UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for Short-Term Visits

The UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a multiple-entry digital travel permit for eligible travellers visiting the United Kingdom for short-term visits of up to 6 months per visit.

This guide covers eligibility, validity, permitted stay duration, application process, and tracking.

Apply for a UK ETA for Short-Term Visit

Application Requirements UK ETA for Short-Term Visits 

Applicants are required to submit the following documents for the UK ETA application: 

• Passport Bio Page: The passport must be valid for the entire duration of stay in the UK. 

• Passport-Size Photo: The photograph must be recently taken. 

Applicants are advised to check the detailed information on UK eTA Requirements before beginning the application process. 

Validity and Stay Duration for UK ETA for Short-Term Visits 

Validity: Up to 2 years, or until the passport expires, whichever occurs first

Maximum Stay: Up to 6 months per visit

Entry Type: Multiple entries 

Allowed Travel Purposes Under UK eTA for Short-Term Visits

• Tourism: Holidays, sightseeing, and cultural visits.
• Business Trip: Meetings, training, and business events.
• Short-Term Study: Short courses, research, exams, or training.
• Creative Work: Approved creative work for up to 3 months.
• Permitted Paid Engagement: Short-term paid professional activities.
• Visiting Family and Friends: Visiting relatives or friends in the UK.
• Transit: Passing through the UK to another destination.

Application Process of UK ETA for Short-Term Visits 

Applying for the UK ETA is simple and fully online. Just follow these easy steps:

Step 1: Complete the Online Application

Provide passport, travel and general details in the application form. 

Step 2: Upload all the Required Documents

Submit a scanned copy of the required documents. 

Step 3: Pay the eTA Fee 

Pay the eTA fee using a credit or debit card or through another accepted payment method. 

Step 4: Receive the Approved eTA 

The approved UK eTA is delivered to the applicant's registered email ID. 

Available Processing Time and Fee for UK ETA for Short-Term Visits 

Applicants may choose from different processing options depending on how quickly they need their ETA. 

• Normal Processing: 1 - 2 Days, standard option for most travellers applying in advance.
• Rush Processing: 6 - 12 Hours, faster review for quicker approval.
• Super Rush Processing: 1 Hour, the fastest option for urgent travel needs.

Fee for UK ETA for Short-Term Visits 

The total amount may vary depending on the processing speed selected by the applicant. Check the UK ETA Fee for detailed information on how much you are required to pay. 

UK ETA for Short-Term Visit Application Status Tracking

• Check your application status using the online status tracker.
• Monitor your registered email address for application updates and notifications.
• Contact UK ETA support for status update information.

Disclaimer: Although this information was last updated in July 2026, we recommend verifying with the appropriate agencies, embassies, and airlines to ensure complete accuracy regarding your travel plans.