Starting 8 January 2025, non-visa travelers from outside Europe, including cruise passengers disembarking at United Kingdom (UK) ports, must have an ETA.
An ETA, or an Electronic Travel Authorization, is a pre-travel permit digitally linked to one’s passport required before traveling to the UK.
It is mandatory for all non-visa nationals visiting the UK for short trips, whether traveling by air, land, or sea.
Norwegian Cruise Line has proactively informed its passengers about upcoming travel requirements for a smooth onboard experience.
ETA’s impact on cruise passengers
Norwegian Cruise Line is taking extra steps to ensure that its passengers are aware of the new requirement, per a Cruise Hive report.
Cruise guests planning to disembark at UK ports must apply for an ETA before their journey to avoid travel disruptions.
In a message to its passengers, the company stressed that it is essential to comply with all necessary travel documentation for UK trips to avoid the risk of being denied boarding.
It also reminded guests that the ETA application process can take up to three business days, so it’s best to apply as soon as possible.
The new ETA requirements will impact several upcoming Norwegian Cruise Line voyages. These include:
- Norwegian Bliss: Departs Miami on 4 January 2025 and arrives in Southampton, England, on 17 January 2025.
- Norwegian Breakaway: Departs Miami on 7 February 2025 and arrives in Southampton on 19 February 2025.
- Norwegian Prima: Departs New York City on 27 April 2025, with stops in Belfast and Liverpool before disembarking in Southampton on 11 May 2025.
Passengers on voyages arriving in January and February 2025 will only need an ETA if they are non-European nationals.
European nationals are exempt from these early voyages, as their ETA requirement begins in April 2025.
The UK ETA and its rollout timeline
The UK Government is introducing the ETA system as part of a larger initiative to digitize and improve border security.
Like systems in countries like the United States, the ETA is not a visa but a mandatory digital travel authorization for short stays.
Non-visa-required travelers must apply for an ETA before their trip to the UK, allowing the government to identify potential threats before arriving.
It is also designed to streamline the entry process for non-visa travelers, as the ETA will be automatically linked to one’s passport.
Once approved, an ETA will be valid for two years or until the traveler’s passport expires, whichever comes first.
This means that travelers can enter the UK multiple times during the validity period. The cost of applying for an ETA is £10.
Non-European travelers can apply for an ETA starting 27 November 2024 for trips on or after 8 January 2025.
European nationals, except Irish citizens, must have an ETA for travel starting 2 April 2025, with applications opening for them on 5 March 2025.
It’s important to note that travelers must use the same passport for their ETA application and their UK journey.
If travelers’ passports expire before the ETAs’ validity period, they apply for a new ETA to continue being allowed to travel to the UK.
ETA application process
ETA applications can be submitted online via the official UK Government website or the UK ETA app.
The process is designed to be user-friendly, with most decisions provided within three working days.
Applicants need a valid passport, a recent photo, a working email address, and a credit or debit card for payment.
They must provide personal and passport information, answer security questions, and pay the £10 application fee.
While the ETA application process is easy, applicants must complete the form correctly to avoid mistakes.
They must also answer truthfully and accurately, as simple mistakes can lead to denial or refusal.
Those denied an ETA must apply for an alternative UK visa.
It’s also important to note that ETAs are only for short stays of up to six months for leisure, permitted business activities, and short-course study.
Transit passengers and those coming to the UK under the Creative Worker visa concession must also have an ETA.
Visa-required nationals and those planning to work, settle, or stay longer than six months in the UK must still apply for a visa.
What to expect moving forward
The ETA scheme reflects the government’s goal to enhance security while keeping the entry process efficient for travelers.
By sharing relevant information, Norwegian Cruise Line ensures its passengers are prepared for the changes.
Cruise passengers planning to visit UK ports should prioritize securing an ETA.
Applying well before their intended travel date will help travelers avoid last-minute complications and ensure a smooth journey.
Staying informed about the new requirements will be key to navigating these changes seamlessly.