how to process the electronic authorization and how much it costs

January 2025 and, as announced, the United Kingdom started asking to travelers with an Argentine passport – and other non-European nationalities – the presentation of the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to enter in its territory.

It is new travel requirement is for those non-european citizens -travelers of 48 nationalities, including Argentina-, who until now did not need a visa to travel for tourism to the United Kingdomnor to visit family and friends or make business trips.

In addition, it must be taken into account that this is the first step of a schedule that contemplates that, in a few months, European citizens will also have to present the ETA to enter (starting on April 2).

The Electronic Travel Authorization or ETA is a digital permit to travel to different destinations in the United Kingdom.

At the moment, all non-European people are asked to travel without the need for a visa (European citizens will also have to present one, but only from April 2).

This new requirement for travelers aims to have “a more agile digital immigration system“they explain in a communication on networks from the British Embassy in Argentina.

Argentine travelers can process the request online through the UK ETA appwhich can be downloaded from Google Play or Apple Store.

The procedure can also be carried out through the web GOV.UK

If everything is fine, we won’t have to wait long to obtain permission.

“Applicants generally receive a decision within 3 business days following, but you can get a faster decision if you use the UK ETA application,” they explain from the British Embassy online.

Confirmation will arrive by email.

This new travel authorization costs 10 pounds (just over 12 dollars). It must be processed before traveling and each person must have their ETA, including minors.

The ETA has valid for two years or until the passport expiration of the traveler (whichever comes first). If you renew your passport, you will need a new permit.

Serves for multiple trips up to 6 months each stay.

When applying you must have:

• passport (photocopy is not valid)

• credit card, debit card, Google Pay or Apple Pay

Keep in mind that you will have to upload or take a passport and face photo of the person who applies.

It is important to remember that having the permit does not automatically guarantee entry to the United Kingdom. Even so, you will have to complete the Immigration procedure when landing at your destination.

On the other hand, those who plan to travel to live, work or study in the United Kingdom must remember that they need to apply for a visa and, in this case, the permit is not required.