The United Kingdom Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for short-term visits is a multi-entry digital authorisation that permits eligible visitors to enter the United Kingdom for brief stays of no more than 6 months on each entry.
Apply for a UK ETA for Short-Term
Visit
Who Can Apply for United Kingdom ETA for Short-Term Visit?
Travellers from countries eligible for UK ETA can apply for this electronic travel authorisation.
Documents Needed for UK ETA Short-Stay Applications
- Passport Biographical Data Page: The passport must remain valid for the entire duration of the United Kingdom visit. Submit a full-colour, clear, and complete scan of the passport biographical data page.
- Recent Photograph: Provide a clear, front-facing digital image. Screenshots and non-religious head coverings are not accepted.
Applicants with any queries regarding UK eTA
Requirements may contact visa support for assistance.
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.
UK ETA for Short-Term Visit Application Steps
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Step 1: Fill the Online Visa Application Form
Enter passport, travel and basic personal information.
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Step 2: Upload the Required Documents
Submit scans copy of all the required documents.
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Step 3: Pay the Visa Fees
Use a credit card, debit card or any other accepted payment method.
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Step 4: Receive the approved ETA
The approved UK ETA is sent to the email address provided.
Available Processing Time and Fee for UK ETA for Short-Term Visits
- Normal Processing: 1 - 2 Days, standard option for most travellers applying in advance.
- Rush Processing: 6 - 12 Hours, faster review for urgent approval.
- Super Rush Processing: 1 Hour, the fastest option for immediate travel needs
.
UK ETA for Short-Term Visits Extension
UK ETA cannot be extended, renewed or modified once it has been issued. Apply for a new ETA if the existing ETA has expired or they have been issued a new passport.
Disclaimer: Although this information was last updated in October 2026, we recommend verifying with the appropriate agencies, embassies, and airlines to ensure complete accuracy regarding your travel plans.