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How to apply for the ETA of the UK?

UK government has made it mandatory for travelers to attain “Electronic Travel Authorization” (ETA) starting from:

  • 8 January for non-EU nationals; and
  • 2 April 2025 for EU nationals.

Travelers who have visa exemptions in the UK will have to attain the first ETA before they reach the UK. Applying for the ETA is easy, online and it is directly linked with the passport.

Who can apply for the UK ETA?

Eligibility for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) depends on:

  • The travel date of the applicant.
  • If the applicant is a national of the country eligible for the UK visa exemption.

Applicants can determine their eligibility by using the ETA eligibility checker.

Who does not need an ETA?

An applicant does not require an ETA if any of the following conditions apply:

  • They already hold a valid visa.
  • They have permission to live, work, or study in the UK, including:
    • Settled or pre-settled status.
    • Right of abode.
  • They are a British or Irish citizen.
  • They are traveling with a British Overseas Territories citizen passport.
  • They live in Ireland and are traveling from Ireland, Guernsey, Jersey, or the Isle of Man.

Dual Citizens

If an applicant is a dual citizen with British or Irish citizenship, they do not need an ETA. Proof of permission to travel can be provided using one of the following:

  • A British passport.
  • An Irish passport.
  • Another passport containing a certificate of entitlement.

What an applicant can do with an ETA?

An ETA allows an applicant to visit the UK for specific purposes, including:

  • Tourism, visiting family and friends, business, or short-term study (up to 6 months).
  • Staying for up to 3 months under the Creative Worker visa concession.
  • Engaging in permitted paid activities.
  • Transit through the UK, including scenarios where the applicant does not pass through UK border control.

If the purpose of the visit falls outside these categories, the applicant must check whether a visa is required instead.

What an applicant cannot do with an ETA?

An ETA does not allow the applicant to:

  • Stay in the UK for more than 6 months.
  • Engage in paid or unpaid work for a UK company unless it is part of a permitted paid engagement or Creative Worker visa concession.
  • Claim public funds or benefits.
  • Settle in the UK through frequent or successive visits.
  • Marry, register a civil partnership, or give notice for either. In such cases, the applicant must apply for a Marriage Visitor visa.

Requirements for application

To apply, an applicant must have:

  • A valid passport (the same one used for travel; photocopies or digital passports are not accepted).
  • Access to their email account.
  • A payment method such as a credit/debit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay.

Additionally, the applicant must upload or take photos of the following:

  • Their passport.
  • A clear image of their face.

Note: Travel details are not required during the application process.

How to apply?

1- Using the UK ETA app

The quickest way to apply is via the UK ETA app. Applicants can refer to the app guide for instructions.

2- If the app cannot be used

Applicants may apply online if they:

  • Are unable to access the app.
  • Are applying on behalf of someone who is not physically present.

Cost of applying

  • The application fee is £10 per person, which includes children and infants.
  • Refunds are not available after the application has been submitted.

Processing time

  • Most applications are processed within 3 working days, though some may take longer.
  • Occasionally, decisions may be made in less than 3 days.

Group applications

  • Each applicant must submit an individual application.
  • Group members may receive their decisions at different times, even if they applied simultaneously.

After applying

Once an application is approved, the applicant will receive an email confirmation. The ETA will be electronically linked to the passport used in the application.

Urgent travel

  • Applicants must apply for their ETA before traveling to the UK.
  • Travel can proceed while waiting for a decision.

Validity of the ETA

  • The ETA is valid for 2 years and allows multiple trips to the UK within this period.
  • If the applicant gets a new passport, they must apply for a new ETA.

Entering the UK

An ETA does not guarantee entry into the UK. Upon arrival, applicants must either:

  • Meet with a Border Force officer, or
  • Use an ePassport gate if eligible.