UK ETA for Hong Kong

Hong Kong visitors to the UK for a short stay must now get the UK's electronic travel authorisation (ETA). The ETA system, which was created to improve border security, guarantees pre-screening before arrival. Before departing, holders of Hong Kong passports must apply online by providing essential personal and travel information and submit the UK ETA Application Form. Approvals are usually given in a matter of hours (through rush processing), and the process is rapid and digital.

Can Hong Kong nationals get a UK ETA on arrival?

Important: Travellers in the UK are not permitted to get an ETA at the time of arrival. You must apply and be accepted before you may board your train or aeroplane to the UK.

Key Facts

✖ No airport/port applications: Airlines and border carriers will check for your approved ETA before allowing boarding

✖ No exceptions: Without a pre-approved ETA, you risk being denied boarding or entry.

✖ Online-only Process: Applications must be submitted by filling out the UK ETA Application form.

What Happens If You Arrive Without an ETA?

• At departure, airlines and ferries have the right to reject travel.
• If you somehow arrive without permission, the UK Border Force may refuse your entry.
• Even emergency applications aren’t possible: Even last-minute requests must be done online in advance.

UK ETA Permissions & Restrictions for Hong Kong Passport Holders

Hong Kong passport holders with a valid UK electronic travel authorisation (ETA) enjoy visa-free short-term visits to the UK, but there are important restrictions. Below is a clear breakdown of permitted and prohibited activities.

✅ What You CAN Do with a UK ETA

✔ Tourism & Leisure – Explore the UK as a visitor for up to 6 months per stay

✔ Business Activities – Attend meetings, conferences, or negotiate contracts

✔ Short-Term Study – Enroll in courses under 6 months (e.g., language schools)

✔ Transit Through the UK – Stopover before traveling to another country

✔ Visit Family & Friends – Stay with relatives or partners (but not live with them permanently)

✔ Medical Treatment – Receive private healthcare (NHS treatment may require payment)

❌ What You CANNOT Do with a UK ETA

✖ Work in the UK: Paid employment requires a work visa.

✖ Long-Term Study: Degree courses or studies exceeding 6 months need a student visa.

✖ Marry or Form a Civil Partnership: Requires a Marriage Visitor Visa.

✖ Claim Public Funds (Benefits): No access to UK welfare or state support.

✖ Stay Beyond 6 Months: Overstaying invalidates your ETA and may lead to a ban.

✖ Live in the UK Permanently: The ETA does not lead to residency or citizenship.

Important Notes

1. Border officers have the final say: Even with an ETA, entry is not guaranteed.
2. Misuse can lead to bans: Working illegally or overstaying may result in future visa rejections.
3. For longer stays: Apply for the appropriate UK visa instead.

Processing Time and UK ETA Validity for Hong Kong Nationals

Processing Time Options

Hong Kong passport holders can choose from three processing speeds for their UK ETA application:

Standard Processing

• Time:1-6 Working Days.
• Best for: Travellers applying well in advance.

Rush Processing

• Time: 1- 3 Working Days.
• Best for: Those with imminent travel plans.

Super Rush Processing

• Time: 24 Hours
• Best for: Last-minute or emergency travel.

Note: Processing times are estimates and may vary during peak periods and are affected by the accuracy of the application submitted and the document uploaded.

UK ETA Validity

Duration of ETA Validity

• Your authorised UK ETA is valid for two years after the approval date.
• If your passport expires first, the validity automatically ends (whichever comes sooner).
• You are permitted to enter the UK more than once throughout this two-year term.

Duration of Every Stay

• The maximum duration of any visit is six months.
• There is no minimum amount of time that must pass between visits.

Recommended Travel Tips

• Check your passport expiry date before applying (it should be valid for the entire 2-year ETA period).
• Keep a digital copy of your ETA approval confirmation.
• Verify your ETA status before each trip if travelling near the 2-year expiry date.

Can Hong Kong Nationals Extend Their Stay with a UK ETA?

No, the UK ETA does not allow extensions beyond the maximum 6-month stay.

Key Rules

• The ETA permits short visits only (up to 6 months per entry).
• No option to renew, extend, or switch to another visa while in the UK.
• Overstaying your permitted stay is a violation of UK immigration rules.

What If You Need More Time?

• Leave before your 6 months expire: You can re-enter with the same ETA (if still valid) for a new stay.
• Apply for a proper UK visa: If you need longer than 6 months (e.g., work, study, family visa)

⚠️ Warning: Overstaying may lead to bans, fines, or future entry refusal.

Cost of the UK ETA for Hong Kong Travellers

The fee is dependent on several factors; for an exact fee calculation for the UK ETA, use the UK ETA Fee tool on the UK ETA website.

Uploading the Right Documents for UK ETA: Photo & Passport Requirements

The following are the requirements for the UK ETA. Do refer to the UK ETA Requirement webpage for detailed information.

Requirements for a Passport

1. A valid Hong Kong passport is required.
2. Your passport must still be valid for at least six months after the date you intend to enter the UK.
3. Machine-readable passports.
4. The passport you want to use for travel must be the same one (ETA is electronically connected to this passport number).

Requirements for Passport Photographs

Your passport-size photograph must comply with these strict UK government requirements.

1. Dimensions: 45 x 35 mm (normal passport size).
2. Background: Simple, cream or light grey with no shadows, patterns, or other people.
3. Expression: Eyes open, mouth closed, neutral.
4. Lighting: Consistently bright with no flash reflections or shadows.
5. Head position: Centred in the frame, facing straight ahead.
6. No spectacles (unless accompanied by a written letter stating medical necessity).
7. No head coverings, unless necessary for medical or religious reasons.

Extra Conditions

1. A working email address to confirm the ETA.
2. You must have a debit or credit card to pay the UK ETA application fee.
3. Details of a basic travel plan.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a UK ETA from Hong Kong

UK ETA Application Form Filling

Fill out the online form with your travel itinerary and passport information. You also have to attach a passport-style photo and a passport bio page. Make sure all the details match those on your passport.

Paying the UK ETA Fee

Pay the fee using any of the available payment methods. You will receive a confirmation email with your application order ID.

UK ETA Approval & Delivery

Processing takes 24 Hours (under super-rush). Once approved, your UK ETA will be electronically linked to your Hong Kong passport.

Note: You must travel using the same passport you used to apply for the approved ETAs. The ETAs are valid for two years, with each stay lasting six months.

How to Check Your UK ETA Application Status?

Use the UK ETA Status Tracking Tool by entering your Order ID and Passport Number on the UK ETA website. Most applications are processed within 24 Hours (with the super-rush processing option). If approved, your ETA is electronically linked to your passport.

Tips for a Smooth UK ETA Application Process

Applying for your UK ETA is simple if you follow these key tips:

✔ Check Your Passport First

• Your passport must be valid for your entire UK stay.
• Ensure all details are clear and readable.

✔ Prepare Your Documents

• Take a passport-type photo (plain background, no filters).
• Your Hong Kong passport’s bio page must be clear and properly readable.

✔ Fill Carefully

• Type all details exactly as shown on your passport.
• Review twice before submitting.

✔ Pay Securely

• Make sure you have a stable internet connection.
• Save the payment confirmation.
• Ensure your account has enough money.

✔ After Applying

• Check email (and spam folder) for updates.
• Approval usually comes within 24 hours (through super-rush processing).
• No print needed: Just travel with your passport.

Remember

• Same passport used = No problems at the UK border.
• Wrong info = Delays or rejection.

Troubleshooting: What If Your UK ETA Is Delayed or Denied?

If Delayed

• Check spam/junk folders for approval emails.
• Verify your payment was processed successfully.
• Contact the UK ETA Customer Support team.

If Denied

• Review refusal reasons in your denial email.
• Reapply if the issue is fixable (e.g., wrong passport details).
• Consider applying for a UK visa if ineligible for ETA.

What Entry Questions Will UK Border Officers Ask ETA Travellers from Hong Kong?

Purpose & Duration

1. "Why are you visiting?" (tourism/business)
2. "How long will you stay?" (max 6 months)

Travel Details

1. "Where are you staying?" (hotel/friend's address)
2. "Do you have a return ticket?"

Finances

1. "How much money do you have?"
2. "Who is funding your trip?"

Background Check

1. "What's your job in Hong Kong?"
2. "Have you visited the UK before?"

Quick Tips

✔ Keep your answers short and truthful.

✔ Have ETA + hotel/return ticket ready.

✔ No work/study allowed on ETA.

More questions can be asked; therefore, be prepared to answer. Border officers can deny entry even with a valid ETA.

Final Tips for Your UK ETA

The UK ETA makes visits simple for Hong Kong travellers—just apply online before your trip. Remember to:

✔ Check passport validity.

✔ Upload correct documents.

✔ Apply at least one week early.

✔ Obey all entry rules.

Approved? Pack your passport and enjoy your UK trip!

Questions? The UK ETA Customer Support Team is pleased to help.

UK ETA: Your Questions Answered