A UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a digital travel permission required for eligible travellers visiting the United Kingdom for short stays. It is linked to your passport and must be approved before travel.
The ETA can also be used under the Creative Worker visa concession, allowing certain creative professionals to undertake short-term paid work without obtaining a Creative Worker visa in advance, provided they meet the eligibility requirements.
The approved UK ETA is generally valid for 2 years from the date of approval and can be used for multiple visits. For applicants travelling under the Creative Worker Visa Concession, the maximum stay is 3 months per visit.
Applicants applying for a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) only need a few basic items to complete the application process.
Applicants are advised to check UK ETA requirements before applying.
Important Note: A Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) is not part of the ETA application itself. However, it is required when travelling under the Creative Worker Visa Concession and may be checked upon arrival in the UK by immigration officers.
The Creative Worker Visa Concession enables eligible non-visa national creative professionals, including actors, musicians, artists, dancers, filmmakers, and fashion models, to undertake short-term creative work in the United Kingdom without obtaining a full Creative Worker visa before travel.
Important Note: Travellers should carry their sponsor's contact details and, if required, proof of vaccination from a recognised doctor.
Applicants entering the UK under the Creative Worker Visa Concession can take part in a range of approved short-term creative activities, as long as they are sponsored by a licensed UK organisation.
The UK ETA and the Creative Worker Visa Concession are both required for eligible applicants.
A UK ETA is required before travelling, and airlines will check that you have a valid ETA before allowing the traveller to board their flight. An ETA does not give you the right to work in the UK.
When the applicant arrives in the UK, an immigration officer will review the applicant's ETA, Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), and the details of the intended work. If the applicant meets the requirements, entry will be granted under the Creative Worker visa concession, allowing the applicant to undertake eligible work for up to 3 months.
The UK ETA is available only to selected nationalities. Check the eligible countries for UK eTA to confirm your eligibility before applying.
Fill out the UK ETA application form with your passport and travel details.
Upload the required documents, pay the UK ETA fee, and submit the application.
Once approved, your UK ETA will be sent by email and linked to your passport.
The UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is processed quickly, with different service options available depending on how fast you need approval.
The total cost depends on the processing option selected and will be shown before payment. Payment is made online by debit or credit card during the application process. Check the UK ETA fee details before applying to confirm the exact cost.
Disclaimer: Although this information was last updated in June 2026, we recommend verifying with the appropriate agencies, embassies, and airlines to ensure complete accuracy regarding your travel plans.