UK ETA Application - Electronic Travel Authorization

No, a printed copy is not required, as your ETA is electronically linked to your passport. However, it is strongly advised to keep a digital or printed confirmation of your ETA approval in case an airline representative or immigration officer requests proof during check-in or arrival. Your ETA status will be automatically verified by UK border systems when you arrive. Make sure to travel with the same passport you used during your ETA application.

‍

If your application is refused, you will not be allowed to travel to the UK under the ETA scheme. The refusal notice may include a general reason, but not always in detail. If you believe the decision was incorrect or if you need to travel to the UK for an essential reason, you can apply for a standard UK visa through your nearest visa application center.

There is currently no formal appeal process for ETA denials, but you can reapply if your circumstances change or if you believe a mistake was made in your original application.

‍

No. An ETA is designed solely for short-term visits and transit purposes. It does not grant the right to work, live, study long-term, or access public funds in the UK. If you plan to:

• Take up employment,
• Enroll in a long-term course,
• Join family for residence,
• Or stay beyond the permitted duration,
  

You must apply for an appropriate UK visa based on your reason for travel.

‍

Yes. Every individual, including children and infants, must apply for and receive their own ETA before traveling to the UK. Parents or guardians can complete the application on behalf of their children, but each child will still require a separate application and payment.

A UK ETA is valid for 2 years from the date of issue, or until your passport expires — whichever comes first. It is a multiple-entry authorization, meaning you can enter and leave the UK as many times as you like during the validity period, provided each stay complies with the ETA conditions (generally, up to 6 months per visit).

If your passport expires during this period, you will need to apply for a new ETA using your new passport.

‍

Most ETA applications are processed within 72 hours (3 days), although many are approved sooner. In rare cases, processing may take longer if additional checks are required. It is strongly recommended that you apply at least one week in advance of your intended travel date to avoid any disruptions or delays to your trip.

You cannot board a flight, ferry, or train to the UK without an approved ETA if you are from a country where it is required.

‍

You can apply online here. The application process is fully digital and usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes.

You will need to provide:

• A valid biometric passport from an eligible country.
• Personal information such as your full name, date of birth, and contact details.
• Travel details, including your planned date of arrival and departure.
• Answer several security and criminal background questions.

You must also pay the application fee with a debit or credit card. After submission, you’ll receive updates via email.

‍

As of 2025, the ETA requirement is being gradually rolled out and currently applies to citizens of Qatar, Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and United Arab Emirates. It will expand to include more visa-exempt nationalities, including citizens of countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and South Korea later in the year. Travelers who already hold a UK visa, are residents of the UK, or hold British or Irish citizenship do not need to apply for an ETA. Irish citizens can continue to travel freely under the Common Travel Area agreement.

‍

The UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a new entry requirement introduced by the UK government for nationals of certain countries who do not normally need a visa to enter the United Kingdom. It is a digital permission to travel, similar to systems like the U.S. ESTA or Canada’s eTA. The ETA must be obtained before boarding a flight, train, or ferry to the UK. It applies to individuals visiting for short stays, typically up to six months, for purposes such as tourism, visiting family and friends, attending business meetings, or transiting through the UK. It is part of the UK’s broader strategy to strengthen border security while simplifying entry for eligible travelers.

‍

The application fee for a UK ETA is  approximately $22 USD.