UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) – Who Needs It and How to Apply
Simplified UK Entry with the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)
What is a UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)?
The UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a new digital entry permit required for many international visitors travelling to the UK. From 2024 onwards, most travellers from Europe, the USA, Canada, Australia, and the Middle East will need an ETA to enter the UK instead of a visa. This simple online authorisation allows you to visit the UK for tourism, business, family visits, study, or short-term stays.
Applying is quick and affordable – the ETA costs just £16 and is valid for 2 years or until your passport expires, allowing multiple trips to the UK during this time.
Who Needs a UK ETA?
You usually need an ETA if you are travelling to the UK from:
Europe
United States, Canada, or Australia
Gulf and Middle Eastern countries (Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, United Arab Emirates)
Other eligible nations (check official list)
Each traveller, including children and infants, must have their own ETA.
Who Does NOT Need a UK ETA?
You do not need an ETA if you:
Hold a British or Irish passport
Already have a valid UK visa
Have settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme
Have permission to live, work, or study in the UK
Are transiting through a UK airport without passing border control
Are travelling with a British Overseas Territories or British National (Overseas) passport
Live in Ireland and are entering from Ireland, Guernsey, Jersey, or the Isle of Man
What Can You Do with a UK ETA?
With an ETA, you can:
Visit the UK for tourism or to see family and friends (up to 6 months)
Undertake short-term study courses
Attend business meetings or events
Stay up to 3 months under the Creative Worker visa concession
Carry out a permitted paid engagement
Transit through the UK
What You Cannot Do with a UK ETA
An ETA does not allow you to:
Stay longer than 6 months
Work in the UK (paid or unpaid, unless under specific concessions)
Claim UK public funds
Marry or register a civil partnership (you’ll need a Marriage Visitor visa)
Use frequent successive visits to live in the UK
How Much Does the ETA Cost?
The ETA fee is £16 per applicant. Be cautious of third-party websites charging higher fees.
How Long Does a UK ETA Last?
A UK ETA is valid for 2 years or until your passport expires, whichever is sooner. You can make multiple trips during this period.
What Do You Need to Apply for an ETA?
To apply online or via the official UK ETA app, you’ll need:
A valid passport
A recent digital photo
An email address
A debit/credit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay
Applications are usually decided within 3 working days, often sooner.
FAQs
The ETA comes with a fee of £16.
2 years or until passport expiry, multiple trips allowed
Anytime before your travel. The Home Office indicate it usually takes 3 working days to get a decision, but may take longer. You must apply for the ETA before your travel to the UK but can travel whilst still awaiting a decision.
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