Don't overlook this travel permit requirement for Europe cruises
If you're planning a cruise through Europe this summer, it's a good time to double check that you've included any necessary travel entry requirements on your pre-cruise checklist.
Many travelers heading to Europe for a cruise, including U.S. citizens, are required to obtain pre-clearance for travel, depending on the countries they're visiting. Last year, a new travel entry requirement went into effect that impacted many travelers taking cruises departing from or visiting the U.K.
As the European cruise season gets underway, passengers preparing for sailings in the region should confirm whether they need the new U.K. travel permit now to avoid the chance that an oversight could negatively impact their vacation.
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ETA travel permit now required for UK cruises
In an April 6 Facebook video, Carnival Cruise Line Brand Ambassador John Heald discussed the travel permit requirement, which impacts passengers booked on the cruise line's Europe sailings to and from Dover, England. Heald confirmed that an electronic travel authorization (ETA) is required for most cruise passengers traveling to the U.K. and it's not included with cruise bookings. Passengers must apply for it on their own with the U.K government.
"We have sent information and we will send everybody reminders way before each European cruise. I'm going to post the website for you to apply. We don't cover the cost of the visa. It's not free," Heald noted.
Related: Passport tips and secrets for cruising
A digital permission to travel to the U.K., an ETA is required for visitors of all ages who do not have a U.K. visa. As of April 8, the cost to apply for an ETA is £20 (about $26).
Travelers can apply for an ETA via the UK ETA app or online at GOV.UK. Cruise passengers should apply for an ETA at least several days before traveling to the U.K. as it may take up to three working days to process.
ETA is required to enter UK by air or sea
Whether you're departing for a cruise from a U.K. port like Dover or Southampton, visiting the U.K. on a cruise departing from another country, or flying into a U.K. airport for a trip, you must obtain an ETA ahead of time.
"Remember, you don't just need it to be on the cruise. You have to have it when you land at Heathrow Airport or Gatwick Airport, depending where you're coming into the United Kingdom for this cruise, which does leave from Dover," Heald reminded Carnival cruisers. "So, you'll need to show the United Kingdom immigration officers. And if you go and you don't have a visa, you say, ‘Carnival never told me'…well, it won't be easy to get into the country."
Related: Carnival's 2027 Europe cruises include epic solar eclipse sailing
Carnival Legend will sail Carnival's summer cruise season from Dover this year, which features nine- and 12-day cruises across the British Isles and Northern Europe, as well as a 11-day solar eclipse cruise to Spain, Portugal, and France. In September, Carnival Legend will reposition to Rome to sail a series of Mediterranean cruises.
In addition to cruises on Carnival Legend, the U.K.'s ETA requirement will impact cruise passengers sailing to and from the country this season with other cruise lines, including Carnival Corporation's Princess Cruises and Holland America Line.
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This story was originally published April 12, 2026 at 7:43 AM.