Portugal to United Kingdom visa requirements

Portuguese passport holders do not need a visa for a short UK visit, but since 2 April 2025 they must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before travelling. It costs GBP 20 and allows visits of up to 6 months. A Portugal ordinary passport holder cannot enter the UK visa-free anymore by simply showing up — as an EU national you now need a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for tourism and short visits of up to 6 months. EU, EEA and Swiss nationals became able to apply from 2 April 2025, and the requirement is fully enforced from 25 February 2026. The ETA is applied for online via the UK ETA app or GOV.UK, costs GBP 20 (raised from GBP 16 on 8 April 2026), and is digitally linked to your passport. It permits multiple visits of up to 6 months each and is valid for 2 years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. Most applicants get an automatic decision within minutes; you should apply at least 3 working days before travel. The ETA is not a visa and does not guarantee entry — a Border Force officer makes the final admission decision. Irish citizens and those with existing UK immigration status do not need an ETA.