London, England (UK), March 2024; Credit: Jazmin Campbell

The European Consumer Centre (EEC) Luxembourg has issued a statement drawing attention to the new travel permit requirement imposed by the United Kingdom (UK) on European travellers.

As of Wednesday 2 April 2025, European visitors to the UK must now purchase an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before crossing the UK border.

According to EEC Luxembourg, the process to obtain an ETA is simple, paperless and can be completed directly on the official website of the UK government. The current application fee is £10, but this will increase to £16 starting Wednesday 9 April 2025.

EEC Luxembourg has advised against using unofficial websites. When searching for "ETA application" on search engines, one may come across unofficial commercial websites at the top of the results. These websites often offer to process applications for additional fees, well above the official rate. Although this process may not be fraudulent, it lacks transparency for consumers, noted EEC Luxembourg. The latter advised consumers to remain vigilant when searching online and to always opt for official channels.

EEC Luxembourg also warned that without a valid ETA, European travellers will be denied entry to the UK. Airlines may also refuse boarding to travellers who are unable to present this authorisation. As this denial of boarding will be considered as justified, consumers will not be entitled to any refunds or compensation. To avoid any inconvenience, it is crucial to complete this process well before departure, said EEC Luxembourg.

The consumer centre noted that currently, no action is required for British citizens wishing to travel to Europe. However, the process for the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) travel authorisation is underway to establish a system of reciprocity by the last quarter of 2026. It will then become a condition of entry for visa-exempt nationals.

Consumers may contact the EEC Luxembourg for more information or any questions regarding cross-border purchases.

The European Consumer Centre GIE Luxemburg (ECC Luxembourg) is part of a network of 29 European Consumer Centres in the European Union (EU), as well as in Iceland and Norway. The ECCNet also cooperates with the UK International Consumer Centre.