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UK ETA

Your clear, up-to-date guide to the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)

The UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a digital pre-travel clearance linked to your passport. It’s not a visa, but it confirms you’re authorised to travel to the UK for short stays.

Contents

What Is the UK ETA?

The UK ETA is a digital authorisation that streamlines entry for eligible visitors while enhancing border security. With an ETA you can:

  • Tourism & visiting

    Holidays, sightseeing, or visiting friends and family.

  • Business

    Meetings, conferences, and permitted short-term business activities.

  • Short study

    Short courses and programs up to six months total stay.

  • Transit

    Connecting through a UK airport to another destination.

At a glance: An ETA generally allows multiple entries, stays of up to six months per visit, and is typically valid for two years or until your passport expires.

Jump to application steps

UK ETA Requirements & Documents

  • Valid passport

    From an eligible country – it must be the passport you travel with.

  • Digital photo

    Meets UK photo rules (plain background, clear facial features).

  • Email address

    To receive updates and your decision.

  • Payment method

    Debit/credit card or mobile wallet to pay the fee.

Each traveller, including children and infants, must have their own ETA.

Need more detail? See Documents for a UK ETA and UK ETA Requirements.

How to Apply for a UK ETA

  1. Complete the form with your personal details, passport information and travel dates.
  2. Upload your photo following UK standards.
  3. Pay the fee – currently £16 per person.
  4. Submit & track – many decisions arrive within hours; allow up to three working days.

Apply early (at least three working days before departure). For step-by-step help, read How to Apply for a UK ETA, or start via Apply for a UK ETA. Timelines: Processing Time.

Eligibility

The ETA is being introduced in phases for visa-exempt travellers. Eligibility currently includes nationals from several regions such as the United States, Canada, Australia and GCC countries. The scope will expand over time.

By purpose of travel

  • Tourism

  • Business

  • Transit

Read more: Tourism, Business, Transit.

Validity & Conditions

  • Validity

    Usually two years, or until your passport expires.

  • Entries

    Multiple entries permitted while valid.

  • Length of stay

    Up to six months per visit (shorter for some transit cases).

If you get a new passport, you must apply for a new ETA linked to that passport.

UK ETA – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is a UK ETA?

A UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) is a digital travel permission linked to your passport for short stays in the UK.

Who needs a UK ETA?

Travellers from visa‑exempt countries must obtain a UK ETA before visiting. British and Irish citizens do not need one.

How do I apply for a UK ETA?

You can apply online by entering your passport details, providing a digital photo, and paying the application fee.

What documents do I need?

You need a valid passport, a digital photo, an email address, and a payment method.

How long is a UK ETA valid?

A UK ETA is valid for 2 years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.

Does an ETA guarantee entry?

No. Border officers make the final decision on entry upon arrival.

How long does ETA processing take?

Many applications are approved within hours, but applying several days in advance is recommended.

What if my ETA is refused?

You may need to apply for a standard UK visa instead. A refusal does not block future applications.

Do children need a UK ETA?

Yes, every traveller including infants and children needs their own ETA.

What if I get a new passport?

Since an ETA is tied to your passport, you must apply for a new ETA if you receive a new passport.

Do I need to show proof of my ETA?

The ETA is digitally linked to your passport, but keeping your confirmation email is recommended.

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