What is a UK ETA for Italian Citizens?

The United Kingdom’s Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is a digital entry requirement for visitors from countries that previously enjoyed visa-free travel to the UK, including Italy. The ETA system is being rolled out in stages worldwide and will be made available to all visitors to the UK who do not currently have a UK immigration status or who do not require a visa for short visits. The ETA for the UK system is opening to eligible travelers from Italy on March 5th, 2025, for those planning to travel to the UK on or after April 2nd, 2025.

An ETA grants travelers permission to enter the UK for short visits, up to six months, for specific purposes, including:

  • Tourism, visiting family and friends, specific business purposes, or short-term study for up to six months.
  • Traveling to the UK using the Creative Worker visa concession for up to three months.
  • Permitted paid engagements.
  • Transit through the UK even if the traveler will not go through border control.

The UK government is making improvements to the digital immigration system and Italian citizens who did not previously require a visa to travel to the UK will need to apply for an ETA for travel starting April 2nd. The ETA system pre-screens travelers before they travel to the UK to ensure they meet the entry requirements. This helps to improve border security by pre-screening travelers before they arrive in the UK.

Statistics on Italian Visitors to the United Kingdom

Citizens of Italy are an important part of the UK travel industry. Below are some statistics on visitors from Italy to the UK.

  • In 2023, travelers from Italy made 1.7 million visits to the UK and had a total expenditure of £972.5 million.
  • 40% of visitors from Italy are aged under 35
  • 60% of holiday visitors have visited the UK before.

Advantages of the UK ETA

The UK ETA system offers several benefits to citizens of countries like Italy, including:

Quick and easy application process

The UK ETA system allows travelers to complete their application online, which eliminates the need to visit a consulate or embassy. The ETA requires minimal paperwork, and the process is straightforward and user-friendly.

Cost-effective travel requirement

The ETA for the UK application fee is affordable and cost-effective compared to traditional visas. This ensures that travelers can meet entry requirements without financial burden.

Multi-entry validity

Once approved, the UK ETA is valid for multiple entries during its validity period. This flexibility is ideal for frequent travelers, as it allows them to visit the UK multiple times without reapplying.

Short processing time

ETA for the UK applications are typically processed quickly, often within a few days, enabling last-minute travelers to secure authorization efficiently.

Wide range of permitted activities

The ETA covers multiple purposes of travel, such as tourism, visiting family and friends, business meetings, short-term study, creative work, and even transit. This makes the ETA versatile for various travel needs.

UK ETA Eligibility Criteria for Italian Citizens

The UK ETA introduces specific requirements that Italian citizens must meet to obtain this travel authorization. Below are the eligibility criteria for Italian citizens applying for a UK ETA:

  • Stays of up to six months The ETA is designed for short stays of up to six months. Applicants may be asked to provide proof of their intent to leave the UK before the six-month period ends, such as a return ticket or onward travel plans.
  • Applicants have no criminal record Applicants must have a clean criminal history and must not pose any threat to public safety or security in the UK. This includes no previous immigration violations.
  • Valid passport The ETA is electronically linked to the traveler’s passport. Applicants must, therefore, hold an Italian passport that is valid for the entire duration of their stay in the UK.
  • Travelers are from an eligible country Citizens of Italy, as a visa-exempt country, are eligible to apply for a UK ETA. Citizens of countries not covered by the ETA system will need to apply for a visa.
  • Applicants are not seeking to work in the UK The ETA does not permit individuals to undertake employment. Travelers must demonstrate that their purpose aligns with the allowed activities, such as tourism or business-related visits.

UK ETA Application Process

Applying for a UK ETA from Italy is a straightforward process. Italian citizens can complete their application completely online by following the steps below:

1

Complete the UK ETA application form

Applicants can complete the online application form on our website. The application will need to include:

  • Personal information.
  • Passport information (ensure your passport is valid for the duration of the planned stay in the UK).
  • Travel itinerary, including the purpose of your visit.
  • Contact information, including a valid email address.
  • Answers to security questions.
  • Supporting documentation, including a copy of their passport and a personal photograph.
2

Pay the required fees

Once the application form is completed, applicants will be prompted to pay the application fee. The payment process is done online via secure methods and is a one-time cost. It is important to review the payment details before proceeding to avoid any errors.

3

Receive your ETA

After submitting the application and payment, the ETA will typically be processed quickly. Applicants will receive their UK ETA by email, usually within a few days. It is important to check the email address provided in the application form and keep the approval document for reference when traveling.

The UK ETA will be electronically linked to your passport, and there is no need to carry any physical documents. However, having a printed copy or a digital copy on your phone might be useful for reference at the border.

Requirements for UK ETA Application

When applying for a UK ETA from Italy, applicants need to provide specific documentation. Without this documentation, the application is likely to be rejected. The required documents include:

A valid passport

Applicants require a valid passport issued by a country eligible in the ETA scheme, such as Italy. The passport must be in good condition and valid for the duration of their stay in the UK. The ETA will be electronically linked to the passport provided in the application.

A valid passport

A personal photograph

Applicants need to upload a recent passport-sized photograph as part of the application process. The photo must meet standard passport photo requirements, such as ensuring it reflects the applicant’s true appearance, is in color, and the applicant has a neutral expression.

A personal photograph

A valid payment method

A valid payment method is needed to pay the UK ETA application fee. The payment can be made securely online using a credit or debit card.

A valid payment method

A working email address

A valid email address is required to receive the UK ETA approval. After submitting the application and payment, the ETA approval will be sent to the email address provided. Ensure to check your inbox and spam folder for the confirmation email.

A working email address

UK ETA Fees and Processing Time

The UK ETA is a cost-effective way for Italian citizens to travel to the UK. The total cost for the UK ETA is £78. This fee covers both the official government charges for the ETA application as well as our professional service fees. As service providers, we facilitate the application process, ensuring that the procedure is simple and quick for you.

ETA applications are usually processed within 3 business days. In most cases, applicants will receive their approval via email promptly after submission of their application and payment. However, it is advisable to apply well in advance of travel to ensure there are no delays. Make sure all the information provided is accurate and complete to avoid any processing delays.

UK ETA Validity and Duration of Stay

The UK ETA is usually valid for two years from the date of approval. If the applicant’s passport expires before the two-year validity period ends, the ETA will also expire, and travelers must apply for a new ETA with their renewed passport. During the validity period, travelers can make multiple visits to the UK without needing to reapply and can stay for up to six months per visit.

UK ETA: Renewal and Extension Options

The UK ETA offers a convenient entry option for Italian citizens, but it has specific limitations regarding renewals and extensions. The UK ETA cannot be renewed under any circumstances. Once the two-year validity period ends or the linked passport expires, travelers must apply for a new ETA.

The UK ETA also does not allow extensions beyond the permitted six-month duration per visit. Travelers are required to leave the UK before their authorized stay ends. If Italian citizens wish to remain in the UK for a period exceeding the six months allowed under the ETA, they must explore alternative visa options, such as a Standard Visitor visa or a Family visa.

UK ETA Application: Refused vs. Rejected – What to Do Next

The most important difference between a refused and rejected application is that an application that has been rejected has been deemed invalid. This can happen because there was an error with your application, such as incorrect information on your application form, not paying the correct fee or missing information. If your application is rejected, you will be told the reason why and given the opportunity to submit a new application.

If your application is refused, this usually means you don’t meet the eligibility criteria. You cannot appeal the decision or apply for an ETA again. Your application may be refused if you have a serious criminal conviction or previous immigration violations. If your application is refused, you will need to apply for a UK visa instead.

Traveling with a UK ETA: Important Details

When traveling with a UK ETA, there are several important details to be aware of:

  • The connection between the ETA and your passport The UK ETA is electronically linked to the passport you use when applying. This means that you must travel with the same passport that was used in your application. If you hold multiple passports, ensure that the passport linked to the UK ETA is the one you use for travel. If you change your passport before or after your ETA is issued, you will need to apply for a new ETA with the updated passport details.
  • Travel and entry process Upon arrival in the UK, border control officers will check your passport and verify that the details match those on your ETA. The ETA will be electronically checked in the system, and you may be asked to show evidence of your travel plans, such as a return ticket or proof of sufficient funds for your stay. You may also be required to undergo a brief interview at the border, particularly if there are any concerns about your travel purpose. Biometric checks (fingerprints or facial recognition) may be part of the entry process for further verification.
  • Traveling within the UK Once you pass through UK border control, you are free to travel within the country for the duration of your stay, as long as it is within the terms of the ETA. You do not need additional documentation to move between cities or regions within the UK. Be aware that if you leave the UK and plan to re-enter during the same trip, your ETA is valid for multiple entries during its two-year validity period.

FAQ

No, Italian citizens are not guaranteed entry into the UK even if they have a valid ETA. The ETA allows you to travel to the UK, but the final decision on entry is made by border control officers upon arrival in the UK.

A UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) is a new entry requirement for travelers from visa-exempt countries, including EU nations, starting in 2025. The ETA is required for all travelers, including infants and children if they are from visa-exempt countries like Italy. Each child must have their own ETA linked to their passport.

EU citizens do not need to apply for a visa for short-term visits to the UK, for purposes such as tourism, but for visits on or after April 2nd, 2025, will need to apply for a UK ETA. For stays longer than six months or to visit the UK for purposes such as work, you will need to apply for a UK visa. Ensure you keep up to date with the latest visa news before you travel.

The UK ETA is only valid for entry to the UK. It does not grant you the right to travel to other Schengen Area countries. You will need to follow the specific entry requirements for those countries.

UK ETAs are only valid for stays of up to six months. Overstaying your UK ETA may result in penalties, including fines, deportation, or future entry bans. It’s important to leave the UK before your ETA expires.