From April 2, 2025, the UK will introduce a new ETA for nationals of all EU countries, including Bulgaria, who did not require a visa. Despite the established visa-free regime, Bulgarian citizens wishing to travel to the UK for a short period of up to 6 months for tourism, private visit or business travel must obtain an ETA in advance, without which they will not be allowed to enter the country from April 2, 2025.
The permit will be valid for 2 years or until the expiry of the passport (whichever comes first) and will authorize multiple trips of up to 6 months. Once a new passport is obtained, a new ETA authorization will be required as it is tied to the appropriate travel document.
The procedure is done completely online. A valid passport, a credit or debit card with a £10 fee and a valid email address are required. In most cases a decision on the application will be received within 3 working days. EU nationals who cannot produce a valid ETA when checking in for a flight, train or ferry will not be allowed to board the vehicle. At the same time it should be remembered that having an ETA does not guarantee entry to the UK.
