UK ETA Status Check

Verifying the status of your application is a straightforward yet crucial step if you have applied for a UK electronic travel authorisation (ETA) and are awaiting approval. Verifying your status guarantees a seamless travel experience. The UK ETA is a digital permission needed for short-term, visa-exempt visitors to the UK. 

Understanding how to monitor your ETA status can help you prevent last-minute issues while you are planning a vacation, business trip, or transit through the UK. The following will show you how to check your UK ETA status and what to do if your application is delayed or has issues.

Why Checking Your UK ETA Status is Important? 

Checking the UK ETA status is important for the following reasons: 

• Prevent Travel Disruptions: You risk being refused boarding or entry if your UK ETA is postponed or rejected. By checking your status beforehand, you can be sure that any problems will be resolved before your journey.

• Prior to booking hotels and flights, confirm approval: Before you can board, many airlines require a valid ETA. By checking your status, you can prevent last-minute cancellations or additional fees.

• Early Error or Missing Information Identification: Errors in your application, such as incorrect passport information, may result in its denial. You can make corrections or submit more documents if necessary by checking your status.

• Be Ready for Potential Rejections or Delays: Security checks or excessive demand may cause some applications to take longer to process. You might have to change your travel schedule or apply for a visa if your ETA is still pending.

• Ensure Smooth Entry at the UK Border: Even with an approved ETA, border officers may verify your status. Keeping a copy of your approval confirmation helps prevent entry issues.

By monitoring your UK ETA status, you can travel with confidence and avoid unexpected problems.

How to Check Your UK ETA Status? 

You can easily track your UK electronic travel authorisation (ETA) application using the UK ETA Status Tracker tool available on the ETA website. Steps to check the status are discussed below: 

Step 1: Visit the UK ETA website.

Step 2: Locate the UK ETA Status Check tool. 

Step 3: Provide order ID and passport number (used while filling the UK ETA Application form)

Step 4: Click on status check. 

Where to Find Your UK ETA Order ID?

Your UK ETA Order ID (also called an Application Reference Number) is a crucial tracking code required to check your application status. This unique identifier follows a specific format:

Format: Country Code + Unique ID + Verification Code

Example: UK2343255LGK

Here is where and how to locate it:

OPTION 1: CONFIRMATION EMAIL AFTER SUBMISSION 

• After you apply, the UK ETA system will send an automated confirmation email to the address you provided.

• Subject Line: Typically includes phrases like ‘UK ETA Application Received’ or ‘ETA Submission Confirmation’.

• Where to Look:

• Check your inbox (and spam/junk folder if missing).
• The email contains your unique order ID/reference number, often in bold or a highlighted format.

OPTION 2: PAYMENT RECEIPT OR BANK STATEMENT

• If you paid the ETA fee via credit/debit card:

• The transaction receipt (sent via email or available in your bank’s app) may reference the ETA Order ID.

• Look for descriptors like ‘UK ETA Fee’. 

OPTION 3: PDF ATTACHED (IF APPLICABLE)

• Some applicants receive a PDF summary of their application via email.

• Open the attachment—your order ID is usually displayed at the top or bottom.

What If You Still Can’t Find It?

Contact the UK ETA Support Team and provide them with your applicant’s full name, passport number, and travel dates for verification.

• Point to Remember: Save your order ID immediately after applying—store it in your phone notes or travel documents for quick access.

By following these steps, you’ll quickly locate your UK ETA Order ID and track your application seamlessly.

UK ETA Status Explained

After applying for your UK ETA, you'll get one of four statuses. Here's what each status means and the actions you should take:

✅ Approved

Your UK ETA is approved and is now valid for two years.

Do: Save the approval email/PDF (airlines may check).

⏳ Pending

The application is still in the processing phase (usually takes 1-6 Working Days under standard processing). 

Do: Wait 2 days before checking again.

❌Rejected 

Common reasons: Errors, past visa issues, or security concerns, etc.

Do: Fix mistakes and reapply, or get a visa if needed.

ℹ️ More Info Needed

More information is needed or extra documents are required. 

Do: Respond quickly to avoid delays.

Pro Tips

✔ Apply 1-2 weeks before travel.

✔ Double-check passport details.

✔ Keep approval proof handy.

How Long Does It Take to Get a UK ETA Approval?

Although processing times vary depending on which option you choose, getting your UK ETA authorised is easy.

For travellers who require flexibility, we offer three processing options:

• Standard Processing (1-6 Working Days) - No Extra Fee

The standard option takes up to 1-6 Working Days for approval at no additional cost.

• Rush Processing (1- 3 Working Days ) -Additional fee charged

For faster approval, choose rush processing, which takes 1- 3 Working Days to process the ETA application for an extra charge. 

• Super Rush (24 Hours)- Costliest Option 

Do you need your ETA immediately? For the highest fee, Super Rush provides approval in less than a day.

UK ETA Delayed? What to do ?

In the event that your UK ETA is delayed, take these actions:

• Examine the Processing Time:Verify the processing time, which is usually a few hours to several days. There may be delays during busy periods.

• Speak with the UK Customer Service Team: Contact the UK Customer Support Team with your application information to find out why there has been a delay.

• Verify the Accuracy of the Information: Verify again that your information is correct and comprehensive, as mistakes or omissions may result in delays.

• Verify the Status of Payment: Verify that the money you made for the ETA application was accepted.

• Have Patience: If required, modify your trip schedule and allow additional time for processing.

Common Reasons for UK ETA Rejection

Some common reasons for UK ETA rejection are as follows: 

Legal Exclusion or Deportation Orders

• Active exclusion/deportation orders from the UK.
• Pending deportation decisions.
• Secretary of State-directed exclusions.

Criminal Convictions

• Prison sentences of 12+ months (any time).
• Recent convictions (within last 12 months).
• Serious offences (even with shorter sentences).

Public Safety Concerns

• Suspected extremist/terrorist ties.
• War crime allegations.
• Risk to national security.

UK Immigration Violations

• Previous visa overstays.
• Illegal entry attempts.
• Breach of visa conditions.

Fraudulent Applications

• False documents or information.
• Deliberate omissions.
• Prior instances of misrepresentation.

Unpaid Home Office Debts

• Outstanding litigation costs.
• Unsettled legal fees from appeals.

Previously Cancelled ETAs

• Past ETA revocations (misuse/ineligibility).
• Exceptions if later granted entry clearance.

Prior Visitor Visa Refusals

• Previous UK visa rejections.
• Doesn’t apply if later granted valid entry.

Key Note:

Each case is assessed individually. Some refusals may be overcome by reapplying with corrected documentation or after resolving outstanding issues. Always review refusal notices carefully.

Submitting a New UK ETA Application After Rejection

If your UK electronic travel authorisation (ETA) is denied, follow this structured process to reapply correctly:

First Step: Apply

First, fill out the application and fix any errors that caused it to be denied. Upload the required documents (make sure the documents are as per the UK ETA guidelines) 

Second Step: Fee Payment

Submit the ETA form and make the ETA fee payment. 

Third Step: UK ETA Approval 

Once the process is completed and your ETA request is approved, your ETA will be delivered on your email ID. 

Tips for a Smooth UK ETA Application

A UK ETA Application must be submitted on time and with attention to detail to be successful. To improve your chances of being accepted, adhere to the following rules:

• Best Practices 

• Make a plan: To guarantee prompt processing, apply for your UK ETA at least one to two weeks before your trip.
• Check Your Information: Verify the accuracy of your travel documents and passport information twice.
• Make Use of a Working Email Address: To get notifications and updates on your application, make sure your email address is up to date.
• Send in the necessary documents: Upload all required documents, such as your itinerary and passport.
• Correctly Pay the Fee: Maintain a record of your transaction and make use of a recognised payment method.

➣ Typical Mistakes to Steer Clear of

• Incomplete or Inaccurate Information: Giving false or insufficient information may result in rejection or delays.
• Insufficient Documents: Your application may be hampered if necessary documents are not uploaded or if you submit insufficient documentation.
• Passport Inconsistencies: To prevent problems, make sure the information on your passport matches that on your travel documents.
• Applications at the Last Minute: If you submit your application too soon before your trip, it may be rejected or delayed.
• Ignoring Requests for More Information: Your application may be delayed if you do not reply to requests for additional information or supporting documentation.

End Note

A smooth voyage is assured when you are informed of your UK ETA status. By monitoring your application, promptly responding to delays, and accurately reapplying in the event of a denial, you can mitigate last-minute complications. Double-check your information, apply in advance, and keep the required documents easily accessible to ensure a smooth admission to the UK.

Frequently Asked Questions