Since April 2, 2025, entry rules to the United Kingdom have changed significantly. If you plan to visit Northern Ireland on your next trip to the island of Ireland, you will now need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before you depart.
This requirement has become essential for the vast majority of European travelers, including French, Belgian, Swiss, and Canadian citizens. Without a valid ETA, airlines or ferry companies may simply refuse you boarding.
Planning a road trip between Dublin, Belfast, and the Giant’s Causeway? Wondering if this authorization is mandatory, how much it costs, or how to get it? Here’s everything you need to know before you go.
The ETA is a digital travel authorization issued by the UK government. It is not a visa but a pre-screening process that allows British authorities to verify traveler information before arrival.
This authorization is directly linked to your passport. At boarding or upon arrival, transport companies and UK authorities automatically check that your ETA is valid.
The ETA allows multiple stays in the UK, each lasting up to six months, for purposes such as:
It is valid for two years, or until your passport expires if that happens sooner.
Northern Ireland is part of the United Kingdom. Therefore, the same entry rules apply as in England, Scotland, or Wales.
Since April 2, 2025, French citizens and, more broadly, EU nationals must obtain an ETA before traveling to Northern Ireland.
Specifically, if you plan to visit:
you will need a valid ETA before departure.
The ETA now applies to most travelers who could previously enter the UK without a visa, including:
Each traveler must have their own ETA, including children and infants.
Certain categories of travelers do not need an ETA:
The application is straightforward and usually takes just a few minutes.
Once approved, the authorization is electronically linked to your passport. There is no need to print anything.
Since April 9, 2026, the official ETA fee is set at £20.
Beware of many private websites offering to apply on your behalf, sometimes charging two or three times this amount.
Most applications are processed within minutes or a few hours.
However, the UK government recommends allowing up to three working days, as some applications may require additional checks.
It’s best to apply a few days before your trip rather than waiting until the last minute.
The border between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland remains completely open. There are no border posts or routine checks when crossing by car.
However, this does not mean the ETA is not required.
By entering Northern Ireland, you are legally entering UK territory. You must comply with UK entry conditions, even without physical border controls.
If stopped by UK authorities, you must be able to show a valid ETA.
If your trip is limited exclusively to the Republic of Ireland (Dublin, Cork, Galway, Kerry, Connemara, etc.), you do not need an ETA.
However, if your itinerary includes any visit to Northern Ireland, even for just one day, the authorization becomes mandatory.
Before you leave, make sure to check:
Proper preparation will help you avoid any unpleasant surprises at boarding or upon arrival in the UK.
