The new process is already causing irritation among Malaysian travellers who are bemoaning the high cost of application.

From January 8, 2025, the UK will implement its new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, fundamentally changing how visa-exempt travellers enter the country. This digital pre-clearance scheme requires individuals to secure approval before boarding a flight to the UK, mirroring systems already in place in the United States and other nations.

Here’s everything you need to know about the new ETA requirement.

WHO NEEDS AN ETA?

An ETA will be mandatory for travellers from the 48 countries that currently enjoy visa-free access to the UK. This includes citizens of Malaysia, Singapore, the United States, Canada, Japan, South Korea, and Australia, among others, who collectively account for over six million visitors annually. EU citizens will need an ETA to enter the UK starting April 2, 2025. However, those already resident in the UK will be exempt.

The scheme covers short visits of less than six months for purposes such as tourism, business, short-term study, or permitted paid engagements. The full list of eligible countries is available on the UK government website.

While the ETA is often likened to a visa, it is technically a visa waiver. Those requiring a visa to enter the UK will still need to follow the usual visa application process and will not need an ETA in addition to their visa.

HOW TO APPLY FOR AN ETA

The ETA costs £10 (approximately RM56 at current exchange rates) and can be applied for through the official UK government website or its dedicated app, available for iPhone and Android. Officials recommend using the app, as it reportedly reduces processing times to around 10 minutes. Online applications may take up to 20 minutes and must be completed in a single session. The application fee is non-refundable.

Applicants will need to upload a photo of their passport, take a live scan and photograph of themselves, and answer questions about their travel plans. Decisions are typically provided within three days, although longer processing times are possible. Travellers in urgent need of visiting the UK can apply while already en route but must have submitted their application prior to departure.

Every traveller must apply for an ETA, including children and even infants.

As reported in local media, Malaysian travellers are reacting with dismay at the new ETA process and its associated fees.

HOW LONG IS THE ETA VALID?

Once approved, the ETA is valid for two years and allows multiple entries. However, as the document is digitally linked to the passport used during application, it becomes invalid if the passport expires. Travellers will then need to reapply for a new ETA.

SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES: TRANSITS AND FAMILIES

Travellers merely transiting through UK airports, such as Heathrow, will also need an ETA to move through passport control. Just as for those visiting the UK, the transit ETA requirement also applies universally, even to infants and children. While each individual must have their own ETA, applications can be completed on someone else’s behalf.

LIMITATIONS AND IMPORTANT NOTES

The ETA is strictly for short stays of up to six months. It does not guarantee entry into the UK, as Border Force officials retain ultimate authority at passport control. Visitors seeking extended stays or residency must follow traditional visa application protocols.

LOOKING AHEAD: THE EU’S ETIAS SYSTEM

While the UK’s ETA system rolls out in January, travellers planning trips to Europe will need to prepare for the European Union’s long-delayed ETIAS visa waiver, expected to launch later in 2025. Like the ETA, ETIAS will require pre-clearance for visa-exempt visitors entering EU member states.