ETA for train or ferry travel to the UK: will it be mandatory in 2025?
In 2025, the requirement to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA ) will apply to all visa-exempt travellers , regardless of the means of transport used to enter the UK. Contrary to popular belief, this rule also applies to journeys by train (Eurostar) or ferry (Calais – Dover, etc.) .
1. ETA is mandatory even without a plane
Arriving in the UK by a means other than air? No problem, but the exemption does not apply:
- Travel by Eurostar from Paris, Lille, Brussels or Amsterdam
- Ferry crossing from Calais, Dunkirk, Cherbourg, etc.
- Land entry via Northern Ireland (from the Republic of Ireland)
Regardless of your journey, if you are a citizen of a country covered by the ETA, you must obtain it before departure .
2. What documents should I present when traveling?
Here's what you need to have on you:
- Your valid passport (same as for ETA application)
- An electronic copy or screenshot of the ETA approval (optional but recommended)
- Standard traveler documents (return ticket, proof of accommodation, etc.)
The ETA is electronically linked to your passport , so there is no need to print it.
3. Checks on arrival: train and ferry = same rules
When you arrive at the Eurostar terminal or seaport , you will pass through a UK border control post . Officers may:
- Scan your passport to check the validity of your ETA
- Ask you questions about your stay (accommodation, duration, financial resources, etc.)
- Refuse entry in case of lack of documents or unclear answers
Tip : prepare a clear file with your proof of stay.
4. Is the ETA valid for multiple trips?
Yes. An ETA is valid for 2 years or until your passport expires. It therefore allows multiple entries , even when alternating modes of transport: ferry, train or plane.
5. What are the risks without ETA?
Travelling to the UK without an ETA when it is required can result in:
- Denied boarding (Eurostar or ferry)
- Refusal of entry by British authorities
- Sanctions or temporary bans on stay
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do children need an ETA for ferry travel?
Yes. All travelers, including minors , must have a valid ETA unless exempt based on their status.
Can I use my ETA if I have booked multiple tickets (Eurostar + ferry)?
Yes, the ETA is multimodal . It is linked to your identity (via your passport), not your ticket. As long as it is valid, it works for all journeys to the UK.
Is it more difficult to cross the border by ferry than by plane?
No, the screening procedures are the same for all ports of entry: plane, train, ferry. It's your documents and your answers that will make the difference.
How long before my departure should I apply for an ETA?
It is recommended to do this at least 72 hours before travel to avoid any unforeseen events or delayed processing.
Can you enter the UK through Ireland without an ETA?
No. If you are transiting from the Republic of Ireland to Northern Ireland , you must also have an ETA , except for specific exceptions (UK residents, visa holders, etc.).
7. Additional articles:
To prepare for a smooth border crossing regardless of the mode of transport:
ETA and transit (train, ferry, airport) – Airside transit vs. entry into the territory.
Documents required for an ETA application – Documents to prepare before departure.
ETA UK: Multiple entries and successive returns – Frequent return journeys by train/ferry.
ETA: Arrival Security Checks – Useful Questions and Evidence.
Risks of traveling without an ETA – Consequences when boarding.
For a secure ETA application
Use the visaeta.com service to benefit from personalized support at each stage:
- Simple and secure form
- Manual verification of your information before submission
- Tool for tracking your request
- Responsive support 7 days a week
- Possibility to make multiple requests viathe same form on Visaeta.com
- Step-by-step support
