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The new UK ETA System

Starting in 2025, the UK is introducing the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, of significant importance for those travelling internationally for business. This new digital travel permit applies to visitors from visa-free countries, including European Union citizens, and impacts short-term business visits. From April 2, 2025, EU nationals will need an ETA. If your business involves frequent trips to the UK, understanding this new system is important for smooth travels.
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Here’s a breakdown of what this means for your business, and how you can stay ahead of the changes.

What is the ETA, and why does this matter?

The ETA is not a visa but a digital travel permission for short stays. It’s simple to apply for, costs £10, and remains valid for two years, allowing multiple entries for stays of up to six months per visit. The 180-day (6-month) rule refers to the maximum duration of stay per visit, not per year. For businesses, this is more than a formality. It introduces an additional administrative step for your international sales team, export managers, or directors traveling to the UK for meetings, events, or market exploration. While it’s straightforward, it’s an extra step that needs to be done in advance or avoid delays.

Key challenges and recommendations for Businesses

Prepare your trips in advance and organise your personal ETA in March 2025. ETA decisions typically take three working days but can take longer if additional checks are needed. Late applications could delay business trips. Even if employees only have a layover in the UK, they will still need an ETA, adding preparation for connecting flights. In other words if you are traveling to the US and have a stopover in London, you need to organise your ETA. Ensure employees are aware of the process and requirements, including the use of the UK ETA app for faster results.

Boost Business: your local commercial professional

With the ETA system adding new layers to international travel, having a local presence in the UK is more important than ever. Boost Business provides local commercial professionals who live in the UK, understand the UK market, speak the language, and can build relationships with key players. Our boosters represent your business, drive sales, and create local partnerships — minimising your need to travel.

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Ready to explore your options? Let’s discuss how we can bring apply these trends into your business.

The benefits of internationalizing to the UK for Dutch businesses

Expanding your business abroad can be an exciting and profitable venture. For Dutch businesses, the UK presents an attractive target. Let's explore the benefits of internationalizing to the UK, focusing on language and culture, the role as the primary export partner, and the business environment.

Language and culture

One of the biggest advantages of internationalizing to the UK is the shared language and cultural similarities. English serves as the global language of business and communication, simplifying interactions and relationship-building with English partners for Dutch businesses. Moreover, the historical trade relations between the Netherlands and the UK foster mutual understanding and respect, facilitating smoother transitions into the UK market and the establishment of strong, enduring business relationships.

Primary export partner

The UK stands as one of the primary export partners for the Netherlands. The robust and stable trade relations between the two countries have already established an infrastructure for trade and transportation, facilitating easier export of Dutch products and services to the UK. Additionally, the UK market offers a plethora of potential customers, significantly enhancing the chances of success and growth. A critical factor for success lies in establishing a solid legal setup, ensuring compliance with all local regulations for seamless business operations.

The business environment in the UK shares similarities with that of the Netherlands, easing the transition for Dutch businesses. Both countries value professionalism, punctuality, and transparency in business transactions. This means Dutch businesses do not need to make significant adjustments to their operations to succeed in the UK.

Nevertheless a strong local connection is essential for navigating the UK market and establishing valuable relationships with local partners. These connections can help in understanding local culture and business practices, crucial for the success of your business. Moreover, an effective marketing strategy ensures that your brand is well-positioned in the UK market. With targeted campaigns and local insights, you can better reach your target audience and increase your market share.

Business environment

Conclusion

Internationalizing to the UK offers numerous benefits for Dutch businesses, from shared language and culture to strong trade relations and similar business practices. By investing in a solid legal setup, establishing strong local connections, and implementing an effective marketing strategy, you can maximize these opportunities and successfully grow your business in the UK market. Take steps to capitalize on the opportunities that the UK has to offer and contact us to discover how we can assist you with your international expansion.

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