UK Electronic Travel Authorisation
What is the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)?
The UK ETA is a new entry authorisation required for travellers from certain countries. Advance permission to travel or transit through the UK is required for travellers who don’t have a VISA or UK immigration status. An ETA allows travel to the UK for up to 6 months for tourism, visiting family or certain other reasons.
Who Needs to Apply?
Most visitors travelling to the UK will need either a Visa or an ETA, depending on the factors below:
Nationality
Reason for travelling to the UK
An ETA rather than a Visa is usually required if you’re travelling from Europe, the USA, Australia, Canada or a few other countries.
Who doesn’t need to apply for an ETA?
You don’t need an ETA to travel to the UK if:
You’re a British or Irish citizen
You have a Visa for the UK
You’re travelling through a UK Airport and will not pass border control
You have permission to live, work or study in the UK
You have a British overseas territories citizen passport
How to Apply:
Key Information:
How Long it Lasts: A UK ETA is valid for two years and permits a visit to the UK for a duration of six months.
Application Fee: £16/$22/€19. Each traveller must have an individual application.
Processing time: Applications are usually processed within three working days.
New/Multiple Passports: A new UK ETA will be needed when a traveller has a new passport. Travellers with multiple passports must travel with the passport the ETA is linked to.