In UK visa for EU citizens, things aren’t quite as simple as they used to be. Since Brexit, travelling to the UK now comes with a few new rules.
UK visa for EU citizens: Do you need one?
If you’re an EU, EEA, or Swiss citizen, you do not need a visa to visit the UK for short trips of up to 6 months. You can travel as a Standard Visitor for:
Holidays or tourism
Visiting family or friends
Business meetings or events
Short study courses (under 6 months)
However, from 2 April 2025, most EU citizens will need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before entering the UK.
The ETA is a digital travel permit—not a visa—and is required even for short visits.
What is UK ETA & how to get it?
The UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a digital travel permit required by the United Kingdom for certain visitors who would otherwise travel visa-free.
Who needs a UK ETA and who is exempt?
You need an ETA if: | You hold a passport from a country that is “visa-exempt” for the UK (so you don’t ordinarily need a visa) but you are entering for short visits. |
You’re travelling for tourism, visiting family/friends, business meetings, short courses (under visitor rules) or transiting through the UK (if you pass UK border controls). | |
You do not need an ETA if: | You already hold permission to live, work or study in the UK (e.g., a visa, settled/pre-settled status). |
You are a citizen of the UK or Ireland (Irish citizens are exempt) or hold certain other exemptions. | |
You are in airside transit only (you don’t go through UK border control) — though this exemption is subject to review. |
How to apply for UK ETA in 3 steps
Apply online. Fill in your details and upload your photo.
Pay the fee.
Wait for approval – Most get a decision within 3 days by email.
Travel with the same passport – ETA lasts 2 years or until your passport expires.
When EU citizens need a UK Visa
You’ll need to apply for a UK visa if you plan to:
Live in the UK long-term or join family members
Start a business or invest
What Is the EU Settlement Scheme?
If you lived in the UK before 31 December 2020, you may already have rights under the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS).
Those with pre-settled or settled status can stay, work, and study in the UK without needing another visa.
If you moved after that date, you must follow the new visa system.
Requirements for EU citizens visiting the UK
When entering the UK, you’ll need to show:
A valid passport (national ID cards are no longer accepted)
Proof of your visit purpose and return travel plans
Evidence you can support yourself financially during your stay
Even with your UK ETA or visa exemption, border officers may ask questions about your visit.
