UK ETA Application
Apply for your UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) in minutes — requirements, documents, fees & validity.
Quick Facts (Before You Apply)
£16 per personCost
5–10 minutesTime to complete
Usually hours; allow up to 3 working daysProcessing
2 years or until passport expiry; multiple entriesValidity
UK ETA Application Requirements
To submit a successful application, you’ll need:
Valid passport
From an eligible country — it must be the passport you will travel with.
Digital photo
Recent, plain background, neutral expression.
Email address
For notifications and decision.
Payment method
Debit/credit card, Apple Pay or Google Pay.
Each traveller — including children and infants — must have their own ETA.
Learn more: Full Requirements · Photo & Document Guidelines
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
You can apply online or via the UK ETA mobile app.
Step 1
Start your application
Go to the official app or portal and begin a new application. Start Application.
Enter details
Provide personal data, passport info, and basic travel plans. If your passport has NFC, the app can scan it.
Step 2
Step 3
Upload photo
Follow UK photo rules (plain background, neutral expression, good lighting).
Pay the fee
Pay £16 securely with card or mobile wallet.
Step 4
Step 5
Submit & wait
Most decisions arrive within hours; some can take up to 3 working days.
After approval
Your ETA is electronically linked to your passport. Travel with the same passport — no printout required.
Step 6
Required Documents (Checklist)
Passport (valid through your trip)
Use the same passport you will travel with; details must match exactly.
Digital photo (recent)
Plain, light background • Neutral expression • No glare/shadows.
Payment method
Debit/credit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay to pay the £16 fee.
Email address
For application updates and your decision.
Each traveller — including children and infants — must have their own ETA.
Photo tips (avoid rejections)
• Plain, light background
• Face camera, neutral expression
• No hats/sunglasses; eyes visible
• Avoid shadows and glare
Fees & Payment
Application fee: £16 per person
Non-refundable (even if refused)
Cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay accepted
Processing Time
Typical decisions arrive within a few hours; allow up to 3 working days for additional checks. Apply at least 3 days before travel (earlier is safer).
Validity & Travel Conditions
Validity: 2 years or until passport expires
Multiple entries while valid
Stay up to 6 months per visit
New passport = new ETA application
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using unofficial websites
Can lead to overcharges or scams — apply via the official app/portal.
Poor-quality photo
Blur, shadows, wrong background or sunglasses cause delays/rejections.
Incorrect passport number
Enter exactly as shown on your passport; double-check digits and letters.
Applying too late
Allow up to 3 working days for checks — apply earlier to be safe.
Who Is Eligible?
The ETA is being rolled out in phases to visa-exempt travellers, including several nationalities (e.g., US, Canada, Australia, GCC). Coverage will expand.
Application FAQs
Is ETA a visa?
No. It’s a pre-travel authorisation linked to your passport.
Do children need their own ETA?
Yes — every traveller needs a separate application and fee.
Can I apply for multiple people?
Yes, but each person must submit an individual application.
What if my ETA is refused?
You may be able to apply for a UK visa depending on your circumstances.
Do I need to print anything?
No — the ETA is digital and linked to your passport.
Application FAQs
Can I submit one application for my whole family? No. Each traveller — including children and infants — must submit a separate application and pay the fee.
My photo keeps failing — what am I doing wrong? Common issues are shadows, dark backgrounds, glare, tilted head or sunglasses. Use a plain light background, keep a neutral expression and ensure your face is centered and evenly lit.
I made a mistake after submitting — how do I fix it? Usually you need to submit a new application with the correct details. If the approved ETA has the wrong passport number, apply again using the correct passport.
How do I check my application status? Watch for email updates. If you used the mobile app, you can also check the status in the app. Allow up to 3 working days.
Do I need to print the ETA? No. It’s linked to your passport electronically. Travel with the same passport you used to apply.
I got a new passport — can I transfer my ETA? No. ETAs can’t be transferred. Submit a new application with the new passport.
What payment methods can I use? Major debit/credit cards, Apple Pay and Google Pay (where available).
Is the fee refundable if I cancel or get refused? No. The £16 fee is non‑refundable in all cases.
UK ETA
UK ETA
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