UK to Expand E-Visa Program to Hungarian Travelers
New UK Travel Requirement: Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)
Beginning in April 2025, the United Kingdom (UK) will implement a new travel requirement for citizens of all visa-free countries, including Hungary. The Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) will be mandatory for all Hungarian citizens traveling to the UK.
Introduced last year to eligible non-European nationals from countries like the USA, Canada, and Australia, the ETA will now be expanded to include European citizens. Ambassador Ferenc Kumin of the Embassy of Hungary in London emphasized that starting from April 2, all Hungarian citizens must have an ETA when visiting the UK. He also outlined the process of applying for an ETA using a designated app.
Travelers can find information on applying for an ETA on the official website and the Consular Service website. Assistance from ETA advisers is available via webchat on gov.uk for any questions or issues with the application. To expedite the process, travelers are advised to upload a photo of their passport data page and a recent photo of themselves (in JPG or JPEG format) before applying. It is recommended to complete the ETA application at least three working days before the trip to ensure timely receipt of the permit.
As of now, the ETA fee is £10 and allows multiple visits to the UK for up to 6 months over a 2-year period or until the passport expires. However, the fee will increase to £16 from April 9, 2025. It is essential to note that an ETA is not equivalent to a visa but a necessary requirement for visa-exempt travelers entering the UK. The UK ETA is a digital travel authorization permitting foreign nationals to visit the UK for short stays, including leisure, business, short-term study, overland transit, and temporary work.
For more details and to watch the official videos, visit the UK government’s website. Stay informed and ensure compliance with the new UK travel regulations to have a smooth and hassle-free experience when visiting the country.
