In this article, I explain what you need to know about ETAA permit is required before visiting London in 2025.
Here you'll find
- What does ETA mean to London?
- Who needs this travel authorization
- How to get it
- How much does ETA London cost?
- And much more!
If you're looking for information on ETA travel authorization for London, you'll love this article.
Follow the guide!
ETA London : article summary
ETA London: Electronic Travel Authorization for travel to the UK
You are planning to visit London in 2025? A very good idea, as the English capital has so much to offer!
But before tourism in the city, be aware that a new rule of access to the country will come into force April 2, 2025.
This is a ETA electronic travel authorization (for Electronic Travel Autorization), required for all French citizens wishing to visit the UK as tourists.
I'll explain how to obtain one, who is involved, and all the rules you need to know, to help you organize your trip.
Who needs an ETA for London?
All travellers previously exempt from visa requirements will have to apply for an ETA.
This concerns French (and European) nationalsFor those who do not have a VISA or permanent or temporary resident status. (For those who have already traveled to the U.S., it's the same principle as ESTA).
In detail, ETA is aimed at :
- To those who plan to come less than 6 months in the UKas part of a tourist, study, training or business trip
- Those connecting to flights in the UK, even if they do not pass through border control / leave the international zone of the airport.
Good to know If you're coming to London as a family, you'll need to apply for an ETA for each family member.
How do I get an ETA?
Here's what you need to know to apply for an ETA. Although authorization will be required as of April 2, 2025, French nationals will be able to apply for an ETA as follows from March 5, 2025.
What documents are required for ETA?
For the application, you will need :
- Your passport
- Access to your email address
- A means of payment (CB, electronic solution)
- A way to send a photo of your passport or scan it / a solution to take a photo of yourself
Where to apply
You can apply for an ETA online, via :
- The official page dedicated to the British government
- The mobile application created especially for the process, available on the App Store and on the Play Store
How much does ETA cost London?
This electronic travel authorization is subject to a fee and costs £10.
There are no discounts, and adults, children and babies alike will have to pay to obtain an ETA.
Payment is made online, using VISA or MasterCard / Apple Pay or Google Pay.
Good to know Once you have made your request and payment, you will not be entitled to a refund (even in the event of a refusal).
ETA London: period of validity, operation, limits
Here is all the additional information you may need about this ETA for London.
How long is the ETA valid for?
Once issued, the ETA is valid for 2 years. During this period, you can visit the UK as often as you like, with a time limit between short visits.
Just note that if you change your passport during this period, you will need to renew your ETA application.
What can you do with this authorization?
With this travel authorisation, you can travel to the United Kingdom and stay there. up to 6 monthsAs a tourist, a student, for business purposes or to visit family/friends.
What are the restrictions on ETA?
You may not stay in the country for more than 6 months, nor may you work there (for yourself or for a company). There are only two exceptions to this last rule: if you have a Creative Worker or if you are invited as an expert.
It is forbidden to live on site (making frequent return trips) or to get married while taking advantage of this travel authorization.
How long does it take to get it?
The process for obtaining this ETA is as follows 3 working daysbut it can be obtained more quickly.
In certain specific cases, it is possible to extend the deadline.
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What to do in London in 1 day, 2 days, 3 days, 5 days, a week?
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