Cruise tourism is rising in popularity, with the UK a top port call. In 2024, the UK cruise market produced $852 million in revenue. However, certain changes apply to entry starting in 2025. Currently, travelers to the UK must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before arrival. Correspondingly, for cruise passengers in particular, this extra step can significantly impact their holiday.
ETA to Enter the UK
To clarify, a UK ETA is a digital entry clearance, not a visa. Specifically, it pre-screens visitors before they travel, aims to tighten border security, and speed up arrivals. Overall, the ETA covers visits up to six months for tourism, family visits, study, or business.
In addition, it is valid for two years or until your passport expires—whichever comes first. Correspondingly, you can use it for multiple entries. Once visitors receive approval, their ETA shares an electronic link to their passport.
Think of it as your boarding pass for UK border control. Without it, you won’t be given clearance to enter—regardless of your travel plans.
Who Needs The UK ETA?
The ETA applies to non-visa nationals—travelers from countries like the USA, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. From April 2025, most European visitors already need one.
You do not need an ETA if you are:
- A British or Irish citizen.
- A UK visa holder.
- A resident with settled or pre-settled status.
- An Irish resident entering the UK from within Ireland.
- A passenger transiting airside without passing through UK border control.
Meanwhile, for everyone else, including cruise passengers making even a brief stop, the ETA is a must.
Timeline for ETA Implementation
The UK rolled out the ETA in phases:
- October 2023: Qatar nationals first to apply.
- February 2024: Expanded to Gulf Cooperation Council countries and Jordan.
- January 2025: All non-European visa-exempt nationals required.
- April 2025: European visitors (except Irish citizens) join the scheme.
The government fee cost rose from £10 to £16 in April 2025. To avoid last-minute problems, it’s best to apply early.
How to Apply
In summary, the ETA application is simple and entirely online. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Visit the EVS platform. Notably, it simplifies the ETA application process so you can avoid going through complex visa processes.
At EVS, your personal and travel information remains safe and secure with its strict data protection regulations. Moreover, it provides you with expert guidance and seamless support to ensure a stress-free application journey.
Step 2: Upload a passport photo. It must have a plain, light-colored background without any shadows or objects behind you.
Step 3: Upload a scan or photo of your passport information page. Ensure the full passport photo page is inside the frame, including the two lines of numbers and letters at the bottom. Additionally, the passport must be valid for at least six months upon entering and exiting the UK.
Step 4: Provide your personal information:
- Contact details
- Home address
- Employment information
- Citizenship information
- Criminal history, if any
Overall, make sure that the information you provide matches what is on your passport.
Step 5: Review and confirm the information on your application. In particular, you can pay using suitable electronic payment methods such as Apple Pay, Google Pay, credit card, or debit card.
Step 6: Pay the application fee.
Step 7: Receive your UK ETA. Next, you will receive an email with the decision. The authorization will be linked to your passport digitally.
Once approved, the ETA is valid for multiple visits over a two-year period, or until your passport expires. Because mistakes can delay approval, make sure to triple-check all entries before you submit.
“Anyone sailing to U.K., once you gotten the ETA visa, I suggest saving the email in a folder, print it out or screen shot the approval,” cautioned cruise passenger Andrea Ruth on Facebook.
Ready to get started with your application? Then click the button below to obtain your ETA.
Implications for Cruisers
Overall, cruise passengers face a unique challenge. Specifically, even if you stay onboard, you may still need an ETA. As such, some UK ports require pre-clearance for all passengers on arriving ships.
For example, at Southampton or Liverpool, cruise lines can refuse boarding if you lack valid travel documents. Furthermore, this applies to every traveler, including infants.
In addition, cruise lines will check your ETA before departure. As such, if you don’t have one, then you could be denied boarding—with no refund.
Since the ETA lasts two years, then frequent cruisers benefit from applying once and re-using it.
Timing Tips for Smooth Sailing
Overall, the application itself takes minutes. But don’t risk delays—apply at least a month before sailing. Generally, the UK government recommends having your ETA before you leave home, even if your first port is outside the UK.
Moreover, keep your passport details consistent throughout the application. If you renew your passport, then you’ll need a new ETA.
Cruise-Specific Scenarios
If you are embarking abroad and are visiting the UK, then you need an ETA before boarding your ship.
Meanwhile, if you’re embarking in Northern Ireland and traveling within the Common Travel Area, an ETA may not be necessary. Still, it’s best to check before departure.
Notably, there’s no appeal process if authorities deny your ETA application. Instead, you must apply for a UK visa, which takes longer and costs more.
Overall, for multiple voyages, a valid ETA covers any number of UK visits for two years.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Leaving it too late: Cruise lines may bar last-minute applicants from boarding.
- Assuming exemptions: Even “stay-on-ship” passengers may need approval.
Why This Matters for Non-European Travelers
For non-European cruise passengers, this is a major shift. Previously, many could enter the UK with just a passport. Now, digital pre-screening applies—even for a single day ashore.
Additionally, the new rules bring the UK in line with systems like the US ESTA or Canada’s eTA. In addition, they also make cruise itineraries more predictable for border staff.
Final Boarding Call
Overall, the ETA is essential for travel to the United Kingdom. Correspondingly, for cruise passengers, it’s as vital as your passport. As such, apply early, keep it valid, and carry proof to ensure smooth entry and a seamless journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do children need a UK ETA?
Yes. Every passenger, regardless of age, needs their own ETA.
If my cruise only passes UK waters, do I need an ETA?
No, unless you dock at a UK port or pass through border control.
Can authorities still deny me entry even with a valid ETA?
Yes. Notably, the final decision rests with UK Border Force officers.
How long does ETA approval take?
Often minutes, but allow up to three working days.
Will my cruise line remind me to apply?
Many do, but responsibility rests with the passenger.
Which countries are eligible for the travel authorization?
In particular, business travelers from the following countries can apply for an ETA:
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Argentina
- Australia
- The Bahamas
- Bahrain
- Barbados
- Belize
- Botswana
- Brazil
- Brunei
- Canada
- Chile
- Costa Rica
- Grenada
- Guatemala
- Guyana
- Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (including British National overseas)
- Israel
- Japan
- Kiribati
- Kuwait
- Macao Special Administrative Region
- Malaysia
- Maldives
- Marshall Islands
- Mauritius
- Mexico
- Federated States of Micronesia
- Nauru
- New Zealand
- Nicaragua
- Oman
- Palau
- Panama
- Papua New Guinea
- Paraguay
- Peru
- Qatar
- Samoa
- Saudi Arabia
- Seychelles
- Singapore
- Solomon Islands
- South Korea
- St. Kitts and Nevis
- St. Lucia
- St. Vincent and the Grenadines
- Taiwan
- Toga
- Tuvalu
- United Arab Emirates
- United States
- Uruguay
Meanwhile, applications have opened for European travelers visiting the UK on or after April 2, 2025:
- Andorra
- Austria
- Belgium
- Bulgaria
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Czechia
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Monaco
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania
- San Marino
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Vatican City
In addition, this also covers eligible dual citizenships.
Are there non-EU European countries that need a UK ETA?
Yes. Specifically, these include Andorra, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Monaco, Norway, San Marino, Switzerland, and the Vatican City.
Photo by Ray Harrington on Unsplash
