Biometrics and ETA UK 2025: data, security and procedure
In 2025, the United Kingdom will strengthen border controls using biometrics , which will become a pillar of the issuance of Electronic Travel Authorizations (ETAs) . This technology helps secure travelers' identities and limit entry fraud.
What is biometrics in the context of ETA?
Biometrics refers to the set of unique biological characteristics of an individual, used to confirm their identity. In the context of an ETA application, this may include:
- fingerprints
- automated facial recognition
- iris scanning
- typing dynamics or voice (less common)
This data is processed automatically or upon entry into the territory.
Why is biometrics linked to ETA?
The UK Home Office uses biometrics to:
- fight against false identity documents
- improve the speed of border crossings
- strengthen security controls
Some ETA applications may therefore require biometric verification before or upon arrival in the UK .
When are biometrics required in an ETA application?
In most cases, the ETA process is completed 100% online. However, specific cases may trigger biometric collection:
- Traveler from a country with high migration risk
- Presence of migration history in the United Kingdom
- Document matching issues
In these situations, you will be notified automatically during the application process.
Biometric Data Security
The data is processed under the control of two legal frameworks:
- Data Protection Act 2018
- General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)
They are :
- collected only by theHome Office or its approved service providers
- never resold or used for other purposes
- deleted or anonymized after the legal period
Practical advice for travelers
- Check the biometric eligibility requirements according to your nationality
- Prepare identity documents in excellent condition
- Only use official centers if a collection is requested
- Keep your receipts and consent documents
- Use a reliable platform like visaeta.com to avoid any errors.
Personalized support with visaeta.com
To guide you through this delicate process, visaeta.com offers:
- a simple and secure form
- manual verification of information before submission
- a tool for tracking the status of the application
- responsive customer service 7 days a week
- step-by-step support