Last update: 10 May 2025

UK ETA for Netherlands Citizens

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UK ETA for Netherlands Citizens — UKETE.org

UK ETA is a digital travel authorisation that allows citizens from ETA-eligible countries, including the Netherlands, to enter the United Kingdom for short stays. It is mandatory for all visa-free travellers entering the UK.

The latest UK ETA news confirms that the ETA launch date for Europeans is 5 March 2025 for travel on or after 2 April 2025. After this date, Dutch citizens must obtain an ETA before visiting the UK.

The UK ETA improves border security and simplifies entry for Dutch travellers. Applications are submitted online and screened through UK immigration and security databases. Most applications are approved automatically unless a manual review is required.

With an approved ETA, Dutch citizens can stay in the UK for up to 6 months for various permitted purposes.

  • Tourism, holidays and sightseeing
  • Visiting family or friends
  • Business meetings, events or conferences
  • Short-term study up to 6 months
  • Creative Worker activities up to 3 months
  • Permitted Paid Engagements
  • Transit through the UK (airside or landside)

Dutch Visitor Statistics to the United Kingdom

In 2023, the UK welcomed approximately 2 million visitors from the Netherlands, contributing around £1.1 billion in expenditure, averaging £571 per visit.

These numbers show a strong post-pandemic recovery and underline the importance of Dutch tourism to the UK economy.

Benefits of the UK ETA for Netherlands Citizens

The UK ETA simplifies travel for Dutch visitors by offering a fast and efficient system. Key benefits include:

Quick & Easy Application

Dutch citizens can complete the ETA application fully online with no paperwork or in-person appointments.

Cost-Effective

Compared to traditional visas, the ETA is an affordable option for short-term UK visits.

Streamlined Travel

Once approved, the ETA is digitally linked to the passport, enabling smooth entry at UK borders.

Multiple Travel Purposes

ETA covers tourism, business trips, short courses, creative work, and family visits for up to 6 months.

UK ETA Eligibility Criteria for Dutch Citizens

Dutch citizens must meet the following criteria to qualify for a UK ETA. Travellers who do not meet these conditions may require a standard UK visa instead.

1

Stay of Six Months or Less

Dutch travellers must intend to visit the UK for no longer than six months.

2

No Criminal Record

Applicants must not have serious criminal convictions or pending charges.

3

Valid Passport

A valid Dutch passport must be presented for the entire duration of the stay.

4

Permissible Purpose of Visit

Travellers must visit for approved purposes such as tourism, business, or short study.

5

Sufficient Financial Means

Applicants must show they can financially support themselves during their stay.

6

Compliance with Immigration Rules

Travellers must not have a history of UK entry refusal or immigration breaches.

7

No History of Overstaying

Applicants must not have previously overstayed or violated UK immigration laws.

UK ETA Validity and Duration of Stay

The UK ETA is typically valid for 2 years or until the passport expires — whichever comes first. Dutch citizens can make multiple trips during this validity period.

Each visit allows a maximum stay of 6 months. Longer stays, work, or settlement require a different UK visa.

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UK ETA requirements

To apply for a UK ETA, all eligible travelers are required to meet certain basic criteria. Below are the mandatory requirements that every applicant must provide:

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1

Passport

Applicants must have a valid passport from an eligible country, preferably with two years of validity.

Personal Photo

Applicants must submit a recent upper-body photo that meets official specifications.

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3

Payment Method

Applicants must have a valid card or access to Apple Pay or Google Pay to pay the ETA UK fee.

Email address

Applicants must provide a valid email address to receive their UK ETA upon approval.

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How to Apply for a UK ETA as an Netherlands Citizen?

Applying for a UK ETA through UKETE.org is simple and user-friendly. Netherlands citizens can complete their ETA application online by following the steps below:

  • Step 01
    Fill Out the ETA Application Form

    Start by completing the online ETA application form. Enter your personal details such as full name, passport information, date of birth, and contact number accurately.

  • Step 02
    Upload Required Documents

    Upload a clear scanned copy of your valid Netherlands passport and a recent passport-style photograph. UKETE.org will display the size and format guidelines during the upload process.

  • Step 03
    Pay Your ETA Application Fee

    You can securely complete your payment using any of the following methods:

    • Credit or debit card
    • Apple Pay
    • Google Pay
  • Step 04
    Review and Submit Your Application

    Carefully review all details before submitting. The application must be completed in one session as the system does not save partial progress. If the application is inactive for more than 20 minutes, it will automatically reset and you will need to restart the process.

  • Step 05
    Receive Your Approved ETA

    Once processed, your UK ETA will be delivered directly to your email. If the ETA is not approved, you will also receive an email with further information or next steps.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, as a Dutch citizen, you will need an ETA to travel to the UK for short stays such as tourism, business, or short-term study. The ETA allows citizens of the Netherlands (and other eligible countries) to enter the UK without needing a visa for visits up to six months.

Dutch citizens were previously able to travel to the UK visa-free. However, starting April 2025, Dutch travellers must apply for a UK ETA before travelling for tourism, business, or other short-term stays.

ETA stands for Electronic Travel Authorisation. It is an online travel authorisation system that allows eligible travellers, including Dutch citizens, to enter the UK for short stays without applying for a traditional visa.

The UK ETA is valid for two years from the date of approval. During this time, Dutch citizens may enter the UK multiple times, but each visit cannot exceed six months.

To apply for a UK ETA, fill the online application form, upload your passport and a photo, and pay the ETA processing fee. Most applications are processed within 24–72 hours, and approval is emailed to you.

The ETA scheme was first launched in 2023 for Qatar, followed by more GCC countries in 2024. In 2025, citizens of the Netherlands and many other EU, GCC, and Oceania countries are required to obtain an ETA for short-term visits to the UK.

The ETA is a digital travel authorisation required for travellers from ETA-eligible countries. It streamlines travel while improving UK border security and allows short-term visits without needing a visa.

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