Location: Dublin, Ireland
Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)
The UK recently launched an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system, which is being rolled out incrementally and will apply to most visitors who do not need a visa for short stays in the UK, or those who do not already have a UK immigration status prior to traveling. More information on the ETA program is available at Guidance on ETA .
Effective January 8, 2025, all U.S. citizens who do not reside in Ireland transiting or traveling to the UK (including Northern Ireland) for tourism, family visits, business meetings, conferences, or short-term study for 6 months or less will require an ETA prior to travel. U.S. citizens can apply for ETAs as of November 27, 2024. The application fee is £10, and an ETA is valid for two years.
To underscore, this is a major change to the UK’s travel regulations. All non-resident U.S. citizens in Ireland, including children, will be required to have a valid ETA when traveling to UK, even when traveling by land between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.
U.S. citizens resident in Ireland should be prepared to offer proof of their status if asked by UK officials. Examples of acceptable documents can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/electronic-travel-authorisation-eta-residents-of-ireland
Please note children under the age of 16 will not be required to show proof of residency.
For more information about requirements for travel to the UK, please visit: https://uk.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-services/security-and-travel-information/
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