US Citizens transit through Heathrow airport, need to apply for ETA?

[jefkorn]

Do US citizens require ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) to transit through London Heathrow airport? It was a new rule that went into effect recently but I'm seeing exemption on a temporary basis. Anyone has recently travelled and what's been your experience? Thank you!

https://www.gov.uk/government/news/next-steps-for-a-more-efficient-immigration-system
"The introduction of ETAs is in line with the approach to border security taken by many other countries, including the USA and Australia.
However, following feedback from the aviation industry, the government has agreed a temporary exemption for passengers who transit airside, and therefore do not pass through UK border control.
This move will primarily affect Heathrow and Manchester airports, as the only UK airports which currently offer transit facilities. The exemption will be kept under review."

 

[SusieQQQ]

Current UK official page on ETAs says

You do not need an ETA to transit through the UK if you will not pass through border control (‘airside’ transit).

Get an electronic travel authorisation (ETA) to visit the UK

Apply for an ETA to come to the UK if you’re a tourist, visiting family or for certain other reasons for up to 6 months. It costs £16. Find out if you need an ETA or a visa instead.

www.gov.uk

 

[jefkorn]

Thank you for your reply. May I ask what does this actually mean?

You do not need an ETA to transit through the UK if you will not pass through border control (‘airside’ transit).

If I'm connecting to another flight and not getting out of the airport, I assume that means I'm not going through border control?

 

[SusieQQQ]

Thank you for your reply. May I ask what does this actually mean?

You do not need an ETA to transit through the UK if you will not pass through border control (‘airside’ transit).

If I'm connecting to another flight and not getting out of the airport, I assume that means I'm not going through border control?

Correct. Airside transit means you don’t go through passport control (although you will go through security again at Heathrow for your connection).

 

[sarahkhan]

As far as I know, US citizens generally don’t need a UK ETA if they’re just transiting through Heathrow and not passing through UK border control. If you stay in the international transit area and have a confirmed onward ticket, you should be fine. But it’s always best to double-check with your airline or the official UK government website, just in case your situation is different.


Safe travels!

 

[SusieQQQ]

As far as I know, US citizens generally don’t need a UK ETA if they’re just transiting through Heathrow and not passing through UK border control. If you stay in the international transit area and have a confirmed onward ticket, you should be fine. But it’s always best to double-check with your airline or the official UK government website, just in case your situation is different.


Safe travels!

Are you a real person? The posts above DID show the official UK government website.

 

[cafeconleche]

I recommend EVERYONE get a super cheap and easy ETA before flying through the UK. You never know if you'll need it, and again, it's cheap and quick, and lasts for up to 2 years.