Introduction
The United Kingdom — often referred to as Britain — comprises four countries: England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. All but Northern Ireland are located on the island of Great Britain, the largest of the British Isles off the northwest coast of Europe. The island’s coastline varies greatly, with Dover’s white cliffs towering over the English Channel in the south and Scotland’s sandy dunes and salt marshes in the north. With the coast no more than 70 miles from any point, the sea has played a major role in the country’s political, economic and military development over the past 500 years.
There are many unsettled, beautiful, natural areas in the United Kingdom. Hills and mountains are found throughout the countries: the Brecon Beacons in Wales, the Peak District, the Lake District in Cumbria, the Pennines in the Scottish lowlands and the majestic Highlands to the far north. Charming villages, small towns and historic cities can be found throughout. In many areas, new building growth continues to reflect the traditional architecture of the region, providing a harmonious blend between the old and new.
The government in the United Kingdom is a constitutional monarchy. King Charles III is the reigning monarch, and Keir Starmer serves as prime minister. The legislative branch includes Parliament, consisting of the House of Lords and the House of Commons, and the Northern Ireland Assembly. During the late 1990s, political changes occurred that gave Scotland and Wales more autonomy regarding their local political rule. This process of “devolution” resulted in the establishment of a Scottish Parliament in Edinburgh and a Welsh Assembly in Cardiff. Both nations are still part of the United Kingdom and participate fully in matters concerning the whole kingdom.
France
France is the largest of the Western European countries. It is divided into 22 administrative regions, many of which are based on historical divisions. France’s geography is extremely diverse. Five mountain ranges, lush plains, vine-covered hillsides, sun-drenched beaches, and mighty rivers comprise France’s landscape. One can ski down snow-capped mountains, glide along peaceful canals, sit at a street-side café, rest under the shade of ancient olive trees, or walk through historic battlefields without leaving its borders. The French maintain strong regional identities – each region has its own culinary tradition, architecture, geography, and often dialect.
France has a long history of being a key player in the European balance of power. From the “Sun King” Louis XIV in the 1600s to Napoleon following the French Revolution, France’s power and influence spread across the European continent, and for a time, to colonies around the globe.
France’s domestic political and social instability leading up to the First World War led to a rejection of aristocratic convention and the development of Impressionist art for which France is so famous. The stalemate of trench warfare in WWI resulted in terrible loss of life on the Western Front and paved the way for the emergence of the Surrealist movement championed by poet Andre Breton and artist Marcel Duchamp.
Emerging from a repeated invasion by Germany in WWII, France today is a modern country with influential roles in numerous global organizations including the United Nations Security Council, European Union, NATO, and the G-8 Council. Its reconciliation and cooperation with Germany following World War II is a cornerstone of the economic integration of Europe in the 20th and 21st centuries.
Now in its Fifth Republic and Constitution, the government is a secular, democratic social republic, with a hybrid parliamentary system headed by the Prime Minister and President. France continues to advocate its liberal values both at home and abroad, under the leadership of current president Emmanuel Macron.
Entry Requirements
All non-UK/Irish passport holders will be required to apply for Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to enter the country beginning January 8th, 2025.
Quick Facts
- Cost: £10 via credit card online
- Duration: Valid for two years from date of issue, or until passport expiration, whichever is sooner. Valid for multiple journeys. Must be valid for entirety of stay.
- Who needs it: Non-UK/Irish Citizens who do not have a valid visa.
- When to Apply: At least 3 working days in advance of travel.
- Processing Time: anywhere between 90 seconds – 3 business days. Occasionally longer.
You do not need the ETA if you have:
- a visa
- permission to live, work or study in the UK (including settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme)
- a British or Irish passport
- a British Overseas Territories citizen passport
- If you live in Ireland and are traveling to the UK from Ireland, you may be exempt. See this link for exemptions and proofs required.
What you will need to apply: Passport, contact information, photo of applicant, and method of payment. You will not be asked for travel details.
What the ETA looks like: ETA is digitally linked to your passport. There is no physical component necessary, but you are welcome to print out your confirmation for your records.
Will airlines require proof of ETA: Yes, airlines will need to confirm travelers have obtained ETA from 8 January 2025 for flights to, or through, the UK.
Does ETA have any connection to ETIAS: ETIAS is the European Travel Information and Authorization System. ETIAS is a similar travel authorization for the EU, but is separate from ETA and is not relevant for the UK. The current expectation is for ETIAS to launch in the late 2026.
Language
While in France, with the exception of tourist areas, you may find that locals speak limited English. We recommend that you learn some frequently used phrases, many of which we have compiled for you.
We also we recommend that you visit the Berlitz website if you are interested in learning French or refreshing your knowledge.
Travel Advice for Country
The U.S. State Department uses Travel Advisories to provide travelers with safety and security information. A Travel Advisory is now issued for every country with a designated Level of Advice ranging from 1 to 4 – from Exercise Normal Precautions (1) to Do Not Travel (4). Follow this link to read more about security and safety in England. Follow this link to read more about security and safety in France. For a complete list of all advisory levels around the world, please click here.
The U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs has gathered comprehensive information about international travel on its website travel.state.gov. It is an excellent resource, and we encourage you to read the information it contains.