UK hikes electronic travel authorisation fee 25%: grace period ends

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• What the announced 25% increase actually means
• Why ministers are increasing the fee
• Who will be affected — and who may be exempt
  • Check exemptions and eligibility
• When the fee change takes effect and transitional rules
• How to apply for an ETA — practical steps
  • Tips to avoid delays
• Impact on travelers, airlines and tourism businesses
• Questions travelers are likely to ask
• What to watch next

Britain is moving ahead with a planned rise to its Electronic Travel Authorisation charge, a shift that will affect many short-term visitors and frequent flyers. The government says the increase comes as an initial transitional period ends, prompting travelers, travel companies and airports to update plans and budgets.

What the announced 25% increase actually means

The government has announced a 25% increase in the fee for the Electronic Travel Authorisation, commonly called the ETA. Officials frame the change as part of routine adjustments to the scheme after an initial roll-out phase.

• Who pays: Most non-UK visitors who require an ETA before travel.
• What changes: The application charge will rise by a quarter of its current price.
• Why this matters: The cost per trip will be higher for repeat visitors and for travel businesses that buy bulk authorisations.

Why ministers are increasing the fee

Officials point to administrative costs, digital platform maintenance and border security funding as factors. The government also says the move helps sustain the ETA service as demand grows.

• Cover ongoing technology and infrastructure expenses.
• Offset rising operational costs linked to processing and fraud prevention.
• Bring revenues more in line with scheme usage after the launch phase.

Who will be affected — and who may be exempt

The majority of short-stay travelers who currently apply online will see the higher fee. Some categories and travelers may remain outside the ETA requirement.

• Frequent flyers and business visitors who apply regularly will feel the increase most.
• Transit passengers should check if they need an ETA for their route.
• Citizens of countries with different visas or residency rights may be unaffected.

Check exemptions and eligibility

Travelers should consult official guidance to confirm whether they need an ETA. Immigration and visa rules are separate and may still apply.

When the fee change takes effect and transitional rules

The rise follows an initial grace period after the ETA launch. That period allowed smoother transitions for travelers and businesses. With the grace phase ending, the fee increase is scheduled to begin shortly after the government confirms the implementation date.

• Apply early if you have travel planned around the change.
• Double-check your ETA status before booking non-refundable travel.
• Travel agents should update pricing and advisories for clients.

How to apply for an ETA — practical steps

Applying remains a digital process. The basics are the same, but travelers should allow extra time during any surge in applications.

1. Visit the official government ETA website to start your application.
2. Prepare your passport information and a payment method.
3. Fill in the online form carefully and submit supporting details if requested.
4. Save confirmation and check email for approval before travel.

Tips to avoid delays

• Use a current passport and make sure details match exactly.
• Apply well in advance of your flight or ferry departure.
• Keep proof of approval and any reference numbers accessible when you travel.

Impact on travelers, airlines and tourism businesses

The fee increase will have ripple effects across the travel industry. Airlines, tour operators and booking platforms may adjust prices or offer new advisory notices.

• Budget-conscious travelers may factor the higher ETA cost into trip planning.
• Business travel budgets could rise, especially for frequent short trips.
• Airports and carriers should expect customer questions and extra support needs.

Questions travelers are likely to ask

• Can I still travel without an ETA? Check eligibility—some visitors need visas instead.
• Will the fee rise again? Future changes are possible as the scheme evolves.
• How long is an ETA valid? Confirm validity periods on the official guidance when applying.

What to watch next

Look for formal guidance from the immigration department for the exact start date and any further administrative details. Travel advisors and corporate travel teams will need to update policies to reflect the new cost.

Plan ahead, check official sources, and allow extra time when making ETA applications to avoid last-minute issues.