You may have heard that entry requirements for both the EU and the UK are changing. While these changes are rolling out, we are working hard to ease the transition for our customers. Here’s what you need to know now.
Entry requirements for visitors to the UK are also changing. If you don’t need a visa and you are travelling for a short stay of less than six months, you will need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).
For example, EU citizens travelling to the UK for a two-week holiday will need to apply for an ETA before they travel.
Please note:
The UK has confirmed that Non-Europeans needing an ETA will require one for UK travel starting 2 January 2025 and can apply now. European visitors will need one from 2 April 2025 and can apply from 5 March 2025.
The UK is moving from physical immigration documents to a new online record called an eVisa. This means visa holders who currently use any of the following will need to make the switch:
If this affects you, it's time to take action. You'll need to switch from your physical immigration document to an eVisa at www.gov.uk/eVisa. If you have a BRP, make sure to do this before it expires on 31 December 2024. Good news - it's completely free to switch, and won't change your permission to enter or stay in the UK.
The EU is bringing in two new border management systems. The first is the Entry Exit System (EES), which will register all non-EU nationals entering 29 countries for a short stay. This will include biometric checks such as facial imaging and fingerprints.
When EES begins, Stena Line passengers entering the EU at the Hook of Holland and Cherbourg will face new checks (non-EU passengers) and longer disembarking times (all passengers).
Find out more on the Entry Exit System (EES) European Union website
The second change is the introduction of the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS). If you are from a visa-exempt non-EU country such as the UK, you will have to apply for ETIAS authorisation to enter 30 European countries for a short stay.
Please note:
You don’t have to do anything now except be aware of these upcoming changes. When the system is live, we will let you know how and where you can apply. This information will be on the FAQ section of our website and included in your pre-travel emails.
Find out more on the ETIAS European Union website