UK Visitor Visa and ETA Changes – What the October 2025 Immigration Update Means for Travellers

On 14 October 2025, the Home Office released Statement of Changes HC 1333, amending two key sections of the Immigration Rules:

• Appendix ETA National List, and
• Appendix Visitor – Visa National List.

These updates affect millions of travellers worldwide, marking the next stage in the UK’s shift toward a fully digital border system. From early 2025, most visitors—whether business, tourist, or family—will need either a Visitor Visa or an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before departure.

At AHJ Immigration, our advisers help clients interpret these rule changes and plan their travel or visa applications correctly.

What Changed in October 2025

The latest update primarily:

1. Expands the ETA system to almost all visa-exempt nationals, including EU/EEA citizens from April 2025.
2. Deletes the old Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW) scheme for Gulf Co-operation Council states.
3. Clarifies exceptions in the Visitor Visa National List—such as Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan passport holders.
4. Introduces a short grace period for Botswana nationals booked to travel before 25 November 2025.

The ETA National List – Who Needs Electronic Authorisation

Under Appendix ETA National List (ETANL 1.1), all travellers from historically visa-free countries will gradually require an ETA.

An ETA is a digital travel permission linked to your passport. It is required even for short trips (tourism, transit, business meetings, or visiting family).

The Visitor Visa National List – Who Still Needs a Visa

The Visitor Visa National List (VN 1.1) identifies nationals who must hold a Visitor Visa before arriving. It includes over 110 countries such as Afghanistan, India, Pakistan, Nigeria, China, and South Africa.

Key points from the update:

• EVW paragraphs VN 3 – VN 6 are deleted (replaced by ETA).
• Exceptions retained for Hong Kong SAR, Macao SAR, Taiwan (ID card number shown), and Vatican service/diplomatic passports.
• Grace clause (VN 2.2 r) allows Botswana citizens booked before 15:00 BST on 14 October 2025 to enter visa-free until 25 November 2025.
• School-trip exemption (VN 7) remains for pupils under 18 from registered French schools travelling in groups of five or more.

ETA vs Visitor Visa – Understanding the Difference

Impact on Travellers and Businesses

• EU citizens will lose automatic visa-free entry from 2 April 2025 and must apply for an ETA before boarding.
• GCC nationals using the old EVW must switch to ETA for all visits after 22 February 2024.
• Airlines and travel agents must verify ETA status before check-in.
• Frequent travellers (such as business delegates and family visitors) are advised to apply well in advance to avoid disruption.

What These Changes Mean for Visa Applicants

If you are from a visa-national country, these updates don’t remove your visa requirement—but they may change how your visa is processed. The Home Office continues its move toward digital immigration status; biometric residence permits will eventually be phased out in favour of online UKVI accounts.

For others who previously travelled visa-free, the ETA acts as a pre-clearance check—ensuring security and border readiness before departure.

How AHJ Immigration Can Help

Our experienced immigration consultants provide:

• Eligibility checks to see if you need an ETA or a Visitor Visa;
• Guidance on documents and online applications;
• Business travel planning for frequent flyers and employers;
• Appeal support if a Visitor Visa is refused.

We simplify complex Home Office changes and keep you compliant with every rule update.

Why Choose AHJ Immigration

• OISC-regulated consultants specialising in UK visa law.
• Fast response service for urgent travel cases.
• Free 30-Minute Consultation to assess your options.
• 1-Hour Paid Consultation for in-depth case review (deducted from final fee).
• Serving clients nationwide from our Birmingham office.

📞 Call 0121 828 2224 or Book Your Consultation Online to discuss your travel plans.

Disclaimer

Immigration rules and travel requirements are subject to change. Information is accurate as of October 2025 and based on Statement of Changes HC 1333 (14 October 2025). Always verify via GOV.UK before travelling.

FAQs

1. Who needs a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)?
From 2025 onwards, all visa-exempt nationals—including EU citizens—must obtain an ETA before travelling to the UK for tourism or short visits. Irish citizens are exempt.

2. When do EU citizens need an ETA to enter the UK?
From 2 April 2025, EU, EEA and Swiss nationals must hold a valid ETA before boarding any flight to the UK.

3. What happened to the Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW)?
The EVW scheme for GCC countries was deleted in October 2025 and replaced by the new ETA system.

4. Do Botswana nationals need a UK visa now?
Yes—unless they booked before 15 October 2025 and arrive by 25 November 2025 under the temporary grace rule.

5. I’m unsure if I need an ETA or a Visa—what should I do?
Contact AHJ Immigration for a free consultation. We’ll check your nationality against the updated lists and advise on the correct application.