Northern Ireland - Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) • Go-to-Ireland.com

As of January 8, 2025, a new rule has been introduced for travelers to the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland: the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). This measure is designed to reinforce security controls and facilitate the management of passenger flows. Without it, it would be impossible to set foot in Northern Ireland! In other words, this new measure is a must for any trip to Ulster! Are you at a loss? Don’t know how to apply for an ETA? Don’t panic, here’s everything you need to know about the ETA, who needs one, and how to apply to travel to Northern Ireland.

What is ETA?

The essential document to travel to Northern Ireland

The Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is a compulsory digital authorization for nationals of certain countries to enter the UK, including Northern Ireland, for short stays (up to six months). This measure was introduced to reinforce security and border control, without requiring a visa for the travelers concerned.

In other words, the ETA is an electronic document which must be linked to your passport and authorizes your entry into the UK for tourist, business or short-term study purposes. It is similar to the ESTA for the USA, although it applies to the UK and Northern Ireland.

Which passengers are affected by ETA?

The new ETA rule applies to nationals of over 50 countries, including the USA, Canada and some European countries. However, this requirement does not affect everyone equally. Here are the categories of travelers affected:

Travellers from outside the United Kingdom and the European Union :

- Citizens of the USA, Canada, certain Asian countries, the Middle East and Africa will need to obtain an ETA if they plan to travel to Northern Ireland or the UK for tourism, business or other purposes.
- Travellers from these countries will also need to apply for an ETA even if they are in transit, i.e. if they remain at the airport without leaving the transit zone, en route to another destination.

Citizens of the European Union, the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland:

- Citizens of the EU, EEA and Switzerland are not affected by this requirement. Thanks to the free movement of people, they can enter the UK and Northern Ireland without having to apply for an ETA.
- However, European nationals with another nationality (e.g. dual nationality with a non-EU country) should check whether ETA is required according to their status.

British and Irish citizens :

- British and Irish citizens are exempt from the ETA. They continue to enjoy unrestricted freedom of movement.

American citizens :

US citizens are also affected by this new ETA requirement for travel to the UK and Northern Ireland. Although the USA has special agreements with many countries, including the UK, this new measure now requires all American travelers to obtain an electronic authorization before departure. Whether you are in transit, on a tourist trip, or on business, the ETA is mandatory for all short-term stays (less than six months).

The procedure for Americans is similar to that for other travelers: an online application is required, and fees must be paid before authorization is granted. Once the ETA has been approved, it is electronically linked to your passport. It’s important to apply in advance, although the process is generally quick. U.S. travelers will also need to present their passport when boarding, as the ETA will be checked by the airline or British immigration authorities.

How do I apply for ETA for Northern Ireland?

Applying for an ETA is a quick and easy process, carried out entirely online. Here are the steps to follow to obtain your travel authorization:

Go to the official website: Visit the UK government website or other government-designated platforms to submit your application.
Filling in the form: You’ll need to provide personal information such as your name, date of birth, nationality, passport details and travel details (departure dates, etc.).
Paying the fee: Once you’ve completed the form, you’ll need to pay the fee for the ETA application. These fees may vary according to the length of your stay or the type of travel, but generally speaking, the rate is modest.
Receive the ETA: Once you have submitted your application and made payment, the ETA will be issued as an electronic document. You will receive the authorization by e-mail, usually within a few minutes or hours.
Checking when boarding: When you get to the airport, all you need to do is present your passport. The ETA is linked to your passport electronically, and the airline or border authorities will automatically check its status.

When should I apply for an ETA, and how long is it valid? We recommend that you apply for your ETA well in advance of your departure. Although the process is quick, it’s best to apply at least 1 month before your trip to avoid any last-minute surprises.

Once granted, the ETA remains valid for two years or until the expiry date of your passport, whichever comes first. If you obtain a new authorization as part of an application to extend your stay or change your status, you may need to apply for a new ETA.

Why was this new measure introduced?

The UK has introduced ETA with the aim of better controlling travelers entering its territory, particularly post-Brexit, and strengthening national security. This system enables travelers to be screened upstream and potential threats to be identified more easily, while speeding up the entry process.

In addition, ETA enables the UK authorities to better manage the number of people visiting the country for temporary stays, reducing the risks associated with illegal immigration.