Visiting London is a one-of-a-kind experience: history, culture, art, and modernity blend in a vibrant city that never disappoints. But if you’re planning your trip in 2025, there are some key aspects you need to be aware of. Since Brexit, entry requirements have changed, so it’s essential to understand what you need to travel to London — and one of the most important elements will be the ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation), a new requirement to enter the UK.
In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know: required documents, how the ETA works, whether you need a visa, and some extra tips to help you make the most of your visit to the British capital.
Current situation in the United Kingdom
Since leaving the European Union, the UK has implemented new border control measures that affect all travellers, including EU citizens. Although freedom of movement no longer applies, tourism is still very much welcome. To support this, the British government has introduced new entry systems designed to streamline the process without compromising security.
The most recent of these changes is the ETA — an electronic travel authorisation that will be required for nationals from certain countries, including Spain and several Latin American nations, starting in 2025.
Documents required to travel to London in 2025
If you’re wondering what you need to travel to London in 2025, here’s an updated list of the essential documents:
◾A valid passport that remains valid throughout your stay
◾ An approved ETA (if applicable)
◾A return ticket or proof of onward travel
◾Accommodation confirmation (hotel booking, short-term rental contract, or invitation letter)
◾International health insurance (strongly recommended)
◾Sufficient funds to support your stay (proof rarely requested, but advisable)
While travelling to London remains relatively straightforward for most tourists, it’s important to prepare everything in advance to avoid delays or issues at the border.
What is the ETA for the United Kingdom?
The ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) is a new digital system introduced by the UK, which will become mandatory in 2025 for visitors who do not need a visa for short stays.
This electronic permit is not a visa, but a pre-travel clearance. Its purpose is to verify the traveller’s identity and background before arrival.
The ETA will be required for entry into the UK for tourism, business, short-term studies, or transit.
How to apply for the ETA?
The application process is fast, easy, and entirely online:
- Visit the official UK government website.
- Fill in the form with your personal and passport information
- Indicate your travel purpose and stay details
- Pay the application fee (around £10)
- Wait for confirmation via email (within 24 to 72 hours)
The ETA will be electronically linked to your passport and will remain valid for up to two years, or until your passport expires — whichever comes first.
Remember: You won’t be allowed to board a flight to the UK without a valid ETA, if your nationality requires it.
Do you need a visa to travel to London?
Whether or not you need a visa depends on your nationality and the purpose of your visit.
If you hold a Spanish passport
If you’re a Spanish citizen planning a stay of up to six months for tourism, business, or short-term studies, you do not need a visa to travel to London. However, you will need to apply for the ETA starting in 2025.
This will allow you to enter the UK without further formalities, as long as you have no legal issues that require additional screening.
If you don’t hold a Spanish passport
If you are a citizen of a country outside the European Economic Area or not on the UK’s visa-exempt list, you may need a visa to travel to the UK.
In that case, you must:
- Check the official UK government website
- Confirm whether you need a visa for tourism, transit, work, or study
- Determine if you also need the ETA in addition to the visa
Learn more about London before you travel
Now that you know what you need to travel to London, it’s the perfect time to start planning your itinerary and dreaming about your adventure. The British capital has something for everyone — from world-famous landmarks like Big Ben and the London Eye, to hidden gems far from the tourist trail.
👉 To get the most out of your trip, we invite you to explore our official blog, where you’ll find insider tips, cultural events, local recommendations, and original ideas to experience London like a true local.
📍And if you want to move around the city easily without missing any highlights, don’t forget to check out our hop on hop off bus routes. Hop on hop off and explore London at your own pace while enjoying the best views from the top deck.
