Electronic Travel Authorisation for UK Cruises: Everything You Need to Know

Electronic Travel Authorisation is in the process of being rolled out and will impact visitors to the UK. An ETA for UK cruises is essential for anyone who is not exempt – read on to find out more about who’s affected and how the scheme works.

What is the Electronic Travel Authorisation Scheme?

The Electronic Travel Authorisation scheme is an online system where travellers will need to apply for and obtain authorisation before embarking on their journey to the UK. It applies to visa-exempt visitors and will operate in a similar way to existing systems such as the US ESTA or the EU’s upcoming ETIAS.

This new entry requirement mainly impacts non-visa nationals, namely tourists who wouldn’t normally need a visa to enter the UK for short stays. 

Electronic Travel Authorisation for UK cruises is essential unless you are:

• In possession of a valid visa
• Living, working or studying in the UK
• A British or Irish citizen
• Travelling with a British overseas territories citizen passport
• Living in Ireland and you are travelling from Ireland, Guernsey, Jersey or the Isle of Man
• Transiting through the UK without passing through border control (known as ‘airside’ transit)

Who needs an ETA?

Everyone travelling to the UK who will pass through border control will need Electronic Travel Authorisation, including babies and children.

The ETA scheme is currently being rolled out in stages. The easiest way to find out when you can apply is to refer to the government’s website.

If your nationality is not listed here, you are not eligible for Electronic Travel Authorisation and will need to apply for a visa instead.

Do I need an ETA for UK cruises?

Passengers on cruise ships who plan to embark, disembark, or visit the UK as part of their itinerary will need Electronic Travel Authorisation.

How much will an ETA cost?

The ETA UK fee is £10. Once granted, is valid for multiple entries over a two-year period. This means that you will not have to reapply for each trip that you make to the UK.

There is a six-month limit on each visit to the UK.

If you receive a new passport in this two-year time frame, you will need to apply for a new ETA.

How to apply for an ETA for UK cruises

You will need to apply for Electronic Travel Authorisation online in plenty of time for your cruise to the UK. In order to speed up the process, make sure you have the following available before you start your application:

• The passport you will travel with – this does not include a photocopy or digital passport
• Access to your email account
• A credit card, debit card, Apple Pay or Google Pay
• Photos of your passport and the face of the person making the ETA application

If you are cruising as a group, each person will need to apply for their own ETA, if required to do so.

Once you have submitted your application, you should receive a decision within three working days. Please ensure you submit your Electronic Travel Authorisation for UK cruises with plenty of time ahead of your departure to avoid any delays.