London Marathon 2025: Everything You Need to Know About ETA Before You Travel
London Marathon is one of the largest and most prestigious running events in the world. In 2025, over 56,000 participants will line up at the start, and thousands of supporters from around the globe will gather on the streets of London to cheer on both the world’s elite and amateurs running for their own causes. If you’re planning to take part in this unique event or want to support your loved ones, you must remember the new entry requirement—the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).
What is ETA and who needs it?
The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a digital entry permit to the United Kingdom, introduced to streamline border control and increase security. ETA applies to those traveling for tourism, business, sports, or transit purposes. From April 2, 2025, this requirement also covers European Union citizens, including Poles. Every traveler, including children, must have their own ETA if they do not have a visa or settled status in the UK. Only British and Irish citizens, holders of a valid UK visa or residence permit, and residents of Ireland entering the UK from Irish territory are exempt from the ETA requirement.
How to obtain an ETA? Step by step
The ETA application process is convenient and fully electronic:
1. Submit your application online – via the official UK ETA app or government website.
2. Complete the form with your passport details and travel information. You’ll need a biometric passport valid for at least 6 months and a passport photo (children under 9 do not need to provide a photo).
3. Pay the fee – currently £10. Note: from April 9, 2025, the fee will increase to £16.
4. You will usually receive a decision within a few minutes, up to a maximum of 3 working days – in practice, many people get approval almost instantly.
5. The ETA confirmation is automatically linked to your passport – you do not need to print any documents.
If you change your passport, you must apply for a new ETA.
ETA validity
The ETA is valid for 2 years or until your passport expires – whichever comes first. During this period, you can travel to the UK multiple times without reapplying, as long as you do not change your travel document.
What to remember before traveling to the London Marathon?
• Apply for your ETA well in advance to avoid stress at the airport and unpleasant surprises.
• Every traveler, including children, must have a separate authorization.
• The information in your application must exactly match your passport – errors may result in refusal of entry.
• Pay for your ETA only through official channels – using intermediaries can mean additional, often high, fees.
Why is it worth arranging your ETA early?
Having a valid ETA allows you to fully focus on your training, picking up your race pack, and enjoying the marathon atmosphere without the stress of formalities. It’s a key part of your travel preparations that will make your journey and participation in the event much easier.
Learn more about the London Marathon – check out other resources!
Want to know more about the course, organization, training tips, and reports from the London Marathon?
Visit the main category! London Marathon on WorldMarathoner.com. There you’ll find practical guides, inspiration, and the latest information to help you prepare for this exceptional race!
Summary
ETA is a modern and convenient system that, from 2025, also applies to Polish and European Union citizens. The application is submitted online, and you can receive a decision in just a few minutes. Take care of the formalities in advance and focus on what matters most—your running adventure in the heart of London!
