Hungarian travelers require the UK ETA in 2025: What you need to know

Hungarian travelers heading to the UK will soon face a crucial change in entry requirements.

From April 2025, all Hungarian passport holders must apply for the UK’s new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before visiting.

This means that you can no longer travel to the United Kingdom without first securing your ETA. Without it, airlines and border officials will deny you boarding or entry.

Find out more in this article.

What is the new UK ETA?

The UK ETA (electronic travel authorization) is a new entry requirement introduced by the UK government for visa-exempt travelers, including Hungarian citizens.

It is designed to strengthen border security while streamlining the entry process. Similar to the US ESTA or Canada’s eTA, it requires travelers to obtain pre-approval before flying to the UK.

Do Hungarian citizens need a UK ETA?

Yes. Hungarian passport holders traveling to the UK for tourism or business will need an ETA. However, those with UK residency, work permits, or valid visas are exempt from this requirement.

Hungarian citizens no longer have full visa-free access to the UK for short stays. While a visa isn’t required for tourism or business trips, an ETA will be mandatory.

💡 Catherine Thurtle, iVisa travel expert, advises:

"Traveling without an approved ETA will result in denied boarding or entry at the UK border. If you need one urgently, we offer expedited processing to help you get it on time."

How to apply for a UK ETA from Hungary

Applying for a UK ETA is a simple online process:

1️⃣ Fill out your personal details, passport information, and your intended travel dates on the government portal or our website or mobile app.

2️⃣ Pay the fee – This covers the UK government fee and iVisa’s processing charge.

3️⃣ Receive your ETA via email – most applications are processed within 24 hours.

How long is the ETA valid for Hungarian passport holders?

The UK ETA allows multiple entries and remains valid for up to two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.

Common mistakes Hungarian travelers make (and how to avoid them)

Many Hungarian travelers make simple mistakes when applying for a UK ETA. Avoid them with these expert tips:

Check out the most common reasons for UK ETA rejections to prevent issues.

💡 Boglárka Tóth, travel consultant, advises:

“With more Hungarians traveling to the UK for work, studies, and tourism, it’s crucial to stay updated on UK travel rules. Share this info with friends and family who are planning a trip.”

More expert tips for Hungarians traveling to UK

✅ Hungarian ID cards won’t work – A biometric passport is required; ID cards are no longer accepted post-Brexit.

✅ Apply on a stable internet connection – If you're applying via the UK Government app and the Wi-Fi drops mid-application, you might have to start over. However, with iVisa, we automatically save your progress.

✅ Middle name matters – Ensure your ETA matches your passport exactly, including middle names.

✅ Check your email spam – ETA approvals arrive by email. Don’t miss it in your junk folder.

✅ Screenshot the confirmation – While it’s linked to your passport, having proof speeds things up if there’s a system glitch.

✅ No work allowed – Even unpaid gigs or remote freelancing could get you denied entry.

✅ Apply early to avoid last-minute issues – While processing is usually fast, delays can happen.

💡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."

Have more questions about the UK ETA application?

For assistance with your ETA application, contact us via WhatsApp or iVisa chat.