From 25 February 2026, the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) became strictly mandatory for all Romanian and Moldovan citizens (with biometric passports) visiting the United Kingdom. Transport companies are legally obliged to refuse boarding to passengers who do not possess this digital document.

Essential Details (February 2026)

  • Cost: £16 (aproximativ 19 EUR / 372 MDL). Unele surse indică o posibilă creștere viitoare la £20.
  • Validity: 2 years or until passport expiration. Allows multiple entries for stays of up to 6 months.
  • Processing Time: Usually received within a few minutes, but it is recommended to apply at least 3 business days before travel.
  • Who Needs It: Tourists, people visiting family/friends, short business travelers, and transit passengers.

How to Apply !

  1. Mobile Application: The easiest way is via the UK ETA app (available on Google Play and Apple App Store).
  2. Official Website: You can also apply via the government portal GOV.UK/eta.
  3. Required Documents: Biometric passport, an email address, and a photo (selfie) taken during the application.

Exceptions

  • You do not need an ETA if you already hold a valid UK visa or have resident status (e.g., Settled Status).

  • From February 2026, there are specific categories of citizens and residents who DO NOT need an ETA to enter the United Kingdom:
  • 1. Citizens with the Right of Free Movement
  • British Citizens: Including those with dual nationality (e.g., Romanian-British), provided they travel with a British passport.
  • Irish Citizens: They are exempt under the rules of the Common Travel Area (Common Travel Area).
  • Holders of British Overseas Passports: (e.g., British Overseas Territory Citizen, British National (Overseas))

2. Residents and Visa Holders:

  • Persons with Resident Status: Those who have Settled Status or Pre-Settled Status under the EU Settlement Scheme.
  • Holders of Valid Visas: If you already have a work, study, or visit visa, you do not need an ETA.
  • Persons with Residence Permission: Anyone who already has the legal right to live, work, or study in the United Kingdom.

3. Geographical and Special Situations

  • Legal Residents of Ireland: Citizens (e.g., Romanian or American) who legally reside in Ireland and travel to the UK directly from Ireland, Guernsey, Jersey, or the Isle of Man do not need an ETA, but must be able to prove Irish residence upon request.
  • “Airside” Transit: People who are only changing planes at a UK airport (such as Heathrow or Manchester) without passing through border control (remaining in the transit area) currently do not need an ETA.
  • School Groups from France: Children traveling as part of organized school trips from France, based on a special form.