If you’re traveling across Europe, then flying with Wizz Air is a popular choice. But before you board the aircraft, here’s something to note.
The UK government is rolling out a new entry requirement: the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). Overall, this new scheme affects millions of passengers, including passengers on low-cost airlines like Wizz Air.
If you’re flying to the UK soon, then you must understand what the ETA requirements are. Read on to learn more.
What Is the UK ETA?
The UK ETA is a pre-travel digital permission for certain travelers to enter the United Kingdom. Correspondingly, it’s part of the UK’s plan to modernize border control.
Specifically, the ETA is similar to the US ESTA or Canada’s eTA system. Although it’s not a visa, it works like a pre-screening requirement.
If you’re from a non-visa country, then you’ll need to apply before your trip whether you’re flying via Wizz Air or not. Correspondingly, this includes many passengers flying from Europe.
Notably, the ETA allows UK authorities to check your identity and travel history before you travel. Specifically, it aims to improve security and reduce delays at border control.
Flying Via Wizz Air
Not every traveler flying Wizz Air will need an ETA—but many will. In particular, if you’re a citizen of a visa-exempt country—like EU countries, the US, Canada, Australia, or Japan—then you’ll need to apply.
Generally, Wizz Air passengers often come from Hungary, Poland, Romania, Bulgaria, and other European countries that fall under the ETA requirement.
This rule applies whether you’re traveling for tourism, business, or simply transiting through the UK. Even if you’re only in the UK for a layover, you still need an ETA, depending if you’re passing through border control.
In addition, Wizz Air flies to multiple UK airports, including London Luton, Gatwick, Birmingham, and Edinburgh. Every one of these airports enforce the ETA policy.
How to Apply for ETA
The application process for the UK ETA is fast and fully online. Here’s a simple breakdown before you fly via Wizz Air:
Step 1: Visit the EVS platform.
It simplifies the ETA application process so you can avoid going through complex visa processes.
At EVS, your personal and travel information remains safe and secure with its strict data protection regulations. Moreover, it provides you with expert guidance and seamless support to ensure a stress-free application journey.
Step 2: Upload a passport photo.
Specifically, it must have a plain, light-colored background without any shadows or objects behind you.
Step 3: Upload a scan or photo of your passport information page.
Ensure the full passport photo page is inside the frame, including the two lines of numbers and letters at the bottom. Additionally, the pass-port must be valid for at least six months upon entering and exiting the UK.
Step 4: Provide your personal information:
- Contact details
- Home address
- Employment information
- Citizenship information
- Criminal
Overall, make sure that the information you provide matches what is on your passport.
Step 5: Review and confirm the information on your application.
Generally, you can pay using suitable electronic payment methods.
Step 6: Pay the application fee.
Step 7: Receive your UK ETA.
Next, you will receive an e-mail with the decision and the ETA will be linked to your passport digitally.
Once approved, your ETA is valid for multiple visits over a two-year period—or until your passport ex-pires.
Even if you’re not visiting the UK for tourism or business, you still need an ETA if your travel involves entry.
Ready to get started with your application? Then click the button below to obtain your ETA. The ETA is valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. During that time, you can travel to the UK multiple times. There’s no need to reapply for each trip as long as your ETA and passport are still valid.
Apply NowTips for Wizz Air Flyers
Overall, don’t leave your application until the last minute. Apply for your ETA at least one week before your flight, especially during busy travel seasons.
Remember that Wizz Air requires that all passengers have valid documents before boarding. If you arrive at the airport without an approved ETA, then you may be denied boarding.
Digital confirmation of your ETA will be linked to your passport. However, it’s a good idea to save the email or screenshot it. This avoids delays at check-in or immigration.
Common Issues and Tips
Here are some common mistakes that can delay or block your ETA approval:
- Entering the wrong passport number
- Uploading a low-quality or unclear photo
- Having a damaged or soon-to-expire passport
To avoid problems, double-check every detail before submitting the application.
If authorities refuse or delay the release of your ETA, then don’t reapply without first fixing the issue.
In addition, Wizz Air recommends checking government travel alerts before your trip. Hence, set up notifications to stay informed about any changes to entry requirements.
Wizz Air & ETA: The Bigger Picture
The ETA is part of the UK’s long-term digital border strategy. It allows for faster processing and better control over who enters the country. This system also helps identify potential threats in advance.
The ETA is also a response to similar systems in other countries. In particular, the EU will launch ETIAS in 2026, a digital entry pass for non-Schengen travelers. For now, the UK’s ETA makes early planning more important than ever.
Frequent travelers flying Wizz Air will need to adjust their routines to include the ETA in pre-flight planning.
Conclusion
The UK ETA is a small step in your travel plans—but skipping it could cancel your entire trip.
If you’re flying Wizz Air to the UK, then check if you need an ETA based on your nationality. If you do, apply via EVS.
Apply online, double-check your information, and confirm approval before your departure. This simple action ensures smooth boarding and hassle-free entry into the UK.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Wizz Air passengers need an ETA?
Yes, if you’re from a non-visa country like Poland or Romania, you’ll likely need an ETA to fly with Wizz Air to the UK. To check if you’re eligible, visit the EVS platform.
When should I apply for the ETA?
Apply weeks ahead of your travel date to avoid delays or denied boarding.
Can I re-enter the UK multiple times with one ETA?
Yes. The ETA allows multiple entries during its validity period.
What happens if I don’t have an ETA at the airport?
Wizz Air may deny boarding if your ETA isn’t approved before check-in.
What are the nationalities that can already apply for an ETA?
As of April 2025, the following nationalities can start applying for the ETA:
Non-European countries
- Antigua and Barbuda,
- Argentina,
- Australia,
- Bahamas,
- Barbados,
- Belize,
- Botswana,
- Brazil,
- Brunei,
- Canada,
- Chile,
- Costa Rica,
- Grenada,
- Guatemala,
- Guyana,
- Hong Kong,
- Marshall Islands,
- Mauritius,
- Mexico,
- Micronesia,
- Nauru,
- New Zealand,
- Nicaragua,
- Palau,
- Panama,
- Papua New Guinea,
- Paraguay,
- Peru,
- Saint Kitts and Nevis,
- Saint Lucia,
- Saint Vincent and the Grenadines,
- Samoa,
- Seychelles,
- Singapore,
- Solomon Islands,
- South Korea,
- Taiwan,
- Tonga,
- Trinidad and Tobago,
- Tuvalu,
- United States, and
- Uruguay
European Countries
- Andorra
- Austria
- Belgium
- Bulgaria
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Czechia
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Monaco
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania
- San Marino
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Vatican City
Can I apply for someone else?
Yes, you can submit applications for family members or others. But you must have their details and consent.
Does having a UK ETA guarantee entry?
No. Generally, the final decision will be up to UK border officers. Although the ETA allows you to travel, it doesn’t guarantee admission.
Photo: Facebook/Wizz Air
