12) but will increase to £16 (approx. €19) from April 9. Travelers must present the ETA at airports or train stations when departing for the UK.

The ETA is valid for two years and allows the holder to stay in the UK for up to six months per visit. Within this two-year window, travelers can enter the UK an unlimited number of times. However, if the passport is renewed or changed, a new ETA must be issued.

Even travelers transiting through the UK are required to have an ETA, except in specific cases—such as at Heathrow or Manchester airports—where a border check is not necessary during layovers.

“If you’re not a visa-national, British or Irish citizen, we want to verify your details before you travel to the UK,” explained Phil Douglas, Director General of the UK Border Force.

With the exception of Ireland, all EU nationals—adults and minors—must obtain an ETA, unless they already hold another valid visa (e.g. student or work visa).

The UK’s ETA is similar to the ESTA system used by the United States.

According to Douglas, there will be a “grace period” until September or October, during which authorities will show leniency. However, after that, no traveler will be allowed to board a plane or train to the UK without an ETA.