top of page
Search

A Swiss National’s Guide to the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) Scheme 2025

Updated: Mar 4


A Swiss National’s Guide to the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) Scheme 2025

In This Article


  1. Introduction to the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation Scheme

  2. What Is the UK ETA Scheme?

  3. Do Swiss Nationals Need an ETA to Travel to the UK?

  4. When Can Swiss Nationals Apply for a UK ETA?

  5. How to Apply for a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation

  6. Key Suitability Criteria for ETA Applications

  7. What to Do If Your UK ETA Application Is Refused

  8. Implications for Immigration Control

  9. How Richmond Chambers Can Help


1. Introduction to the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation Scheme


Starting 2 April 2025, Swiss nationals travelling to the UK as Visitors or Temporary Creative Workers for up to six months without a visa will need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). This requirement forms part of the UK government’s plan to enhance border security by pre-screening non-visa nationals before their arrival.


The ETA is a mandatory pre-arrival clearance designed to ensure that travellers meet the UK’s suitability requirements. If your ETA application is refused, it does not mean you are prohibited from entering the UK, but you will need to apply for a visa instead.


2. What Is the UK ETA Scheme?


The ETA scheme applies to nationals of visa-exempt countries, including Switzerland, and introduces a streamlined process for pre-travel screening. Applicants must satisfy eligibility and suitability criteria, which include criminal history, past immigration compliance, and other security considerations.


A refused ETA does not equate to a refusal of entry to the UK; however, it necessitates applying for a UK visa, which is a more detailed and potentially complex process.


3. Do Swiss Nationals Need an ETA to Travel to the UK?


Yes. Starting 2 April 2025, Swiss nationals traveling to the UK without a visa will require an ETA. This includes Swiss citizens planning to visit the UK as tourists, for family visits, or as Temporary Creative Workers under the Temporary Work – Creative Worker visa concession.


If you hold a different UK immigration status, such as a visa or residence permit, you will not need an ETA.


4. When Can Swiss Nationals Apply for a UK ETA?


Swiss nationals can submit their ETA applications starting 5 March 2025 for travel on or after 2 April 2025.


5. How to Apply for a UK ETA


Swiss nationals can apply for an ETA via the UK’s online platform or mobile app. To complete the application, you will need:


  • A valid Swiss passport

  • A digital passport photo

  • Personal and contact details

  • £10 application fee

  • Answers to suitability questions


6. Key Suitability Criteria for ETA Applications


An ETA application may be refused if you:


  • Have a criminal conviction with a custodial sentence of 12 months or more.

  • Overstayed previous UK immigration permissions.

  • Provided false information or documents in past applications.

  • Owe unpaid charges to the NHS or litigation costs to the UK government.


Swiss nationals with complex immigration histories or previous refusals may benefit from professional legal advice before applying.


7. What to Do If Your UK ETA Application Is Refused


If your ETA application is refused, you may still be able to enter the UK by applying for a visa, such as a:


  • Standard Visitor Visa

  • Creative Worker Visa


The visa application process is more comprehensive, and we recommend seeking expert legal advice to maximize your chances of success.


8. Implications for Immigration Control


The ETA scheme strengthens UK border controls but also introduces the risk of errors in decision-making by the Home Office. Swiss nationals denied an ETA due to mistakes or misjudgments should not be discouraged—visa applications may still be viable, and legal expertise can help navigate the process.


9. How Richmond Chambers Switzerland Can Help


Richmond Chambers Switzerland offers specialist immigration law advice to Swiss nationals applying for a UK ETA or a visa following an ETA refusal. Contact our Switzerland-based immigration lawyers for expert assistance with:


  • Preparing a strong ETA application

  • Challenging an ETA refusal

  • Applying for a UK visa


Call us on +41 21 588 07 70 or get in touch via our contact form.

bottom of page