The UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is a new travel requirement for Dutch citizens visiting the United Kingdom. Like the US ESTA, the UK ETA allows Dutch people to enter the UK for specific purposes or transit through the country.
Starting January 8, 2025, all Dutch travelers must apply for a UK ETA before their trip. Applications will open on November 27, 2024, for travel starting January 8.
The UK introduced the ETA to simplify visitor entry. It permits short stays for:
The UK ETA system launched on October 25, 2023, starting with Qatari citizens. It later expanded to nationals from Jordan, Bahrain, Oman, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE in February 2024. By November 27, 2024, the system will include 49 more countries, including the US.
From March 5, 2025, travelers from 34 European nations will also need a UK ETA.
The UK is a top destination for Dutch travelers. In 2024, 3.1 million Dutch people visited for tourism, connecting with family, business, and more.
If you’re planning a trip to the UK in 2025, don’t forget to apply for your UK ETA. It’s easy to apply online, so start scheduling your visit today!
With an ETA, there are a few things you can’t do:
The UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) brings exciting benefits to Dutch citizens, making trips to the UK faster and hassle-free. Here’s why you’ll love it:
Applying for a UK ETA is quick and easy. The entire process is online, and you can finish it in just minutes. With no paperwork or in-person visits, it’s the most convenient way to get travel approval.
The UK ETA lets you travel to the UK as often as you want within its validity period. There’s no need to apply every time. So frequent travelers can save time and focus on enjoying their journey.
With pre-approved travel authorization, entering the UK is faster and more efficient. You’ll spend less time at border control and more time exploring everything in the UK.
Most applications are processed within hours, and the maximum wait time is just three working days. That means you can plan your trip with confidence, even at the last minute.
The UK ETA helps enhance security for visitors and residents. By screening travelers ahead of time, it ensures a safer travel experience for everyone.
If you’re a Dutch citizen planning a trip to the UK, you may need a UK ETA. Here’s what you need to know to qualify:
Hold an Dutch Passport
You must be a Dutch citizen with a valid Dutch passport. Only citizens of eligible nations can apply for a UK ETA.
Stay for 6 Months or Less
The UK ETA is for short visits of up to six months. If you plan to stay longer, apply for a different UK visa that fits your needs.
No Criminal Record
Applicants should have a clean criminal record. You might not get approved if you:
The UK runs background checks to ensure travelers meet security rules.
Check your documents, understand the rules, and make sure you meet the criteria before applying for your UK ETA.
Getting a UK ETA as a Dutch citizen is simple and hassle-free. You can complete the process online in just a few minutes. Follow these 3 steps to apply:
Start by filling out the UK ETA application form online. Make sure to enter all your personal details and contact information correctly.
You’ll also need to upload:
Answer all the questions honestly, especially those related to travel history and criminal records.
Note- Double-check everything before submitting. Any mistakes can cause delays or rejection.
Once you’ve completed the form, pay the required fee using a valid payment method. You can pay with:
Most applicants get their UK ETA within a few hours. However, the official processing time is up to 3 working days. Keep an eye on your email for updates.
If your application is approved, you’ll receive your ETA in your inbox. If it’s rejected, you’ll get an email explaining the next steps.
Dutch citizens must meet a few simple requirements to apply for a UK ETA. Here’s what you need to have ready:
Valid Passport – Ensure your Dutch passport is valid and has at least six months of validity from your planned arrival date in the UK. You’ll need this for your application and travel.
Recent Photo – Upload a clear and recent photo. It should meet the UK’s size and format rules:
Payment Method – Pay the application cost using a valid credit card, debit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay.
Active Email Address – Provide a working email address that you check often. Updates about your UK ETA application, including the approval notice, will be sent here.
We make sure your UK ETA is processed quickly. Most travelers get approval within a few hours. At most, it can take up to 3 days.
However, processing time can depend on:
It’s best to apply early, especially during busy travel seasons.
The UK ETA fee is £00 for Dutch citizens. This amount includes both the government fee and our service fee for managing your application.
Your UK ETA stays valid for 2 years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. During this period, you can enjoy multiple trips to the UK without reapplying.
Keep in mind:
The UK ETA can not be extended. If you plan to stay long days, consider applying for a visa that fits your needs.
This multi-entry feature makes it easier for frequent travelers to explore the UK without hassle. Whether it’s for leisure, work, or a short course, the UK ETA keeps your travel smooth and simple!
Once your UK ETA is approved, you’ll get an email confirmation. This approval lets you travel to the UK without worries. Your ETA is linked to your passport, making your entry process quick and simple. You can rest and concentrate on planning your trip.
If your UK ETA is rejected, you’ll be notified of the reason. Common reasons include mistakes in your application or not meeting the requirements. Don’t worry—you can fix any errors and reapply. The process is fair and gives you another chance to get it right.
The UK ETA cannot be renewed. Once it expires after two years, you’ll need to apply for a new one. This applies to Dutch citizens whose passports expire before the two years as well.
Plan to avoid travel disruptions. When your ETA or passport nears expiry, start your application early. It’s simple, and quick, and keeps your travel plans stress-free!
Sometimes, your UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) can be denied. Here are some common reasons why and how you can avoid them:
If you’ve been convicted of a crime, you may not be approved for a UK ETA. This applies if you were sentenced to 12 months or more in prison, either in the UK or abroad. Even if the crime occurred outside the UK, it could still affect your application.
If your conviction was within the last 12 months and you were sentenced to less than a year, wait a full year before applying. If your conviction was for more than a year, it’s a good idea to talk to an immigration lawyer before applying.
One of the most common mistakes is filling out an application with outdated or wrong information. Even small errors can cause your application to be rejected.
Take your time when filling out the application. Double-check everything. Make sure all the details are current and correct. The application instructions are easy to follow, so just read through them carefully before you submit.
To get a UK ETA, you must meet all eligibility requirements, including being a U.S. citizen with a valid passport. If you don’t meet these conditions, your application will be refused. Check the rules carefully before applying.
A history of overstaying visas or breaking immigration rules in the UK or elsewhere can lead to rejection. You may need to resolve these issues or apply for a visa instead.
Your UK ETA is linked to the passport you used to apply. If you have more than one passport, always travel with the one connected to your ETA. This is important to avoid any issues at the UK border.
For Dutch citizens, the UK ETA allows smooth travel as long as you meet the UK’s entry rules. When you arrive, border officers will scan your passport to confirm your ETA.
After clear border control, keep your passport safe and with you at all times. You’ll need it throughout your trip, whether you’re exploring London or enjoying the beauty of Wales.
Here’s how to do it:
A reference number is essential for checking the status.
Go to the UK ETA Status link on our website.
Type your Unique Application Reference number in the search box.
Click submit to view the status of the UK ETA application.
If you lose the reference number, you can not check the status online. In this case, it is best, to contact our customer support for help.
The ETA isn’t a visa. It’s a digital travel pass for people from certain visa-free countries. You can apply for it online, making the process quick and easy.
A UK Visa has more steps. It’s required for many nationalities and involves filling out detailed forms and sometimes visiting an office in person.
The ETA is valid for two years or until your passport expires. It lets you visit the UK multiple times, staying up to six months per trip. It’s also more affordable than most UK Visas, which vary in cost based on the type and duration.
In short, the ETA is a simpler and cheaper option for eligible travelers. But if you’re not eligible, you’ll need to apply for a standard UK Visa.
If you’re from an eligible country, you’ll need an ETA to enter the UK. Starting November 5, 2024, this includes Dutch citizens and nationals from 34 European countries.
Yes. All Dutch citizens, including kids, must have an ETA to visit the UK. Parents or guardians can apply for their children, the process is the same for everyone.
No, you can’t get an ETA at the airport. You need to apply for it online before your trip. It must be linked to your passport before you arrive in the UK.
The fastest way is to apply online. Fill out the application form, and you’ll receive your ETA by email. Most ETAs are processed within a few hours, but it can take up to 3 working days.
You’ll need:
Yes. If you have dual-citizenship, you can apply for an ETA. Use the same passport for your ETA application and travel. Make sure to apply with the passport you’ll use on your trip.
No, an ETA only allows you to stay in the UK for up to six months. If you want to stay longer, you’ll need to apply for a different UK visa.
No, you don’t need an ETA if you already have a valid UK visa. This includes any type of UK e-visa.
If you spot an error in your UK ETA application, contact our customer support team right away. As long as your application hasn’t been processed yet, we can help you correct the mistake quickly.
Established in the year 2022, our travel agency, etauk.ae was born out of a deep passion for creating exceptional and unforgettable journeys for travelers. Our main goal has always been to design personalized travel plans that go beyond what our clients expect.
