Since April 2, citizens from 83 countries, including French and European citizens, must comply with a new requirement to travel to the United Kingdom: the obligation to hold an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). While the initial cost was 10 pounds sterling (approximately 12 €), it has already been raised to 16 pounds sterling (around 18.70 €), representing a 60% increase in just a week. Good news for the British public treasury, but bad news for travelers’ wallets!
As of April 2, 2025, to enter the United Kingdom, European nationals, including the French, must now possess an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) in addition to their passport. This new requirement comes with a significant increase in fees, which have gone from 10 pounds sterling to 16 pounds sterling, representing a 60% increase in just one week. This could dampen Europeans’ desire to travel to the United Kingdom.
A new barrier to entry #
The ETA has become mandatory for citizens of 83 countries, including those from the European Union, making access to the country much more regulated. For those who have always loved crossing the Channel for a weekend in London, this could be a blow. Previously, a simple passport was enough to pass through customs. Now, they must pay an extra fee, which, although valid for two years, could cause some travelers to reconsider their plans.
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A rapid increase in fees #
On April 9, 2025, just a week after its launch, the ETA saw its cost rise to 16 pounds sterling, around 18.70 €. This new pricing is part of a growing temptation from the British authorities to offset the cost of an increasingly expensive life for tourists. This may cool the enthusiasm of some seeking a London getaway, often criticized for its high costs and apparent insecurity.
Beware of scams #
As the number of ETA applications increases, British authorities are drawing travelers’ attention to the dangers posed by fraudulent sites. Entering “ETA United Kingdom” into a search engine may lead to unofficial platforms that do not hesitate to charge exorbitant rates while retrieving sensitive user data. To avoid potential inconveniences, it is imperative to visit only the official site gov.uk or use the official UK ETA app.
Financial difficulties in the face of rising fares #
In an age where traveling is becoming increasingly expensive, this increase in costs for the ETA could become a major obstacle for many Europeans. The rise in travel expenses is not an isolated phenomenon, as illustrated by an article discussing the new travel rates affecting other destinations. For those wishing to cross the Channel, it is now crucial to account for this new expense in their budget.
Preparing your trip with caution #
In this context, it is essential for travelers to prepare their stay in the United Kingdom carefully. Before venturing into this country, it may be wise to consult reliable resources about preparing a trip such as how to move to Canada, to get in the mindset for departure. Whether familiarizing oneself with overseas travel requirements or checking border crossing conditions, being informed can make all the difference.
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The details of the ETA #
To obtain the ETA, one simply needs to visit the official site and fill out an online application. It has never been easier, but with this simplicity comes the need to be aware of the fees and timelines. For those who find themselves stuck during their travels, consulting a guide like what to do if your credit card is blocked abroad could also prove very helpful.
