What is ETA?
The United Kingdom Electronic Travel Authorisation (UK ETA) is a digital travel authorization issued by the British government to nationals of visa-exempt countries. This mandatory authorization must be obtained before traveling to the UK.
This streamlined electronic system is part of the government's digital border control initiative by 2025. The UK ETA supports various travel purposes including tourism, family visits, business activities, and short-term study programs.
Valid for two years with multiple entries, the ETA cannot be used for:
Each traveler, including children, requires a separate ETA application, the ETA application fee is £65
(this fee includes £16 government fee and £49 our service fee).
UK visa vs. ETA
The UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is not a visa, but a simplified entry authorization for travelers from visa-exempt countries. Here’s how it compares with the standard visitor visa.
UK ETA
The ETA offers an efficient, entirely online application process with simple requirements. Valid for up to two years or until passport expiry, it allows multiple stays of up to six months each.
- Entirely online application method.
- Simple and streamlined application process.
- Valid for up to two years.
- More cost-effective than traditional visas.
UK visa
The standard UK visitor visa requires more detailed applications, including offline steps. Duration and costs vary based on the type of visa, often involving additional fees.
- Includes offline steps.
- Involves a detailed application process.
- Duration varies based on the visa type.
- May include additional visa fees.
How to get an ETA?
The ETA application process is entirely online with no visa center visits required. The non-refundable fee is £65, payable by debit or credit card.
Before you start, ensure you have:
Complete application
Fill in personal details, upload passport bio page and photo. All information must match your passport exactly.
Receive decision
Within three working days, you'll receive an email with your ETA approval reference number or rejection notice.
Travel preparation
Keep your ETA approval reference number accessible during your travel to the UK.
What can I do
with the UK ETA?
The UK ETA is designed to allow eligible travelers a convenient way to experience all the UK has to offer. However, there are some guidelines for what ETA holder can do.
Short-term business activities
Conduct meetings, conferences, and other professional activities during your short stay.
Tourism or visiting family and friends
Explore the UK's rich heritage, attractions, and spend quality time with loved ones.
Academic purposes
Attend conferences, workshops, or short-term academic activities and research.
Creative workers
Engage in creative projects, performances, and artistic collaborations.
Transit through the UK
Pass through the UK on your way to another destination with ease and convenience.
Who doesn't need the UK ETA?
Not every traveler requires the UK ETA. Some may need a visa instead, or might be completely exempt from both requirements.
Other nationalities
Nationals from countries that are visa-exempt, other than those eligible for the ETA, do not require this authorization.
Visa holders and UK residents
Those who possess a valid visa or have permission to live, work, or study in the UK do not need the ETA.
British or Irish passport holders
Individuals holding a British or Irish passport are not required to obtain the ETA.
Common travel area residents
Travelers from Ireland, Guernsey, Jersey, or the Isle of Man are also exempt from the ETA.
UK ETA requirements
To apply for a UK ETA, all eligible travelers must provide some basic requirements. The following are mandatory requirements for all applicants:
Passport
Passports must be valid and from an eligible country. It's recommended to have at least two years of validity to benefit from the full validity period of the ETA.
Personal photo
Applicants must submit a recent portrait-style photograph capturing the upper body, which complies with standard specifications.
Payment method
Applicants must possess a valid credit/debit card or have access to Apple Pay or Google Pay to pay the ETA UK fee.
Email address
A valid email address is required to receive the UK ETA after approval.
How to apply for the UK ETA?
The United Kingdom ETA application process is very straightforward and can be completed online. Eligible nationals can swiftly finalize their application within moments.
Applicants can take the following basic steps to complete their ETA application:
Fill out the application form
Complete the online application by entering your personal information and attaching necessary documents.
Pay the required fees
Proceed with the payment to finalize your application submission.
Receive your ETA
Once approved, your ETA decision will be emailed directly to you. It will be digitally linked to your current passport, allowing entry into the UK with this passport.
UK ETA
processing time
The processing time for your ETA application may vary depending on individual circumstances.
Normal
Applicants usually receive their ETA decision within 3 working days. Sometimes it may be quicker, but certain cases can take longer depending on individual circumstances.
Delay
-
Security checks requiring further verification.
-
High application volume during peak seasons.
-
Errors in application such as missing or incorrect details.
UK ETA decision
After the application is processed, the applicant will receive a decision on their ETA application by email.
Approval
If approved, the ETA confirmation is sent by email and digitally linked to the applicant's passport, meaning travelers do not need to show proof of ETA when entering the UK. The ETA remains valid for up to two years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first, allowing multiple entries of up to six months each.
Rejection
If an ETA application is refused, the applicant is informed by email. Reasons may include incorrect information, not meeting eligibility criteria, or security concerns. In such cases, the applicant may need to apply for a standard UK visa depending on their travel purpose and duration of stay.
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