Starting in 2025, MA Residents Will Need a Permit to Travel Here

Massachusetts history runs deep. As one of the first 13 states, Massachusetts has no shortage of historical landmarks from the Mayflower, Plymouth Rock, the USS Constitution, and many more. From stories of Paul Revere and John Hancock to the Boston Tea Party, Massachusetts has played an integral part in the country's history.

That rich history brings visitors in droves to Massachusetts. According to Visit Massachusetts, over 31 million people from all over the world visit the state annually, which brings in $24.2 billion in travel-related revenue, supporting $1.6 billion in state and local taxes and 153,200 jobs.

So we know travel to Massachusetts is alive and well and the industry continues to thrive, but a new law could affect residents trying to travel out of the state.

According to new information from the U.S. State Department, Massachusetts residents, along with all U.S. citizens, will need to take an extra step if they are planning on traveling to the United Kingdom.

Beginning Jan. 8, 2025, American citizens will need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to enter England, Scotland or Wales.

U.S. citizens transiting through or traveling to the United Kingdom for tourism, family visits, business meetings, conferences, or short-term study for six months or less will require an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) prior to travel.

Folks will be required to apply for an ETA in addition to their normal passport and travel documents. An ETA covers travel to the U.K. for up to six months without a visa, whether that be for tourism, visiting family and friends, business etc.

So how exactly do you apply for this ETA? You can apply online and will be required to upload a photo of yourself in addition to a photo of your passport. The application itself will cost you around $13