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UK ETA Requirements for Japan Citizens

Everything Japan travellers need to visit or transit the UK with an ETA in 2025.



Do Japan citizens need a UK ETA?


Japanese passport holders are eligible for the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) when travelling to the United Kingdom for short visits or airport transit. The ETA is an online pre‑travel authorisation linked to your passport and required for visa‑free travel.


  • Fee

    £16 per application, payable online.

  • Validity

    Valid for 2 years or until your passport expires.

  • Stay & entries

    Multiple entries; generally up to 6 months per visit under visitor rules.

  • Processing time

    Often within hours; allow up to 3 working days.

Eligibility Overview

Apply for UK ETA


Requirements for Japan applicants


  • Valid Japanese biometric passport

    Apply using the same passport you plan to travel with.

  • Recent digital photo

    Plain background, neutral expression, no glare.

  • Email address

    For receiving ETA confirmations and status updates.

  • Payment method

    Debit/credit card or digital wallet to pay the £16 fee.

Full Requirements

Photo & Passport Rules


What Japan nationals can do on an ETA


Allowed (examples)


  • Tourism, visiting family/friends, attending events

  • Business meetings, conferences, trade visits

  • Short study (≤ 6 months) and airport transit


Not allowed


  • Paid work, self-employment, providing services to UK clients

  • Internships, training with pay, or long-term assignments

  • Long-term study or residence


If you plan to work or stay long-term in the UK, you’ll need to apply for the appropriate visa instead of an ETA.



How to apply (for Japan citizens)


  • Start your application online or via the ETA app

    Create an account or sign in to begin.

  • Scan your passport & upload photo

    Use NFC if your device supports it.

  • Answer eligibility questions

    Choose your reason for travel: tourism, business, or transit.

  • Pay £16 and submit

    A confirmation email will be sent immediately.

  • Wait for your ETA decision

    Most are approved within hours; allow up to 3 working days.

Apply for UK ETA

Processing Time


UK ETA – FAQ for Japan Citizens


Do Japan citizens need a UK ETA?

Yes. Japanese passport holders must obtain an ETA to visit or transit the UK visa‑free.

What documents are needed for the ETA application?

A valid Japanese biometric passport, a digital photo, an email address, and a payment method for the £16 fee.

How long is the ETA valid?

Two years, or until your passport expires—whichever comes first.

How long does approval take?

Many applications are approved within hours; allow up to 3 working days for checks.

Can Japan citizens work in the UK on an ETA?

No. The ETA only allows visits for tourism, business, study (≤ 6 months), or transit. Paid work requires a visa.

Do I need an ETA if I already have a UK visa?

No. If you have a valid UK visa, you don’t need an ETA while it’s active.

What if my ETA is refused?

You may apply for the appropriate UK visa for your travel purpose and submit supporting documents.




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