Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the UK ETA?

  • How do I update my ETA if I get a new passport?

    You must reapply for a new ETA linked to your updated passport details.

  • What happens if my ETA is denied?

    If your ETA is refused, you’ll need to apply for a standard UK visa to travel.

  • Can I use the ETA to work in the UK?

    No. The ETA does not permit employment. For work purposes, you must apply for an appropriate UK work visa.

  • How long does ETA approval take?

    Most applications are processed within a few days. For more details, see our Processing Time guide.

  • Is the UK ETA the same as a visa?

    No. The ETA is a visa waiver, not a visa. It grants pre-travel authorization for visa-exempt nationals.

How the UK ETA Works

  • Can I enter the UK if my ETA is still “pending”?

    No. You must wait until your ETA is approved before boarding your flight or ferry to the UK. Travelers without a valid ETA may be denied boarding.

  • Is the UK ETA linked to my airline ticket?

    No. The ETA is linked to your passport, not your flight booking. However, airlines will verify your ETA status before boarding to ensure compliance with UK entry rules.

  • How can I check the status of my ETA application?

    After submission, you’ll receive email updates. You can also check your ETA status using the official application portal where you originally applied

  • Can children or minors apply for an ETA?

    Yes, but each traveler, including minors and infants, must have their own ETA. Parents or guardians can complete the application on their behalf.

  • What happens if I make a mistake on my ETA application?

    If you notice an error after submitting your application, you’ll need to reapply for a new ETA with the correct information. Incorrect details (like a wrong passport number) will invalidate your authorization.

  • Can I use the same ETA to visit Northern Ireland or Scotland?

    Yes. The UK ETA covers all parts of the United Kingdom, including England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland — provided you enter through a UK border point.

  • Does the UK ETA guarantee entry into the country?

    No. The ETA allows you to travel to the UK, but the final decision on entry is made by UK Border Force officers at the point of arrival.

  • How long is a UK ETA valid once approved?

    The ETA typically remains valid for two years, or until your passport expires — whichever happens first. You can use it for multiple visits during that time.

  • Can I update my travel dates after receiving my ETA?

    Yes. The UK ETA is not tied to a specific trip or flight. As long as your ETA remains valid and your passport details haven’t changed, you can travel freely within the validity period.

  • Do I need to print my UK ETA before traveling?

    No, you don’t need to print your ETA. Once approved, your ETA is digitally linked to your passport. When you arrive in the UK, border officers can verify it electronically.

Why the UK Introduced the ETA

  • Will the ETA affect UK citizens or residents?

    No. UK citizens and permanent residents do not need an ETA. It only applies to visitors from visa-exempt countries entering the UK temporarily.

  • How is the ETA linked to my passport?

    Your ETA is digitally linked to your passport number. You won’t need to print or carry any physical document — your passport acts as your authorization.

  • Can I still enter the UK without an ETA if I’m eligible?

    No. Once your country becomes eligible for the ETA requirement, you must have an approved ETA before boarding your flight or ferry to the UK.

  • Does the ETA system store personal data securely?

    Absolutely. The UK government ensures that all ETA data is stored and managed under strict data protection and privacy standards, in compliance with UK law.

  • Will everyone eventually need an ETA?

    Yes. Once the rollout is complete, all non-visa nationals (those who don’t need a visa for short visits) will be required to have an ETA before traveling to the UK.

  • When did the UK start rolling out the ETA system?

    The rollout began in 2023 for citizens of select Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and is being expanded to other visa-exempt nations through 2024–2025.

  • How does the ETA help the UK government?

    It helps the government:

    • Identify risks before travelers arrive.
    • Track visitor movements more efficiently.
    • Reduce illegal immigration.
    • Simplify entry management for approved travelers.

  • Does the ETA make travel to the UK faster?

    Yes. The ETA allows pre-cleared travelers to enter the UK more quickly, reducing wait times and manual checks at border control.

  • Is the ETA replacing the UK visa?

    No. The ETA is not a visa — it’s a digital pre-travel authorization for travelers from visa-exempt countries. Those who require a visa will still need to apply for one through standard procedures.

  • Why did the UK introduce the ETA system?

    The UK introduced the ETA to enhance border security, streamline immigration control, and collect pre-travel information for better risk management.

Who Needs to Apply for a UK ETA

  • What if I’m denied an ETA?

    You can still apply for a standard UK visa through traditional channels. ETA refusal doesn’t permanently bar entry — it simply requires further assessment.

  • Do I need an ETA if I’m a dual citizen?

    If one of your citizenships is from a visa-exempt country, you’ll need an ETA when traveling with that passport.
    However, if you’re also a UK or Irish citizen, you’re exempt.

  • What happens if my ETA expires while I’m in the UK?

    You’ll be allowed to complete your stay, but you must apply for a new ETA before your next trip.

  • Can I enter the UK multiple times with one ETA?

    Yes. Your ETA allows multiple entries into the UK within its validity period, as long as each visit is under 6 months.

  • What if I’m traveling to Ireland but connecting through the UK?

    You will need an ETA if you pass through a UK airport, even if your final destination is Ireland.

  • Do children need their own ETA?

    Yes. Every traveler — including infants and minors — must have a separate ETA linked to their own passport.

  • I already have a UK visa. Do I still need an ETA?

    No. If you have a valid UK visa, residence permit, or settled/pre-settled status, you don’t need an ETA.

  • Do EU citizens need a UK ETA?

    Yes. From 2025, most EU citizens will be required to apply for a UK ETA before traveling, even for short stays.