What is Electronic Travel Authorisation?
An ETA is a digital permission to travel to the UK for short stays of up to six months. It is not a visa and does not guarantee entry, but it is mandatory for most visitors who do not need a visa. The ETA is linked electronically to your passport and checked by airlines before boarding.
Who needs an ETA?
You must obtain an ETA if:
- You are from a visa-waiver country (e.g., USA, Canada, Australia, EU member states, Gulf countries).
- You are visiting the UK for tourism, family visits, business meetings, short-term study, or transit.
- You do not already hold a UK visa or immigration status.
You do not need an ETA if:
- You are a British or Irish citizen.
- You hold settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme.
- You have a valid UK visa or permission to live, work, or study in the UK.
- You are transiting airside without passing through UK border control.
Key features
- Cost: £16 per applicant.
- Validity: Two years or until your passport expires (whichever is sooner).
- Multiple entries: Travel to the UK as often as you like during validity.
- Duration per visit: Up to six months.
- Mandatory: Airlines will deny boarding without an ETA.
How to apply for an ETA
The quickest way to apply for ETA is via the UK ETA app (available on iOS and Android) or online at GOV.UK. You’ll need:
- A valid passport.
- A recent digital photo.
- An email address.
- A debit/credit card or Apple Pay/Google Pay for payment.
Steps:
- Download the UK ETA app or apply online.
- Scan your passport and upload a photo.
- Answer security and suitability questions.
- Pay the fee.
- Receive your ETA confirmation by email (usually within minutes; allow up to three working days for checks).
Recent updates
- Full enforcement from 25 February 2026 – “No Permission, No Travel” policy applies.
- Expanded eligibility – EU nationals now require an ETA for short visits.
- Digital-first system – All applications processed online or via the app.
- Security checks – Applicants with criminal records or unclear data may face up to 72-hour review.
What you can do with an ETA
- Tourism and leisure.
- Visiting family and friends.
- Business meetings and permitted paid engagements.
- Short-term study (up to 6 months).
- Transit through the UK.
What you cannot do:
- Work or take long-term employment.
- Access public funds.
- Stay beyond 6 months or use ETA for settlement.
Common mistakes
- Applying too late (apply at least 3 working days before travel).
- Using the wrong passport (ETA is linked to the passport used for application).
- Poor-quality photo uploads.
- Assuming ETA guarantees entry (border officers still make final decisions).
How we can help
Our immigration team offers:
- Eligibility checks – confirm if you need an ETA or a visa.
- Step-by-step application support – avoid errors and delays.
- Advice for complex cases – criminality or previous immigration issues.
- Corporate travel compliance – ensure your staff meet ETA requirements.
Start your UK ETA application today
Don’t risk denied boarding. Contact us for a free initial consultation with one of our specialist immigration solicitors and let us help you secure your Electronic Travel Authorisation quickly and efficiently.