A new travel requirement will be in effect for passengers traveling from Greece to the United Kingdom regarding flights from April 2th 2025 onwards. All visitors from the European Union, including Greece, will need to apply for a UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before entering the UK. This new process is part of the UK's post-Brexit immigration changes and will affect all EU travelers, including tourists, business visitors, and those transiting through the UK.

What is the UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)?

The UK ETA is an online travel authorization for individuals traveling to the UK who do not currently need to obtain a visa or do not have a UK specific immigration status. It is required for travelers planning to stay in the UK for up to 6 months for purposes such as:

  • Tourism
  • Business meetings or conferences
  • Family visits
  • Transiting through the UK (other than direct airside transit*)
*Airside transit refers to travel where the passenger remains within the secure area of the airport (airside) without passing through border control or entering the country's domestic territory. In these cases, the individual is not considered to have officially entered the country, as they remain in an international "neutral zone" of the airport.

The ETA will be linked to the passenger’s passport and will allow multiple entries to the UK during a two-year period.

Who needs an ETA?

Travelers will require an ETA if they are:

  • A citizen of Greece or another EU country.
  • Traveling to the UK for a stay of up to 6 months (for tourism, business, etc.).
  • A non-UK or non-Irish citizen (UK and Irish citizens do not need an ETA).

For stays longer than six months, travelers may need a different type of visa. More details are available on the UK government website.

When should travelers apply for an ETA?

We recommend that travelers apply for their ETA at least within three working days before their travel date. This will ensure that they have enough time in case of any unexpected issues during the application process.

How to apply for the UK ETA?

The application process is simple and can be completed online in just a few minutes. Here’s how to apply:

  1. Visit the Official UK Government Website – Go to the UK government’s dedicated ETA application page.
  2. Complete the Application Form – Enter the required personal details, including passport information and travel plans.
  3. Pay the Fee – The ETA will incur a small fee. 
  4. Receive the ETA Approval – In most cases, approval is granted within minutes, and the ETA is electronically linked to the traveler’s passport.

What happens if a traveler does not apply for an ETA?

Travelers without a valid ETA may be denied boarding by the airline or refused entry upon arrival in the UK. It is essential to ensure the ETA is approved before travel.

Frequently asked questions

How long will the ETA be valid for?

A UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is valid for two years from the date of approval and allows multiple entries to the UK, with each stay lasting up to 6 months.

If a traveler’s passport expires within this period, a new ETA must be obtained before their next trip.

How can the status of an ETA application be checked?

The status of an ETA application can be checked online through the UK government’s website using the reference number provided during the application process.

Can a traveler apply for an ETA if they already have an existing visa or residence permit?

Visa nationals will continue to require a visa for entry to the UK. Long-term residents or individuals with specific visas should check for additional requirements . Please check the UK government website for further information.

Is the ETA required for children or minors?

Yes, children and minors traveling to the UK will also need to apply for an ETA.

Travel tips

  • Verify passport validity: Advise travelers to ensure their passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond their intended departure date.
  • Confirm application details: Remind travelers to double-check that all information provided in the ETA application matches exactly with their passport details to avoid delays.
  • Stay updated on regulations: Travel requirements may change, so regularly check the UK government’s official website for the latest updates and inform your clients accordingly.

New Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA-IL) Requirement for Travel to Israel

We would like to inform you of an important update regarding travel to Israel. The Israeli authorities have introduced the Electronic Travel Authorization for Israel (ETA-IL), which will become mandatory for travelers starting January 1, 2025. Starting from January 01, 2025, visitors from visa-exempt countries who wish to enter the state of Israel are required to obtain an ETA-IL (Electronic Travel Authorization).

Key Details:

  • Validity: The ETA-IL approval is valid for up to two years or until the applicant's current passport expires, whichever comes first.

  • Changes in Information: In case of passport renewal or changes in personal information, a new ETA travel permit is required.

  • Duration of Stay: Eligible visitors can stay for up to 90 days upon receipt of approval through the ETA-IL system.

  • Application Website: ETA-IL Official Website

Important Notes:

  • Submission Timing: Applications may be submitted at any time prior to travel. It is recommended to apply at least 72 hours before travel.

  • Minors: All travelers, regardless of age, from visa-exempt countries must obtain an ETA-IL.