Mandatory UK ETA for citizens of the Netherlands in 2025: How to get it fast

Starting in April 2025, travel to the UK is changing significantly for Dutch citizens with the mandatory Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).

This means that travelers from the Netherlands can't visit the United Kingdom without the ETA, and will be denied entry at the border without one.

What is the UK ETA, and why do Dutch people need it?

The UK ETA is not a traditional visa, it's an electronic permission to enter the United Kingdom.

Dutch citizens, like most EU citizens, are now required to get this authorisation as part of the UK's efforts to tighten border control after Brexit.

Can Dutch citizens still travel to the UK without a visa?

Dutch tourists and business travelers no longer have complete visa-free access to the United Kingdom (England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland – not the Republic of Ireland). The UK ETA is not needed for transit.

Dutch travelers don't require a full visa for short-term visits if they have a UK ETA.

💡Catherine Thurtle, iVisa travel expert, adds:

"Attempting to travel without an ETA will result in denied boarding or entry at the border. We offer express options to get it quickly if you're traveling last minute."

UK ETA for Dutch business travelers

Dutch professionals working in logistics and trade can significantly benefit from getting their UK ETA early.

It ensures smoother, quicker entry into the UK, helping you avoid delays during critical business trips. Once you have it, you can enjoy two years of travel without applying again.

How to apply for a UK ETA

Here's how to apply:

1️⃣ Fill out your details: Visit the official UK government website or use our online platform or mobile app.

Complete your personal information and passport details, and submit a recent digital photo and a passport scan.

We'll need this to check if all your details are correctly filled out, and avoid mistakes and delays in your application.

2️⃣ Pay the ETA fee: Pay securely online with one of our flexible payment options, such as a debit or credit card, PayPal, Amazon Pay, or Venmo.

3️⃣ Wait for confirmation: Typically, you'll receive the UK ETA within three working days, although approval often occurs faster.

The UK ETA is digitally linked to your passport number, as there's no need to print anything.

How long can Dutch people stay with the ETA?

Once approved, the UK ETA allows Dutch citizens to enter the UK multiple times for stays up to six months per visit.

The ETA is valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. Once it's expired, you must apply with your new passport number.

Visit the UK government website to check the status of your ETA.

Common mistakes by Dutch travelers (with expert advice)

Some common mistakes Dutch travelers make can be avoided. Keep the following in mind.

Check out the most common rejection reasons for the UK ETA and how to avoid them.

➡️ Janneke Visser, travel consultant, adds:

“Dutch travelers must adapt to the new system quickly to avoid getting denied at the border. Know someone who's traveling to the UK in the near future? Share this info with them."

Other entry rules and considerations for the UK

While entering the United Kingdom via plane or Eurostar train is fairly simple, here are some tips to make it smooth and relaxing:

• Return or onward travel: UK border officials may request proof of your return ticket or onward travel arrangements.

• Customs regulations: Be aware of customs allowances and restrictions, especially when bringing goods into the UK.

💡Michael Angelo from The Project Kosmos shared his experience:

"Everywhere in the UK they make you take out and separate all liquids from your hand luggage. To speed up the process, pack them into a small transparent bag for easy unpacking."

Questions about the UK ETA application?

Ask your question about the UK ETA application via WhatsApp or iVisa chat. We're here to help.