You now need a permit to travel from Czechia to the UK: Everything you need to know

People with EU citizenship living in Czechia who want to visit the UK can apply for electronic travel authorization (ETA) from Wednesday, March 5. British Ambassador to Czechia Matt Field confirmed on social media this week that EU nationals must have an ETA to visit the UK starting April 2.

Here is everything you need to know and expect ahead of the upcoming travel rules.

It is an electronic authorization required for both EU citizens and nationals from third countries to enter the UK, Field explains.

Some non-European visa-exempt travelers already require an ETA to visit the UK.

Visa-exempt countries include EU nations and countries in the European Economic Area, as well as third countries. Those with valid visas to enter or reside in the UK and people with Irish citizenship do not need an ETA.

The authorization is required for tourism, business, family visits, and short-term studies. It also applies to transit passengers unless they remain in an international airport’s transfer zone without passing through border control. 

The UK is one of the top destinations from Prague Airport, attracting large numbers of British tourists to and from Czechia each year. This change could significantly impact Czechia’s tourism industry. Additionally, it means travelers will face higher costs when visiting the British Isles.

Those eligible can apply for an ETA via the UK’s ETA app available on iOS and Android, or online at the UK's Home Office website.

The cost is GBP 10 (around CZK 300) for all nationals.

The UK government’s website claims that it takes up to three working days to get an ETA. However, “most applicants get an automatic decision in minutes” if using the ETA app, the UK Home Office says.

“We strongly recommend applying early to avoid delays,” the Czech Ministry of Foreign Affairs has warned. The decision should, regardless, take much quicker than three working days in the vast majority of instances.

Once approved, you’ll receive an email confirmation. There is no need to present a separate document—your ETA is automatically checked when you scan your passport.

An ETA permits multiple journeys to the UK for stays of up to six months at a time in a two-year time period or until the holder’s passport expires—whichever is sooner.