UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)
Smooth Sailing Ahead: Important Updates on UK Travel Requirements for Your Cruise!
As we chart courses for exciting adventures, it's crucial to stay informed about any changes that might affect your journey. For those of you with cruises that start in, or visit the UK, there's a new requirement you'll need to be aware of: the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).
Here at Novak Adventures, we're committed to ensuring your voyages are as smooth as possible. So, let's dive into what the ETA is and how you can easily secure one for your upcoming UK cruise.
What Exactly is a UK ETA?
Think of the ETA as a digital permission slip for entering the United Kingdom. Officially called an Electronic Travel Authorisation, it's a new border requirement for travelers who don't already have a UK visa. This visa waiver is electronically linked to your passport, adding an extra layer of security checks before you even begin your trip to the UK.
Who Needs an ETA for UK Travel?
This is a key question! Starting in January 2025, almost everyone planning to visit the UK will need an ETA. The only exceptions are British and Irish citizens, and those who already hold a valid UK visa for other purposes like work or study.
So, if you're joining us for a fantastic cruise that either starts in the UK or includes a stop at a UK port, and you don't have a UK visa, you'll need to obtain an ETA. Remember, you must travel using the same passport you used when you applied for your ETA.
How Do You Get Your UK ETA? It's Simpler Than You Think!
The UK government has made the ETA application process farily user-friendly. The easiest way is by downloading the app appropriate to your smartphone:
If you don't have access to a smartphone, you can also apply online through the official GOV.UK website.
All the details can be found here:
Key Things to Know About the UK ETA:
- Validity: An approved ETA is valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
- Multiple Entries: Good news! Your ETA allows for multiple trips to the UK for stays of up to 6 months at a time within that two-year (or passport expiry) period.
- Cost: Each ETA will cost £16 per person.
- No Exemptions (Mostly): Unless you hold a UK or Irish passport or have another valid UK visa, everyone, regardless of age, will need an ETA to enter the UK.
- Crucial for Cruises: Even if your cruise only stops at a UK port and you don't plan to disembark, you still need an ETA to board the cruise. The cruise line won't be able to have you onboard in UK waters without one. This also applies if you are simply transiting through a UK airport, even if you don't leave the airport.
- Applies to All UK Nations: Whether your cruise visits ports in England (like Southampton or Dover), Scotland (like Kirkwall or Greenock), Wales (like Holyhead or Fishguard), or Northern Ireland (like Belfast), an ETA is necessary as these are all part of the UK. This also includes visits to UK islands like the Isle of Wight or the Shetland Islands.
- Separate from Other European Requirements: An ETA is specifically for the UK.
- Processing Time: While you should receive your ETA within three working days, it's always best to apply well in advance of your travel dates to avoid any last-minute hiccups.
What Happens if You Don't Have an ETA?
Unfortunately, if you arrive in the UK or try to board a flight or cruise to the UK without a valid ETA, you will not be allowed to fly, board your cruise, or enter the country. It's essential to get this sorted before your journey.
Our Recommendation:
We strongly advise all our valued customers with upcoming UK cruises in 2025 and beyond to familiarize themselves with these new requirements and apply for their ETAs as soon as they are eligible. Don't wait until the last minute!
At Novak Adventures, we're here to help make your travel dreams a reality, hassle-free. If you have any questions about the new UK ETA requirements and how they might affect your cruise, please don't hesitate to reach out to our expert team. We're always happy to assist you in navigating these details so you can focus on the excitement of your upcoming adventure!
