Italian citizens travelling to the United Kingdom must now apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before departure.

The ETA is similar to the ESTA required to travel to the United States. It is not a visa, but a mandatory pre-travel authorisation for visitors who do not normally need a visa to enter the UK.

What the ETA means for Italian travellers

The ETA is a security measure introduced to strengthen UK border controls. It allows the British authorities to carry out checks on visa-exempt visitors before they travel, helping to prevent illegal entry, organised crime and security threats.

If you are travelling from Italy, you must:

  • Apply for an ETA online or via the official UK ETA app before travelling.

  • Pay a £16 application fee for each traveller, including children.

  • Provide personal details such as your full name, passport number, date of birth and contact information.

  • Answer basic security and eligibility questions.

The ETA is linked to your passport and is valid for two years, or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. During that time, you can make multiple trips to the UK, staying up to six months per visit for tourism, family visits, business or short-term study.

When the ETA applies to Italian citizens

The rollout timetable for European travellers has now been confirmed.

  • From 2 April 2025, Italian citizens must have an approved ETA before travelling to the United Kingdom.

  • From 25 February 2026, travel without an ETA will no longer be permitted. Airlines, ferry companies and train operators will check ETA status before boarding.

This means that travelling without an ETA will result in being refused boarding, even if you hold a valid passport.

Who does not need an ETA

You do not need an ETA if you:

  • Hold a British or Irish passport.

  • Already have a valid UK visa.

  • Have settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme.

Please use official government sources to stay updated

This information is accurate at the time of writing, but is updated frequently. For the most accurate and current information, always consult official UK government channels first, including the guidance published by the UK Home Office.

The GOV.UK website is the primary reference point for ETA rules, eligibility and application procedures.

Key takeaway on the UK ETA

If you are an Italian citizen planning to visit the United Kingdom, you must apply for an ETA before travelling. The requirement is already in force, the fee is £16, and travel without an approved ETA will not be allowed from February 2026.