What are some of the most common mistakes when you are applying for a UK eTA?

In many instances, a UK eTA application may seem straightforward, but even small mistakes can lead to delays, rejections, or unexpected expenses. Understanding the most common errors made when you apply for UK eTA can help you save time, money, and stress. Whether you’re travelling for tourism, business, study, or family visits, avoiding these pitfalls ensures a smooth journey.

However, many travellers still encounter issues due to avoidable mistakes during the application process. From minor typos in personal details to overlooking required documents, even simple errors can result in costly delays or, in some cases, automatic rejection.

This guide highlights the most common pitfalls applicants face when they apply for UK eTA and offers clear, practical advice on how to avoid them. Being aware of these mistakes will help you submit a stronger application and enjoy a smoother trip to the United Kingdom.

Submitting Incomplete or Incorrect Application Forms

Some of the most common errors are failing to provide both accurate and complete information in the online application form.

• Mistakes found in your name, any mismatched details located on your passport, or even skipping mandatory fields can result in automatic rejection.
• Many travellers also tend to forget to review their applications before submitting them, which increases the chance of errors.

Simple Tip: Always double-check your entries—especially personal details like full name, passport number, and nationality—before hitting submit.

Uploading the Wrong Passport Copy

Your passport is the primary and most important document you are required to have, as it can completely validate your UK eTA application.

• Applicants would more often than not upload blurred scans of their passports, as well as expired passports, or copies with many missing pages.
• Your passport should remain valid throughout your journey in the UK.

Simple Tip: Always ensure that you use a very crisp and clear coloured scan of the information page within your valid passport and make sure it meets UK eTA requirements.

Using Poor-Quality or Incorrect Photographs

The digital photo you have taken for this purpose must adhere to the standards set by the UK Home Office.

• Common mistakes include cropped images, selfies, photos with shadows, or images not meeting background rules.
• Photos taken with hats, sunglasses, or heavy filters are also rejected.

Follow the photo guidelines: A plain light background, a neutral facial expression, and a recent photo taken at least 6 months before departing for the United Kingdom.

Ignoring Eligibility Requirements

Starting the application process by checking if you are a national from a Eligible Country for UK eTA is the best way to know whether or not your country is eligible to be selected for a UK eTA. There are specific requirements that require different documents or may not yet be available for your nationality. Ignoring these eligibility requirements can lead to wasted time and effort.

• There are specific UK eTAs purposes that require different documents or may not yet be available for your nationality.
• Confusion often arises between a UK e-Visa and the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), which is gradually replacing some visa types.

Simple Tip: Confirm your nationality and visa category on the UK eTA portal before applying.

Providing False or Inconsistent Information

Even minor inconsistencies can raise red flags.

• Declaring false travel history, hiding previous eTA refusals, or mismatching work details with your documents may result in.
• The information provided must match precisely with your supporting documents, which can include essential aspects such as bank statements and invitation letters.

Simple Tip: Always be honest about all your details and ensure they are consistent throughout your documentation.

Forgetting to Attach Supporting Documents

Some categories of UK visas, such as work or student visas, require additional supporting documents.

• Plenty of applicants applying for the UK visa would often forget to upload a source for their proof of funds, accommodation details, or travel itineraries, which can lead to several complications during the submission of their applications.
• Submitting any incomplete documentation has often led to a plethora of requests for additional information or outright rejection.

Simple Tip: Prepare all the required documents in advance to avoid missing anything significant, while also ensuring they are in the correct digital format (PDF or JPG).

Ignoring Payment Issues

Payment failures are more common than expected.

• Using unsupported cards, insufficient balance, or mismatched cardholder names often causes delays.
• Some applicants mistakenly believe their application is submitted even though the payment never went through.

Simple Tip: Ensure you use an accepted payment method and keep a screenshot of the confirmation page.

Waiting Until the Last Minute

Applying too close to your travel date is a risky mistake.

• UK eTA processing times can vary, and during peak travel seasons, delays are common.
• Applying late leaves no room for corrections in case your application is rejected.

Simple Tip: Apply well in advance, which would ideally be at least 2–3 weeks before your trip.

Not Checking Application Status

Some applicants submit and then assume everything is fine.

• Failing to track the UK eTA Application Status may result in missed requests for additional documents or clarifications
• Ignoring these requests often leads to automatic rejection

Simple Tip: Regularly log in to your application portal and check your email updates until you receive final approval

Forgetting to Print or Save Your UK eTA Copy

Even if your UK eTA is approved, you still need to carry proof.

• Travellers often forget to download the approved UK eTA or arrive at the airport without a copy.
• Some airlines may not allow boarding without a printed or digital copy of the ticket.

Simple Tip: Always keep both a printed copy and a digital copy (saved on your phone or email) before travelling

Some Great Tips that Ensure a Smooth UK e-Visa Process

• Double-check your travel dates and ensure they match your visa validity.
• Keep your passport and visa copies safe during travel.
• Be aware of refund and cancellation policies—fees are usually non-refundable.
• Check the UK eTA guidelines before applying for specialised categories like study, business, or medical travel.