UK ETA: What Private Jet Travelers Need to Know Before Visiting the UK

Traveling to the United Kingdom is no longer as simple as just hopping on a train, boat, or airplane with your EU passport. Starting from 2025, a trip to the UK now comes with a new entry requirement: the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). If you’re planning a visit to England, Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland, it’s important to know if and when you’ll need to apply for this UK ETA.

Flying with pets to the UK? While your ETA is essential, remember that flying with pets involves distinct and mandatory documentation. Consult our Private Jet Travel with Pets guide for all pet-specific information.

Do I need an UK ETA to visit or transit the UK?

As of April 2, 2025, most travelers from the European Union and the Schengen Area will need to apply for an UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before visiting the United Kingdom for short stays (up to 6 months).

You’ll need an ETA if:

• You’re a citizen of an EU member state, or a Schengen Area country (e.g., Norway, Switzerland, Iceland, Liechtenstein)
• You’re from a Schengen microstate: Andorra, Monaco, San Marino, or Vatican City
• You’re visiting for tourism, business, study, or visiting family/friends

You do not need an ETA if you:

• Are a British or Irish citizen
• Have settled/pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS)
• Hold a valid UK visa or UK immigration status
• Are traveling from within the Common Travel Area (CTA) (Ireland, Isle of Man, or Channel Islands)

⚠️ Note for Irish residents: If you’re not an Irish citizen but live in Ireland and are entering the UK, you may still need an ETA depending on your nationality.

What does the UK ETA allow?

Once approved, your UK ETA:

• Is valid for 2 years or until your passport expires (whichever comes first)
• Allows multiple entries into the UK
• Covers visits of up to 6 months per trip
• Is required for each individual, including children

Do I need an ETA to transit through the UK?

Maybe. It depends on whether you pass through UK border control:

• Airside Transit: You don’t need an ETA if you remain in the international transit area and do not pass through border control
• Landside Transit: You may need an ETA (or a transit visa) if you:
  • Change terminals or collect baggage
  • Have a long layover that requires entry into the UK

When in doubt, check with your airline and the UK government’s transit guidance (link opens in new tab).

Ready to apply? A step-by-step guide on how to apply for an UK ETA

Applying is fast and fully online. Whether you’re traveling from France, Germany, Spain, or anywhere in the EU or Schengen Area, this step-by-step guide will help you complete your UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) application smoothly and confidently.

Step 1: Prepare what you’ll need

In case you are required to have an UK ETA for your trip, you’ll need the following to apply:

• A valid biometric passport
• A digital photo (you can take one during the application or upload one)
• A credit or debit card
• A few minutes of your time

Step 2: Start your ETA application

You can apply via the following methods:

• Online via the official UK ETA website (link opens in new tab)
• On your phone through the UK ETA app (available for iOS and Android)

Both methods guide you through the same process. The app can be more convenient if you’re taking a photo on the spot.

Step 3: Fill out the ETA application form

You’ll be asked for:

• Your personal details (full name, date of birth, nationality)
• Your passport information
• Your travel plans (approximate date of arrival)
• A few security & eligibility questions (criminal record, immigration history, etc.)

Then you’ll be asked to upload or take a digital photo.

💡 Tip: Your photo doesn’t need to be professional, but make sure that your photo is:

• Clear and well-lit (avoid shadows and reflections)
• Face fully visible (no hats or sunglasses)
• Taken against a plain background

Step 4: Pay the ETA fee

• Use any major credit or debit card
• The system will charge £16

Once payment is complete, you’ll receive a confirmation email.

Step 5: Wait for approval

• Most applications are approved within several minutes
• Some applications may take up to 72 hours if additional checks are needed
• You’ll receive your ETA by email — no physical document is needed

💡 Tip: You can also check your ETA status through the app or website at any time.

Step 6: Travel with the same passport

The ETA is valid for a period of 2 years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. Note that the ETA is linked to your passport. When you travel:

• Make sure to bring the same passport you used for the application
• Your private jet operator or other carrier will check ETA status before boarding
• You don’t need to print anything, but it’s advised to keep the confirmation email of your ETA

Common mistakes to avoid

• Using the wrong passport (especially dual citizens)
• Incorrect or incomplete personal details
• Waiting until the last minute — apply at least several days before travel
• Assuming you’re exempt — check your eligibility carefully

Final Thoughts

Applying for an UK ETA is a fast, inexpensive, and essential step if you’re visiting the UK from the EU or Schengen Area. Take 10 minutes to complete the application, and you’ll travel with peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)