• The UK ETA and ETIAS are electronic travel authorizations designed to enhance border security and streamline entry processes for the UK and Schengen Area, respectively. 

• While the UK ETA applies to the United Kingdom for short stays, ETIAS covers 27 Schengen countries with distinct application processes, costs, and validity periods. 

• International travelers visiting both regions may need both authorizations and should familiarize themselves with the requirements to ensure a smooth journey. 
   

International travel to European countries and the United Kingdom is going through an effective transition. Those who are willing to travel here from visa-exempt countries now require Electronic Travel Authorization. 

The UK has already established its ETA system in October 2023, in which approval to enter the country for short trips such as tourism, business, or transit is provided based on the pre-screening. With UK ETA, travelers from visa-exempt countries such as the US, Canada, etc., now have to verify their identity online. ETIAS is another electronic travel authorization that was introduced in 2016 but has not yet been implemented. It is now expected to come into effect in 2025 so that travelers from visa-exempt countries to Schengen countries become easy.  

The reason for making this verification process mandatory is to improve border security through advanced visitor screening. This will help identify security-related risks easily. While their function is the same, they are quite different in their area of coverage and requirements, which is why it is important for travelers to be aware of both authorizations. 
 

Main Differences Between UK ETAand ETIAS 

Those who are planning to visit the UK or the Schengen Area should know that knowing the difference between ETIAS and UK ETA is important. The information mentioned is shared by the responsible authorities for both ETIAS and UK ETA. Let’s have a look at these. 

Coverage of Geographical Area 

The UK ETA will be valid for travel to the United Kingdom, and It only gives entry to travelers from specific visa-exempt countries. 

On the other hand, ETIAS, whenever it comes into effect, will provide coverage to the countries within the Schengen Area. It will include 29 EU nations. 

Application Procedure 

The process of applying for the UK ETA is fast and easy because of an online application or a mobile app. This will cost £10, and the decision is given within three working days. 

ETIAS applications are also going to be an online process, with a fee of €7 for adults. The processing timing for approval is also estimated to be within 30 hours. 
 

Validity and Duration of Stay 

The UK ETA allows multiple entries over a two-year period or until the passport expires, permitting stays of up to six months per visit. 

ETIAS is going to be valid for three years or until the passport expires. This authorization will allow stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen Area. 
 

Document Requirements 

When applying for the UK eTA, travelers must provide a valid passport and scan a photo linked to their application. Along with this, you need to add personal details such as nationality, criminal records, address, etc., for security purposes. 

As the ETIAS is not yet in the working scenario, it may require similar documentation, including a valid passport and personal information. Just like the UK EA, ETIAS will also be linked with the passport, which will be shared at the time of application. 
 

Important Tips When Applying for ETA or ETIAS 

The whole ETA process relies on the accuracy of the information mentioned in your application. Make sure that you follow the instructions to apply successfully. 

• Check if your nationality needs an ETA. 

• Your passport validity needs to be at least six months. 

• Apply for ETA in advance to avoid any delay on your travel date. 

• Rely only on official websites for paying fees and avoiding scams. 

• Save a copy of your approval for easy access. 
   

FAQs 

1. Do You Need Both UK ETA and ETIAS? 

Travelers may need both the UK ETA and the ETIAS, depending on the areas they are planning to travel to. If you are traveling to the UK and France, you would need to obtain an ETA to enter the UK and an ETIAS for your stay in France. As of now, ETIAS is not applicable, so you only need ETA for the UK. 
 

2. What is the cost of ETIAS? 

The ETIAS application fee is exempted for those under 18 and seniors over 70. Travelers aged 18 to 70 would have to pay €7 for travelers. 

3. Do I need a separate travel insurance policy for the UK and the Schengen Area? 

It can be beneficial to purchase a travel insurance plan that covers both regions, as they have different healthcare systems and requirements. Check with your travel insurance provider for suitable geographical coverage.