Beginning in January, Americans will be required to pay to enter the U.K.

Starting in January, travelers to the United Kingdom must obtain a new electronic travel authorization (ETA) for entry, according to the U.K. government.

This new requirement applies to all visa-free visitors, including Americans, of any age. It has been in effect for visitors from Gulf Cooperation Council countries since early 2024.

From January 8, 2025, this will extend to travelers from the U.S., Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, and others, with the requirement expanding to the rest of the EU in April.

Starting on November 27, 2024, individuals from the U.S. and other countries can apply for an ETA, which will be necessary for travel commencing on January 8, 2025.

According to a statement from the Home Office to TPG, "ETAs will be mandatory for visitors who don’t require a visa for short visits, including those from Europe." Currently, visitors from Europe, the U.S., and Australia do not need to apply to enter the U.K., but this will change with the rollout of ETAs.

Since the ETA is not classified as a visa, travelers from Europe and other visa-exempt nations, including the U.S., will retain their visa-free entry but will need an ETA to enter the U.K. once it is implemented.

The cost of an ETA will be 10 pounds (approximately $13) and it will allow multiple entries for up to six months within a two-year timeframe. Travelers must apply online for the ETA prior to their journey and will need to upload a photograph. U.K. officials indicate that processing may take up to three business days.