New UK ETA for Swiss passport holders: Avoid issues with these expert tips

Swiss citizens planning to visit the UK should be aware of an important recent travel rule update: You must now apply for the UK ETA before traveling.

Even though Switzerland isn't part of the EU, many Swiss business travelers and tourists wonder if they still can travel to the United Kingdom without a visa.

Here's everything you need to know to ensure smooth entry to the UK.

Do Swiss Travelers now need a UK ETA or visa?

Swiss passport holders generally don't need a traditional UK visa for short visits, but they must now get an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before traveling to the UK.

This applies whether you're visiting for tourism or business (not for transit).

Quick facts about the UK ETA:

➡️ It's an electronic permission linked to your passport (no need to print anything).

➡️ Valid for multiple entries within a two-year period (or when your passport expires, whichever comes first).

➡️ Allows stays of up to 6 months per visit.

How to quickly get your UK ETA via iVisa

Getting your UK ETA is straightforward. Visit iVisa's official ETA application page or download the mobile app, or apply via the UK government portal.

Here's how to apply via us:

1️⃣ Fill out your details: Complete your personal information and passport details, and submit a recent digital photo and a passport scan.

We'll need this to double-check if all your details are correctly filled out, so you can avoid mistakes and delays in your ETA application.

💡 Catherine Thurtle, iVisa travel expert, adds:

"A review of your details is especially important given the newness of this document."

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.

What changes for Swiss business travelers?

Swiss business travelers must also apply for the UK ETA. Although it's easier to get than a visa, it's crucial to secure it before travel to avoid delays or getting denied boarding.

Remember, it covers business meetings, conferences, and networking events, but not long-term employment or permanent business establishment.

Avoid making these mistakes when applying for the UK ETA

Below are the most common mistakes made by Swiss travelers when applying for their ETA, and how to avoid them.

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

💡 Sophie Müller from Zurich:

“I travel frequently to London for work. Applying for the UK ETA well ahead of time saved me from last-minute hassles. I shared the new rule with all my colleagues to make sure they know about it.”

Other UK entry rules for Swiss citizens to keep in mind

Here are additional UK entry rules for Swiss citizens that you can include in your blog:

• Return or onward ticket: Having proof of a return ticket or onward travel is recommended and may be requested upon entry.

• Travel insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance covering medical expenses is strongly advised, since normal insurance may not be valid in the UK.

• Customs restrictions: Familiarize yourself with UK customs regulations to avoid bringing prohibited or restricted items.

💡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."

• Border checks: Expect standard immigration questions regarding your purpose of visit, intended duration, and plans while in the UK.

Can Swiss travelers use the eGates at UK airports?

Yes, if you have a biometric symbol on the cover of your passport, you can use the eGates for quicker entry to the UK at airports.

More questions about the UK ETA application?

Get more info about the UK ETA application via WhatsApp or iVisa chat. We're here to assist.