Ferry at pier along sandy beach.

The New Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) When Travelling to Northern Ireland

Since 08 January 2025 many travellers to the UK, including Northern Ireland, will require an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). This will also affect travellers crossing the border from the Republic into Northern Ireland.

What is an Electronic Travel Authorisation?

The new Electronic Travel Authorisation is a digital travel document. It is digitally linked to your passport so once you have your ETA it does not require you to carry any extra documentation.

According to the UK government it’s purpose is to enhance border security and streamline the entry process. Once received an ETA is valid for 2 years. It allows you to visit for up to 6 months at a time.

For anyone familiar with the ESTA requirement for entry to the USA, the UK’s ETA is broadly similar.

Who needs an ETA?

Anyone travelling to or transiting through the UK who does not already need a travel visa.

From 08 January 2025 non-European nationals will need an ETA. This includes countries such as Australia, Canada, New Zealand, USA, most Latin American and many Asian and African countries. The full list can be found on the UK government website here

From 05 March 2025 travellers from EU countries with the exception of Ireland will need an ETA.

Who does not need an ETA?

  • Anyone from a country that already requires a visa.
  • Holders of Irish or British passports.
  • Anyone with permission to live, work or study in the UK.

How do you apply for an ETA?

The application process is online or via the UK ETA app.

It appears that via the app is the preferred method of the UK government.  Online instructions direct you to the app ahead of the online application. (The official gov.uk website even tells you to ask a friend or family member if you can use their phone if your own is not suitable)

To see the online application page click here.

The app can be downloaded in the normal way from the App Store  or on Google Play.

When completing the application you will need:

  • Your passport.
  • Your contact information (email).
  • A valid passport-type photo.
  • A method of payment.

Approval normally takes from a few minutes up to 3 days. Once your application is approved you will receive a confirmation email. As your ETA is digitally linked to your passport there is no need to print the confirmation.

See the video below for instructions on how to apply from the UK Home Office.

How much does the ETA cost?

The cost is £10 (approx €11 or US$12)

What does this mean for anyone on holiday in Northern Ireland?

If you are landing at an airport or port within Northern Ireland the ETA check will be part of the routine passport checks.

Many holiday makers who visit Northern Ireland actually arrive at Dublin airport and travel north from there. It is likely that many will be unaware of the need for an ETA. As there are no border checks between the Republic and Northern Ireland it is thought that this will make ETA checks virtually impossible to implement. However if you are planning on visiting Northern Ireland and arriving in the Republic it is best to have your ETA in place to avoid any potential issues.

Advice for Ireland by Bike Customers

If you plan on doing our Causeway Coast Bike Tour then you will need to apply for an ETA. If you arrive at an airport outside the UK the chances of you ever being asked for it are almost non-existent, however it is best to have it just in case.

If you are renting bicycles from Ireland by Bike and plan on crossing the border into Northern Ireland as many of our clients do then you also need an ETA. Once again it is extremely unlikely that you will ever be asked for proof,  but our advice is to have it in place before you travel.

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