UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)

Navigating the travel requirements for the UK can be a daunting task, but you’ve come to the right place! We are dedicated to providing you with the latest information about the UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), ensuring you have all the tools you need for a smooth application process.

Whether you’re planning a short visit for tourism, business, or to reunite with loved ones, we are here to assist you at every step. From understanding eligibility and required documents to guiding you through the application process, we strive to streamline your journey to the UK. Our aim is to make sure your travel needs are serviced efficiently and effectively so you can focus on what matters most—enjoying your trip!

Explore our resources and let us help you embark on your adventure to the UK with confidence.

What is a UK ETA?

A UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) is a digital travel permit required by many foreign nationals to visit or transit the United Kingdom without a visa. It's a simple online application that grants pre-approved travel clearance, allowing you to board your flight to the UK. If you're from a country that doesn't need a visa, an ETA is essential for your trip.

Eligible Nationalities for UK ETA

Individuals from the following countries are currently eligible for a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA):

• Bahrain
• Kuwait
• Oman
• Qatar
• Saudi Arabia
• United Arab Emirates

Note: Jordanian nationals are no longer eligible to apply for an ETA. Only individuals from the above countries can apply for an ETA, and they must use their national passports to do so. Other types of passports or travel documents are not accepted for this application.

UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) Scheme 2024

The UK Government is introducing the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme to enhance border security and streamline the travel process. The ETA is a digital authorisation required to enter the UK.

As part of the UK's efforts to modernise its border control, the ETA will improve the travel experience while maintaining the highest security standards. This scheme is primarily for travellers who do not need a visa for short stays or do not have a UK immigration status.

Eligibility

Currently, the scheme is only open to certain nationalities (mentioned above), and others will be able to apply later. An ETA allows multiple visits to the UK and remains valid for 2 years, or until the passport expires, whichever is earlier.

In the future, the ETA will expand to visitors from Europe, Australia, the US, and Canada, as well as other countries that do not require a visa for short-term stays. The UK Government will provide sufficient time for eligible nationalities to prepare for the introduction of ETAs.

Key Dates for Applications

From 27 November 2024:
Citizens from the countries below can apply for an ETA. They can begin travelling with an ETA from 8 January 2025:

Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Australia, The Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Botswana, Brazil, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Grenada, Guatemala, Guyana, Hong Kong SAR (including British nationals overseas), Israel, Japan, Kiribati, Macao SAR, Malaysia, Maldives, Marshall Islands, Mauritius, Mexico, Micronesia, Nauru, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Palau, Panama, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, Peru, Samoa, Seychelles, Singapore, Solomon Islands, South Korea, St Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Taiwan (with a passport that includes a national ID card number), Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Tuvalu, United States, Uruguay.

From 5 March 2025:

Nationals from the following regions can apply for an ETA, with travel permitted from 2 April 2025:

Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Vatican City.

Who is Exempt from UK ETA Requirements

You are not required to obtain a UK ETA if:

• You are from a country not listed as an eligible nationality for ETA.
• You already have one of the following:
  • A valid UK visa
  • Permission to live, work, or study in the UK, including settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme
  • A British or Irish passport
  • A British overseas territories citizen passport

Additionally, if you reside in Ireland and are travelling to the UK from Ireland, Guernsey, Jersey, or the Isle of Man, you do not need an ETA.

Document Requirements for UK ETA Application

Before applying for a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), make sure you have the following documents and information ready:

Essential Documents:

• Valid Passport: At least six months after your intended departure from the UK, your passport should still be valid. Also, ensure this is the passport you will use for travel.
• Passport Photo: You will need to upload or take a digital photograph of the passport.
• Applicant Photo: A clear photo of the person applying is also required.

Financial and Travel Information:

• Payment Method: A valid credit card, debit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay is needed for paying the ETA fee.
• Proof of Funds: You may need to provide proof that you have enough money to support yourself during your stay, such as bank statements or a credit card statement.

What’s Not Required:

• Travel Details: You do not need to provide detailed travel plans or dates at this stage.

By ensuring all these documents are prepared in advance, you’ll be ready to complete your UK ETA application smoothly.

How to Apply for UK ETA: A Step-by-Step Guide

Applying for a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) online is straightforward and takes only a few minutes to complete. Follow the procedures below to apply for your UK ETA:

Step-by-Step Application Process for UK ETA:

Step 1: Begin Online

Visit the UK ETA website to start your application.

Step 2: Access the Application Form

Click on the UK ETA Application Form, which will take you to the online form. Fill in your personal details as required.

Step 3: Prepare Your Documents

Keep a digital copy of your passport, a recent photo, and your travel details ready. Upload these documents to the application form.

Step 4: Select Processing Time

Choose the processing speed that suits you. Note that the processing time may affect the cost and approval duration of your UK ETA.

Step 5: Pay the Application Fee

The ETA application fee can be paid with a credit card, debit card, or any secure payment method.

Step 6: Submit the Application

Once all the information is completed and payment is made, click the submit button to send in your application.

Step 7: Wait for Approval

Be patient as the application is processed. Approval times will vary based on your selected processing speed.

Step 8: Track Your Application

You can see the status of your application using the reference number provided. Enter this number on the UK ETA portal to stay updated.

Step 9: Print Your UK ETA

Once your ETA is approved, you’ll receive an email confirmation. Print a copy of your ETA to present upon arrival in the UK.

Pro Tip: Depending on the purpose of your visit, additional documentation might be required, such as an invitation letter or proof of funds. Make sure to check the specific requirements before applying.

And that’s it! Follow these steps, and you’ll be on your way to the UK with your ETA.

UK ETA: What You Can and Cannot Do

What an ETA Allows:

If you’re eligible for a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), you can use it instead of a visa for:

• Visiting the UK for up to 6 months for tourism, business, short-term studies, or to see family and friends.
• Staying in the UK for up to 3 months under the Creative Worker visa concession.
• Participating in a permitted paid engagement.
• Passing through the UK as a transit passenger, even without clearing UK border control.

Restrictions of an ETA:

With an ETA, you cannot:

• Stay in the UK for more than 6 months.
• Perform paid or unpaid labour for a UK corporation or as a freelancer, except for permitted engagements or under the Creative Worker visa concession.
• Access public funds or benefits.
• Make the UK your place of residence through frequent or successive visits.
• To marry, enter a civil partnership, or give notice for either, you will need a Marriage Visitor visa.

UK ETA Processing Time and Costs

Cost:

The fee for the UK ETA varies based on the applicant's nationality and the chosen processing speed. For detailed fee information, refer to the UK Visa Fee page.

Fee Verification Tool:

You can easily check the applicable fees according to your specific needs using our fee verification tool.

Processing Time:

• Standard Processing: Typically takes X to Y working days at no additional charge.
• Urgent Processing: Accelerated processing within X to Y working days, subject to an additional fee.
• Super Urgent Processing: For emergencies, this option delivers your ETA in X to Y working days, with extra charges applicable.

Additional Fees:

• Service Charges: There may be extra service or processing fees.
• Payment Processing Fees: Be aware that bank or service fees may apply during online transactions.

Important Notes:

• Non-Refundable Fees: Fees are generally non-refundable unless your application is not approved.
• Eligibility and Documentation: Ensure you meet all eligibility criteria and verify your documents carefully to prevent any application rejection.

What Happens After You Apply for a UK ETA

Once your application is processed, you'll receive an email confirming your UK ETA. This is automatically linked to the passport you used during your application.

Your UK ETA is valid for 2 years, allowing you to travel to the UK as often as you like within that period. However, if you renew or get a new passport, you'll need to apply for a new ETA.

Remember, having a UK ETA doesn’t guarantee entry. You'll still need to meet with a Border Force officer upon arrival in the UK for final approval.

Conclusion

Thank you for exploring our thorough reference to the UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). We hope this information has provided clarity and confidence as you prepare for your journey to the UK. Remember, whether you're travelling for leisure, business, or to visit loved ones, our team is here to support you with any requirements you may have. We are committed to making your travel experience as seamless as possible. If you have any issues or need any assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us. Safe travels, and we look forward to helping you make your UK adventure a memorable one!

Frequently asked questions: