The dream of free movement across Europe has come to an end. In the post-Brexit era, European citizens, including Italians, must now obtain prior authorization to enter London and the United Kingdom (England, Scotland, Northern Ireland, Wales), even for short tourist trips. This new requirement, known as the Electronic Travel Authorisation (Eta), has been introduced by the UK government as a measure to prevent abuses of the immigration system.
- A new system similar to the US Esta
- Deadlines for European and non-European citizens
- An exception: Irish citizens
- Eta costs and validity
- The European response: Etias
- Required documents to enter the UK
- Passports
- Visas
- Electronic Travel Authorisation (Eta)
- Beware of unofficial websites
- Plan your trip to London and the UK in advance
A new system similar to the US Esta
The UK Eta is similar to the US Esta and will become mandatory for all foreign travelers from 2025. This digital permit replaces the need for a visa for short stays, allowing tourists to remain in the country for up to six months in total.
Deadlines for European and non-European citizens
Under the new regulations, starting April 2, 2025, all European citizens, including Italians, who do not have a work visa or permanent residence in the UK, will need to apply for Eta to enter the country. Applications can be submitted from March 5, 2025 through the UK ETA (official website), or via a dedicated app available in smartphone app stores.
For non-European citizens, the Eta requirement will apply from January 8, 2025, and applications can be submitted online or via the app starting November 27, 2024.
An exception: Irish citizens
Irish citizens remain exempt from the Eta requirement thanks to the “Common Travel Area” agreement between the UK and the Republic of Ireland. This exception reflects the special relationship between the two countries and the continued freedom of movement for Irish nationals.
Eta costs and validity
The Eta costs £10 (about €12) and is valid for two years or until the expiration of the passport used for the application. The permit allows stays of up to six months in total within the validity period, but it does not allow you to work, as it is strictly for tourism purposes. Anyone wishing to work in the UK must apply for a specific work visa.
The European response: Etias
The European Union is also adopting a similar system, ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System). From summer 2025, British citizens wishing to visit the EU for tourism must register online and pay €7 for ETIAS, which will be valid for three years and permit unlimited entry to the 27 EU member countries plus Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland.
Required documents to enter the UK
Before planning your trip to the UK, it’s essential to understand the travel document requirements. Here is an overview for both European and non-European citizens.
Passports
Most travelers from the EU, USA, and Switzerland will need a passport valid throughout their stay to enter Great Britain and Northern Ireland. However, some visitors may use a national ID card until December 31, 2025. Always check the specific requirements for your nationality online.
For travelers coming from the “Common Travel Area” (Great Britain, Northern Ireland, Republic of Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey, and Isle of Man), check individual regulations for required documents.
Visas
Most visitors to Great Britain and Northern Ireland will need a standard tourist visa, which has a fee and is valid for three months. However, some citizens can visit for up to six months without a visa. Always check online whether you need a visa and which type applies to you. More information on short-stay visas is available on the UK government’s official website.
Electronic Travel Authorisation (Eta)
From mid-2025, the Electronic Travel Authorisation (Eta) will be required for all visitors who currently do not need a visa for short stays. Eta will replace the need for a visa for stays up to six months for tourism, visiting family or friends, business, or short-term study. It will also apply for transit in the country.
Until Eta is introduced, most travelers from the EU, EEA, and Switzerland will not need a visa but must have a passport valid for their entire stay.
Beware of unofficial websites
The UK government warns travelers against using unofficial websites to apply for Eta or other immigration procedures. These sites may pose security and personal data risks and could charge unnecessary extra fees. Information provided by these sites may also be inaccurate or misleading.
Always check the official UK government website (www.gov.uk) for up-to-date and accurate entry requirements.
Plan your trip to London and the UK in advance
With the introduction of Eta and the new entry regulations, advance planning is vital. Make sure you have all necessary documents, including a valid passport and, if required, Eta or the appropriate visa. Consult the official UK government website or contact a reputable travel agency if you need help preparing for your trip or handling required formalities.
