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UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)
Everything you need to know about the UK ETA system.
The UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is required for visa-exempt travelers visiting the United Kingdom. It is separate from ETIAS, which covers Schengen countries.
- Cost
- £20
- Validity
- 2 years
- Processing
- Up to 3 days
- Entries
- Multiple
- Per application
- £20
- Validity period
- 2 years
- Maximum stay per visit
- 6 months
What is the UK ETA?
The UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a digital travel permission required for visa-exempt visitors to the United Kingdom. It is similar to the US ESTA or the upcoming ETIAS for Europe.
The UK ETA allows multiple entries over its 2-year validity, with stays of up to 6 months per visit. Unlike the Schengen Area's rolling 90/180 day rule, the UK calculates stay limits per individual visit.
UK ETA Key Facts
- Cost
- £20
- Validity
- 2 years
- Entries
- Multiple
- Processing
- 3 days
- Max Stay
- 6 months
- Children
- Required
Non-refundable fee
Or until passport expires
Unlimited during validity
Usually much faster
Per visit to the UK
All ages need ETA
UK ETA Rollout Timeline
Oct 2023
Oct 2023
First launch for Qatar
Feb 2024
Feb 2024
GCC countries added (UAE, Saudi Arabia, and others)
Sep 2024
Sep 2024
Jordan removed due to violations
Nov 2024
Nov 2024
Non-European visa-exempt nationalities
Mar 2025
Mar 2025
European nationalities (travel from April 2025)
25 Feb 2026
25 Feb 2026
Full enforcement — mandatory for boarding
Do you need a UK ETA?
Almost every visa-exempt traveler does. A short list of categories is exempt.
- All visitors from visa-exempt countries (including US, Canada, Australia, EU citizens)
- Travelers from GCC countries (UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman)
- Everyone, including children. No age exemptions.
- People transiting through UK border control
- British and Irish citizens
- Residents of Ireland traveling within the Common Travel Area (CTA)
- Holders of valid UK visas or residence permits
- Diplomats and military personnel on official duty
- Flight crew on duty
- Airside transit at Heathrow or Manchester (most nationalities)
How to Apply for UK ETA
- 1
Download the UK ETA App
Available for iOS and Android. You can also apply via the GOV.UK website.
- 2
Prepare Your Documents
You'll need a valid passport, a recent photo (or use the app to take one), and a payment method.
- 3
Complete the Application
Enter your personal details, passport information, and answer security questions about criminal history and previous UK refusals.
- 4
Pay the £20 Fee
Payment is required to submit. The fee is non-refundable regardless of outcome.
- 5
Receive Your ETA
Most applications are approved within minutes. Official processing time is up to 3 working days. Check your email for confirmation.
UK ETA vs Similar Systems
| UK ETA | US ESTA | ETIAS (Europe) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | £20 | $40.27 | €20 |
| Validity | 2 years | 2 years | 3 years |
| Max Stay | 6 months/visit | 90 days | 90/180 days |
| Processing | Minutes to 3 days | Minutes to 72 hrs | Minutes to 30 days |
| Countries | UK only | USA only | 30 Schengen states |
| Child Exemption | None | None | Free under 18 |
What If My UK ETA Is Denied?
If your UK ETA application is refused, you will receive a notification explaining the reason. Common reasons include:
- Criminal history that makes you ineligible
- Previous UK immigration violations
- Providing false information
- Security concerns
If denied, you may be able to apply for a standard UK visa instead, which involves a more thorough review process including an interview. There is no formal appeal process for ETA refusals.
UK ETA FAQs
Do I need UK ETA if I have a Schengen visa?
If you need a Schengen visa, you likely also need a UK visa (not just an ETA). The UK ETA is only for nationalities that are visa-exempt for the UK. Check your specific nationality's UK requirements.
Can I work in the UK with an ETA?
No. The UK ETA is for tourism, visiting family, business meetings, and short-term study only. You cannot work or receive payment for services. For work, you need a UK work visa.
What if I get a new passport?
The UK ETA is linked to your passport. If you get a new passport, you will need to apply for a new ETA before traveling.
Does UK ETA guarantee entry?
No. Like all travel authorizations, the UK ETA allows you to travel to the UK but does not guarantee entry. Border officers make the final decision upon arrival.
Can I stay longer than 6 months?
No. The maximum stay per visit is 6 months. If you need to stay longer, you must apply for a UK visa or leave and return (after an appropriate gap).
Is UK ETA required for Ireland?
No. Ireland is not part of the UK. Ireland has the Common Travel Area (CTA) with the UK, which is a separate arrangement. EU citizens do not need authorization for Ireland.