What Is the UK ETA?
The UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a digital pre-travel permission that visa-exempt foreign nationals need before travelling to the United Kingdom. Introduced under the Nationality and Borders Act 2022, the ETA replaced the earlier Electronic Visa Waiver scheme and forms part of the UK’s wider programme to digitise border control.
An ETA is not a visa and it is not a tax. It is a digital security check that links electronically to your passport and is verified by airlines, ferry companies, and rail operators before you board. Once approved, the ETA sits as an electronic record against your passport details, so you do not need to carry any physical document.
The ETA permits travel to the UK, Jersey, Guernsey, and the Isle of Man for short stays. It does not cover visits to British Overseas Territories. Having an ETA does not guarantee entry to the UK – Border Force officers still assess whether you meet the visitor rules when you arrive.
Since the scheme launched in October 2023, 24.8 million ETAs have been issued up to the end of 2025 (Source: Home Office factsheet, April 2026). The system is now fully operational, with all eligible nationalities required to hold an ETA or another form of UK digital permission before travel.
Who Needs a UK ETA?
If you are a national of a visa-exempt country and you do not already hold a UK visa, residence permit, or other immigration permission, you need a UK ETA to travel to the UK.
The requirement applies to nationals of over 80 countries, including:
Europe: All EU member states (except Ireland), plus Norway, Iceland, Switzerland, Liechtenstein (EFTA), Andorra, Monaco, San Marino, Vatican City
Americas: United States, Canada, Brazil, Argentina, Mexico, Chile, Costa Rica, Panama, Peru, Uruguay, Paraguay, Guatemala, Belize, Guyana, and several Caribbean nations (Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Grenada, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines)
Asia-Pacific: Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Macau, Brunei, Maldives, Australia, New Zealand, and Pacific Island nations (Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu)
Middle East: UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, Israel
Each person travelling needs their own UK ETA, including babies and children. You can apply on behalf of other people, but each application is processed individually.
If you are unsure whether you need an ETA or a visa, check the official tool at GOV.UK/check-uk-visa.
Who Is Exempt from the UK ETA?
Several categories of travellers do not need a UK ETA:
British and Irish citizens: If you hold a British or Irish passport, you do not need an ETA. This includes British dual nationals – you should travel on your British passport to avoid complications.
Existing UK immigration permission holders: If you already have a UK visa, residence permit, pre-settled or settled status, or any other form of UK immigration permission (held as an eVisa), you rely on that status instead of an ETA.
Irish residents travelling within the Common Travel Area: Legal residents of Ireland who are nationals of visa-exempt countries (such as EU or US nationals) do not need an ETA when travelling to the UK from Ireland, Guernsey, Jersey, or the Isle of Man, provided they can show proof of legal residency.
People exempt from immigration control: This includes diplomats, military personnel, airline and ship crew members, and others with official exemptions.
Airside transit passengers: If you are connecting through a UK airport and staying in the international part of the airport (not passing through UK border control), you are temporarily exempt from the ETA requirement. This exemption is under review and may change in the future.
Children on France-UK school trips: A special form is available for children travelling on organised school trips between France and the UK.
UK ETA Cost and Fees
The UK ETA currently costs £20 per applicant (as of 8 April 2026). This fee applies to every person travelling, regardless of age.
The fee has changed since the scheme was introduced:
| Period | Fee |
|---|---|
| June 2023 – April 2025 | £10 |
| April 2025 – April 2026 | £16 |
| April 2026 onwards | £20 |
You can pay the ETA fee using a credit card, debit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay. The payment is made during the online application process.
Important warning: The UK government advises applicants to use only the official UK ETA app or the GOV.UK website. Other websites may charge higher fees to submit applications on your behalf. Always apply directly through official channels to avoid overpaying.
The fee is non-refundable, even if your application is refused. As with all UK government fees, the cost of an ETA is kept under review and may change in the future.
UK ETA Validity and Duration
Once approved, your UK ETA is valid for 2 years from the date of issue, or until your passport expires – whichever comes first.
Key points about ETA validity:
- Multiple entries: You can use the same ETA for repeated trips to the UK during the validity period, as long as you continue to meet the visitor rules.
- Maximum stay: Each visit under an ETA allows stays of up to 6 months at a time.
- Passport linkage: The ETA is digitally linked to the specific passport you used in your application. If you renew or replace your passport, your ETA becomes invalid and you must apply again.
- No extension: You cannot extend an ETA from within the UK. When it expires, you need to apply for a new one.
- No switching: It is not possible to switch from an ETA-backed visit into another immigration route (such as a work visa) while you are in the UK.
If your passport is close to its expiry date, consider renewing it before applying for an ETA. Arriving with a passport that has limited validity can raise questions at the border, even if your ETA has not yet expired.
How to Apply for a UK ETA
The easiest way to apply for a UK ETA is through the UK ETA app, available on Google Play and the Apple App Store. You can also apply online at GOV.UK/eta/apply.
Application Steps
- Download the UK ETA app or visit the GOV.UK application page
- Pay the fee (£20) using credit card, debit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay
- Provide your details:
- Contact information (email address required)
- Passport details
- Upload a photo: Take or upload a digital photo that meets the GOV.UK photo requirements
- Scan your passport: If your passport contains an electronic chip and your device can read it, scan it through the app. Otherwise, upload or take a photo of your passport
- Scan your face: Required for applicants aged 10 and above (children aged 9 and younger are exempt from the face scan)
- Answer suitability questions: These cover your address, employment, criminal history, other nationalities, and involvement in war crimes, terrorism, or extremism
- Submit your application
If you are applying on behalf of someone else (including children), you can submit their application through your account, but you will need all of their personal details and documents.
Tips for a Smooth Application
- Apply at least 3 working days before your planned travel date
- Use the same passport for your application that you will use to travel
- Ensure your photo meets the official requirements (no glasses, plain background, neutral expression)
- Have a valid email address ready – your decision will be sent by email
- For children under 18, have contact information for someone with parental responsibility
UK ETA Processing Time
Most UK ETA applications receive an automatic decision within minutes when submitted through the UK ETA app. The system checks your information against security databases, and if no adverse information is found, approval is granted immediately.
However, a small number of applications may require further review by an officer. In these cases, the decision can take up to 3 working days. This is why the government recommends applying at least 3 working days before your travel date.
Your decision is sent to you by email. Once approved, the ETA is automatically and digitally linked to your passport – you do not need to print anything or show any document at the airport. Airlines and other carriers will verify your ETA status through automated digital checks with the Home Office.
If you have not received a decision after 3 working days, you can use the UKVI webchat to check on your application. Note that UKVI cannot help with ETA enquiries over the phone.
What Can You Do with a UK ETA?
A UK ETA allows you to travel to the UK as a visitor or as a landside transit passenger. The activities you can undertake are governed by the standard UK visitor rules:
Allowed with a UK ETA:
– Tourism and leisure activities
– Visiting friends and family
– Attending business meetings and conferences
– Car out limited and specific business activities
– Receiving private medical treatment
– Short-term study within visitor provisions
– Transit through the UK (landside)
– Creative Worker concession (up to 3 months for approved sponsors)
Not allowed with a UK ETA:
– Taking up employment or work that requires sponsorship
– Long-term or full-time study
– Living in the UK through frequent or back-to-back visits
– Accessing public funds
– Getting married or entering a civil partnership (requires a separate visa)
If you need to work, study for extended periods, join family long-term, or stay beyond the visitor limits, you will need to apply for the appropriate visa instead of an ETA.
UK ETA vs UK Visa
Understanding when you need an ETA versus a full UK visa is essential for planning your trip.
When to get an ETA: You are from a visa-exempt country, visiting for tourism, business meetings, family visits, short study, or transit, and staying less than 6 months.
When to get a visa: You want to work, study long-term, settle in the UK, stay longer than 6 months, or you are from a country that requires a visa for all UK visits.
An ETA does not change who needs a visa. If your nationality requires a visa for the UK, the ETA does not apply to you – you still need to go through the full visa application process.
UK ETA Rejection and Refusal
If your UK ETA application is refused, there is no right of appeal. However, you have two options:
- Reapply for an ETA: If the refusal was due to an obvious error (such as incorrect passport details or a poor-quality photo), you can submit a new application with the corrected information.
- Apply for a UK visa: If the refusal was due to a more serious issue (such as a criminal record or previous immigration violations), you may need to apply for a full UK visa, which involves a more thorough assessment.
Common reasons for ETA refusal include:
– Criminal history that raises security concerns
– Previous immigration violations in the UK or other countries
– Involvement in war crimes, terrorism, or extremism
– Providing false or misleading information in the application
– Using a passport that is reported lost or stolen
Important: It is a criminal offence to obtain a UK ETA by deception. Always provide truthful and accurate information in your application.
If you believe you have been a victim of an immigration internet scam (such as a fraudulent website posing as the official ETA application portal), report it on GOV.UK.
UK ETA for Transit Passengers
Transit through the UK is treated differently depending on whether you pass through UK border control:
Airside transit (no border control): If you are connecting through a UK airport and staying in the international part of the airport, you are temporarily exempt from the ETA requirement. This applies to airports like Heathrow and Manchester where you can transit without passing through passport control. However, this exemption is under review and may be removed in the future.
Landside transit (through border control): If you need to pass through UK border control during your connection – for example, to change airports, collect and re-check baggage, or stay overnight before an onward flight – you need an ETA (unless you hold another form of UK permission).
If you are unsure whether your transit route requires passing through border control, check with your airline before travelling.
UK ETA for Dual Citizens
If you hold British or Irish citizenship in addition to another nationality, special rules apply:
British dual citizens: You should travel to the UK on your British passport. British citizens do not need an ETA, and using your British passport avoids complications with carrier checks. If you do not have a valid British passport, you may be able to use an expired British passport issued in 1989 or later, provided your personal details match your other passport.
Irish dual citizens: Travel on your Irish passport. Irish citizens are exempt from the ETA requirement.
Other dual nationals: If you hold dual nationality but neither citizenship is British or Irish, you need an ETA if either of your nationalities requires one. Apply using the passport you intend to travel on.
Emergency situations: If you have previously held a British passport and need to travel to the UK urgently, you may be eligible for an emergency travel document. Contact your nearest British embassy or consulate.
UK ETA vs Other Countries’ Electronic Travel Authorisations
The UK ETA is part of a global trend towards digital pre-travel authorisation. Here is how it compares to similar systems:
The UK ETA stands out for its relatively higher fee (£20 compared to most competitors) and its generous 6-month maximum stay per visit. The 2-year validity is comparable to the US ESTA and New Zealand NZeTA.
The EU’s ETIAS system is expected to launch in 2026 and will require similar pre-travel authorisation for visa-exempt travellers visiting Schengen Area countries.
UK ETA History and Timeline
The UK ETA scheme has been introduced in stages since 2023:
The scheme is part of the UK’s broader digital border strategy, which aims to provide a more streamlined, secure immigration system for the millions of people who pass through the UK border each year.
UK ETA Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is the UK ETA?
The UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a digital permission to travel to the United Kingdom. It is required for visa-exempt foreign nationals visiting the UK for short stays. The ETA is not a visa – it is a pre-travel security check that links to your passport electronically. It was introduced under the Nationality and Borders Act 2022 and is now fully operational for all eligible nationalities.
How much does the UK ETA cost?
The UK ETA costs £20 per applicant as of April 2026. This fee applies to every traveller, including children and babies. You can pay by credit card, debit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay during the application process. The fee is non-refundable. Be cautious of unofficial websites that charge higher fees – always apply through the official UK ETA app or GOV.UK.
How long is the UK ETA valid for?
A UK ETA is valid for 2 years from the date of issue, or until your passport expires – whichever comes first. During this period, you can make multiple trips to the UK. Each visit allows stays of up to 6 months. If you renew your passport, you must apply for a new ETA.
Who needs a UK ETA?
Nationals of over 80 visa-exempt countries need a UK ETA to visit the United Kingdom. This includes citizens of the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Brazil, and all EU member states (except Ireland). Each person travelling needs their own ETA, including babies and children.
How do I apply for a UK ETA?
Apply through the UK ETA app (available on Google Play and Apple App Store) or online at GOV.UK/eta/apply. You will need your passport, a digital photo, and answers to suitability questions about your background. Most applications are approved within minutes. The UK ETA app is the recommended method as it provides the fastest processing.
How long does UK ETA processing take?
Most UK ETA applications receive an automatic decision within minutes through the UK ETA app. A small number of cases may require further review, taking up to 3 working days. The government recommends applying at least 3 working days before your travel date to account for any delays.
Can I work in the UK with an ETA?
Generally, no. A UK ETA does not give you permission to work in the UK. The one exception is the Creative Worker concession, which allows non-visa nationals to enter with an ETA for up to 3 months of eligible creative work for an approved sponsor. For any other type of employment, you need the appropriate work visa.
What happens if my UK ETA is refused?
If your ETA is refused, there is no right of appeal. You can either reapply for an ETA (if the refusal was due to an error you can correct) or apply for a full UK visa instead. Common reasons for refusal include criminal history, previous immigration violations, or providing false information. A visa application takes longer than an ETA, so plan accordingly.
Do children need their own UK ETA?
Yes, every person travelling to the UK needs their own ETA, regardless of age. This includes babies and children. You can apply on behalf of your children through your own account, but each child needs a separate application with their own passport details and photo. For children under 18, you will need to provide contact information for someone with parental responsibility.
Do I need a UK ETA if I already have a UK visa?
No. If you already hold a valid UK visa, residence permit, pre-settled or settled status, or any other form of UK immigration permission, you do not need an ETA. You rely on your existing permission to travel. The ETA is only required for visa-exempt nationals who do not already have UK immigration status.
Do I need a UK ETA for transit through the UK?
It depends on whether you pass through UK border control. If you transit airside (staying in the international part of the airport), you are temporarily exempt from the ETA requirement. If you transit landside (passing through border control, for example to change airports or collect baggage), you need an ETA. Check with your airline if you are unsure.
How does the UK ETA work for dual British citizens?
British dual citizens should travel to the UK on their British passport and do not need an ETA. If you do not have a valid British passport, you may be able to use an expired British passport issued in 1989 or later, provided your personal details match. The UK government has been advising dual citizens since October 2024 to ensure they have a valid British passport for travel.
Can I use my UK ETA for multiple trips?
Yes, a UK ETA permits multiple entries to the UK during its validity period (up to 2 years). You can make as many trips as you need, as long as each stay does not exceed 6 months and you continue to meet the visitor rules. However, using an ETA for frequent or back-to-back visits to effectively live in the UK is not permitted.
What is the difference between a UK ETA and an eVisa?
A UK ETA is a pre-travel authorisation for short-term visitors and transit passengers. An eVisa is a digital record of immigration permission to live, work, or study in the UK. They serve different purposes: the ETA is for temporary visits (up to 6 months), while an eVisa is for longer-term immigration status such as work visas, student visas, or settled status.
Where can I check the status of my UK ETA?
You can check your ETA status online at [GOV.UK/check-eta](https://www.gov.uk/check-eta). You will need the passport details you used in your application. Your ETA decision is also sent to you by email. If you have questions about your application, you can use the UKVI webchat service at ukvi-eta-support-webchat.homeoffice.gov.uk.
Last updated: July 2026. Information based on official UK government sources including GOV.UK and the Home Office factsheet (April 2026). Always check GOV.UK/eta for the most current requirements.
