Business Travel Experts Share Tips for a Smooth UK Arrival

With the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) fee for travellers visiting the UK set to increase, experts have outlined the potential impact on business travellers. 

The UK government is reportedly planning to increase the ETA from £16 to £20, following a previous 60% rise from £10 to £16 that came into effect in April 2025.¹

The corporate travel experts at Booking.com for Business have outlined what business travellers need to know about the change and offered tips for a smooth arrival to the UK. 

How will the ETA fee increase impact business travel?

The primary impact for business travellers will be the added costs. These must be factored into financial planning to maximise ROI for any upcoming company trips. While a £4 increase for one traveller may not seem significant, the difference can add up quickly across multiple travellers in the business taking multiple work trips throughout the year. And when you add this on top of business flights, accommodation, and car hire, spending must be carefully managed. 

Another thing to note is that the fee will likely rise over time in line with inflation. But it isn’t just entry to the UK that is being affected; the US equivalent, ESTA, has also seen a significant recent price hike, almost doubling from $21 to $40 in September 2025.²

The experts at Booking.com for Business offer tips for a business travel experience:

Know your purpose: One of the first questions asked at border control is ‘what is the purpose of your trip. And a common answer that could lead to additional questioning is to state ‘for work’ when you’re travelling on an ETA. Yet this could lead to additional questioning, because with this type of document, you’re not allowed to perform labour or provide services for UK businesses. Be more specific when stating your purpose, whether it’s attending a conference or a training session. Keep answers short and to the point.

Keep documents handy: Gathering supporting documents is an important part of corporate travel planning, and you should have these close by when called to the immigration desk. This starts with your passport and ETA, but should also include things like an official company letter stating the purpose of this trip, along with evidence of financial resources and a return plane ticket home. 

Be prepared for digital searches: Whilst having your devices searched is unlikely, technically, Customs and Border Patrol have the authority to inspect electronic devices at the border. Employees should consult their company’s best practices for digital security while travelling. For example, taking a work device may not be recommended if it contains sensitive data.