The UK is reducing the ETA entry fee for transit passengers – but it could raise the price for everyone else

The United Kingdom government made a major change to its new Electronic Travel Authorization system just weeks after rolling it out to US travelers on Jan. 8.

When it was introduced, the UK’s ETA system – similar to the United States’ Electronic System for Travel Authorization and the European Union’s planned European Travel Information and Authorization System – meant that travelers denied entry to the country had to apply for an authorization to enter the country and pay the fee. 10 British pound currency (about $12).

Unlike similar schemes in other countries, the fee also applies to passengers who simply transit to the UK without intending to go through passport control.

After a backlash from the UK airline and airport industry, the British government reversed the decision: Transit passengers will be exempted from ETA requirements. However, the government has also proposed to increase the ETA fee for some non-visa travelers.

Here’s what you need to know.

ETA Basics: What is it and who needs it?

The UK first launched its ETA program in 2024 for visitors from the Gulf Cooperation Council states. It expanded the program to include travelers from the US, Canada, Australia and others on Jan. 8. It will be introduced across the EU in April.

The ETA system allows most non-admitted travelers to apply for a permit before entering the country. The application process involves submitting personal information online and paying a fee, initially set at 10 pounds.

After a successful application, the ETA is valid for two years but is tied to your passport; therefore, renewing your passport may require you to reapply for a new ETA.

Travelers must apply for an ETA online before departure. It may take up to three business days to receive approval. You can apply on the UK government website or the UK government app, available on iOS and Android.

What are the ETA changes for transit travelers?

The UK government’s original system required all passengers, even those just connecting at UK airports, to apply for an ETA. This decision mainly affected passengers traveling through London’s Heathrow Airport (LHR) and Manchester Airport (MAN).

The decision was controversial and received backlash from airlines such as British Airways and Virgin Atlantic, as well as airline operators. They argued that the law was uncompetitive compared to other international hubs in Europe.

Heathrow, in particular, has warned that the policy could drive away up to 4 million passengers a year as travelers opt for less hassle-free routes in continental Europe.

In response to industry pressure, the government has now announced a change: Airline passengers will no longer need an ETA.

The move aligns the UK with practices in other major international jurisdictions.

“The removal of passengers from the ETA program is the right decision and we welcome it,” said Heathrow CEO Thomas Woldbye. “It shows that the Government is listening to the concerns of industry and is willing to make the necessary changes to strengthen the UK’s competitiveness and drive economic growth.”

However, it should be noted that the UK government said the decision is temporary and “will be kept under review.” Given the initial furor, a turnaround seems unlikely anytime soon.

Will the ETA fee increase for everyone else?

While the exemption for transit travelers is good news, ETA costs for everyone else could now rise by 60% following new UK government proposals on Thursday.

The latest proposal would increase the fee from 10 to 16 pounds (about $20). For a family of four (including those traveling with infants), the cost of traveling to the UK can rise from £40 (about $49) to £64 (about $78).

The UK Parliament still needs to debate the legislation before it can be fully approved, and there is no clear date for when the price increase might start.

According to the Home Office, the ETA price hike and a host of other changes to the immigration system could generate an extra £269 million (about $328 million) a year.

Who still needs an ETA?

An ETA is required for most travelers entering the UK, except those:

• Hold a British or Irish passport
• Have permission to live, work or study in the UK
• Have a valid UK visa
• You are traveling with a British Overseas Territories citizen’s passport

Irish citizens are exempt when entering from Ireland, the Isle of Man or the Channel Islands; they will need an ETA if they are traveling to the UK from other countries, however.

Bottom line

The exemption eliminates the need for additional paperwork and fees for those connecting through Heathrow or Manchester airports without entering the UK.

The policy change is good news for the UK aviation industry and airlines looking to stay competitive. However, the proposed ETA’s higher cost would add to the overall cost of tourists.

Although the government has not yet confirmed when the possible increase in fees is likely to happen, it seems only a matter of time before it happens. Travelers should check for updates before booking travel and ensure their ETA requests are up to date.