The UK is introducing new UK entry requirements for Swiss nationals starting in 2025. Swiss travelers will now need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to visit the UK visa-free.
Beginning April 2, 2025, citizens of 34 European countries and territories will need the ETA to enter the UK without a visa. It will also apply to 49 visa-exempt countries and territories, including the United States, starting January 8, 2025.
This travel news is part of the UK’s efforts to digitize and modernize its border control system.
The ETA aims to simplify the process for short-term visits while ensuring better security checks. This development reflects the UK’s growing focus on streamlined and secure entry procedures.
ETA Process and Swiss Travel Rules
Swiss nationals can begin applying for their ETA from March 5, 2025, while non-Europeans can start on November 27, 2024. This is part of the UK travel rules in 2025 that will affect all Swiss travelers heading to the UK for short stays, including for tourism or business purposes.
Applications can be made through the UK government’s official portal or the “UK ETA” mobile app for iOS and Android. The Swiss entry rules in 2025 will bring the UK’s system in line with countries like the United States, Canada, and Australia, requiring travelers to complete an online application before their trip.
The ETA costs £10. According to the British Home Office, it will allow multiple trips to the UK for stays of up to six months on multiple occasions within a two-year period.
The British government states that the ETA will be “linked to a traveler’s passport and ensure more robust security checks. “
Impact on Swiss Travelers and Tourism
The introduction of the ETA system will significantly impact Swiss nationals’ UK travel plans starting next year.
The UK is a popular destination for Swiss travelers, and these changes are expected to simplify the process of short-term visits. Tourism statistics indicate that the UK welcomed 968,000 visits from Switzerland in 2023, with Swiss visitors spending a total of £755.3 million ($993.7 million) during their stays.
However, Swiss nationals should be aware that failing to apply for an ETA could result in entry being denied.
As tourism continues to grow, these new measures will ensure that Swiss citizens travel to the UK efficiently and securely.
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