As budget travel to the UK booms, many travelers must also secure a new requirement: the UK ETA. If you’re flying via Ryanair, Wizz Air, or other low-cost airlines, then it’s essential you understand this new rule. If you miss it, then you might need to end your trip before it even starts.
In this guide, we cover the UK ETA, its impact on budget airline flyers, and how you can prepare.
What Is the UK ETA?
The UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) is a new entry requirement for visa-free travelers. Specifically, it’s part of the UK’s plan to tighten border control.
If you’re not a UK or Irish citizen and don’t need a visa to enter, then you may now need an ETA. It’s similar to the US ESTA or EU ETIAS systems.
For the ETA, you must apply online before your trip. If authorities approve your application, then ETA lets you visit the UK for up to six months for tourism, business, or transit.
Once granted, your ETA establishes an electronic link to your passport. To clarify, you won’t get a physical document.
Currently, the system is rolling out in phases. In time, it will soon apply to most non-visa nationals. Hence, check your country’s status on the official UK government site.
Attention, Budget Airline Travelers
Flying with Ryanair, Wizz Air, or other low-cost airlines means convenience and savings — but also strict rules.
For instance, budget carriers run tight schedules and offer minimal airport support. In addition, they often deny boarding for incorrect or missing documents, including ETAs.
Additionally, staff won’t help fix mistakes at the gate. If you arrive without an ETA when required, then you won’t fly — even if you have a ticket.
As such, travelers on budget airlines should prepare extra carefully. Understanding and securing your ETA is as important as your boarding pass.
UK ETA and Ryanair
Ryanair is famous for its no-nonsense policies. Specifically, they won’t check if you have an ETA when you book — it’s your job to know.
Hence, make sure you have ETA approval before checking in. In addition, Ryanair requires all travelers to check in online and may not verify your documents until boarding.
In addition, keep a digital and printout of your ETA approval. Although it may share a link to your passport, airline staff may still ask for proof.
If you’re connecting through the UK with Ryanair, then you may still need an ETA — even if you’re not staying.
As such, always check the UK government’s ETA site before flying. To clarify, Ryanair doesn’t provide ETA guidance during booking or check-in.
UK ETA and Wizz Air
Wizz Air passengers face similar requirements. Specifically, the airline expects travelers to handle their own travel documentation, including visas and ETAs.
Wizz Air operates heavily through app-based check-in and digital boarding passes. That means less staff interaction — and fewer document checks before boarding.
Moreover, you won’t get a reminder about the ETA. If you’re flying to or transiting through the UK, then you’re responsible for getting it done.
Hence, remember to download and store a copy of your ETA approval on your phone. Also, keep a printout as backup in case of tech issues.
Furthermore, if you miss your flight due to a missing ETA, Wizz Air won’t refund or rebook for free. Overall, preparation is key.
Common Mistakes Travelers Make
Travelers on budget airlines often make simple but costly ETA errors. Here are the top issues to avoid:
- Applying too late: While approval is fast, delays can happen. As such, apply at least a week before travel.
- Incorrect passport number: If your ETA doesn’t match your passport exactly, then it’s invalid.
- Thinking it’s a visa: To clarify, It’s not. Although it doesn’t guarantee entry, it’s mandatory to board your flight.
- Assuming layovers don’t count: If you stop in the UK — even briefly — you may need an ETA.
- Believing the airline handles it: They don’t. Correspondingly, the ETA is entirely your responsibility.
Budget airlines won’t help fix these mistakes. Hence, check everything twice.
Trip with the UK ETA in Mind
Adding the ETA to your travel checklist is simple — and smart.
First, visit the EVS platform. It simplifies the ETA application process so you can avoid going through complex application processes. Apply using your passport, a recent photo, and a credit or debit card.
The ETA lasts for two years or until your passport expires.
Use your budget airline’s app to store your ETA approval email. Still, carry a printout for safety.
Plan to arrive early at the airport in case staff need to verify your documents. Don’t rely solely on digital systems.
If you’re traveling with family or a group, then apply for each member individually. Kids need their own ETA.
Ready to apply for an ETA via EVS? Then click the button to get started.
Apply NowFinal Thoughts
Flying Ryanair, Wizz Air, or other budget airlines is a great way to save money. But low-cost flying means more personal responsibility.
Without a valid ETA, you might be denied boarding — no matter how cheap your flight was. Hence, stay informed, apply early, and check all your travel documents twice. Overall, a few minutes of planning can save you hundreds in missed flights and hotel costs.
For professional and reliable ETA processing, visit EVS.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a UK ETA if I’m only transiting through London?
Yes, many nationalities do. Even if you don’t leave the airport, an ETA may still be required.
Can I apply for the UK ETA at the airport?
No. You must apply online in advance and receive approval before check-in.
How long does the UK ETA take to process?
Most applications are approved within 72 hours, but delays can occur. Apply at least a week before travel.
Can I use the same ETA for multiple trips?
Yes. The ETA is valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
Is the ETA required for Irish citizens?
No. Irish citizens are exempt due to the Common Travel Area agreement.
What are the nationalities that can already apply for an ETA?
As of April 2025, the following nationalities can start applying for the ETA:
Non-European countries
- Antigua and Barbuda,
- Argentina,
- Australia,
- Bahamas,
- Barbados,
- Belize,
- Botswana,
- Brazil,
- Brunei,
- Canada,
- Chile,
- Costa Rica,
- Grenada,
- Guatemala,
- Guyana,
- Hong Kong,
- Marshall Islands,
- Mauritius,
- Mexico,
- Micronesia,
- Nauru,
- New Zealand,
- Nicaragua,
- Palau,
- Panama,
- Papua New Guinea,
- Paraguay,
- Peru,
- Saint Kitts and Nevis,
- Saint Lucia,
- Saint Vincent and the Grenadines,
- Samoa,
- Seychelles,
- Singapore,
- Solomon Islands,
- South Korea,
- Taiwan,
- Tonga,
- Trinidad and Tobago,
- Tuvalu,
- United States, and
- Uruguay
European Countries
- Andorra
- Austria
- Belgium
- Bulgaria
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Czechia
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Monaco
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania
- San Marino
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Vatican City
If I’m a dual citizen with a British passport, can I use one passport for my UK ETA and another for entry?
Because your ETA is linked to one passport, no. Hence, you must use the same document for travel and immigration checks.
