An Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) allows non-visa nationals to travel to the UK. It is not a visa and does not guarantee entry into the UK. While the ETA allows you to travel to the UK, it is not a visa and does not guarantee entry. The ETA application costs £16 and can be submitted through the UK ETA app or the official GOV.UK website.
Who Needs a UK ETA?
You will need an UK ETA if you are a non-visa national travelling to the UK for up to six months for the following purposes:
- Tourism
- Visiting family or friends
- Business travel
- Short-term study
- Permitted paid engagements
- Transiting through the UK (if passing through border control)
Who Does Not Need an ETA?
You do not need an ETA to travel to the UK if you:
- Already hold a valid UK visa
- Have the legal right to live, work, or study in the UK
- Are a British or Irish citizen
- Are transiting through the UK without passing through border control
- Are travelling from within the Common Travel Area (Ireland, the Channel Islands, or the Isle of Man)
- Are a child travelling on an approved France-UK school trip
- Are exempt from UK immigration control
How to Apply for a UK ETA
Follow these steps to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation:
- Apply through the UK ETA mobile app or the GOV.UK website.
- Pay the non-refundable £16 application fee.
- Provide your passport information and contact details.
- Upload a recent, valid passport-style photograph.
- Answer background and security questions about:
- Your employment status
- Any criminal convictions (especially serious offences or sentences over 12 months)
- Any history or links to war crimes, terrorism, or extremist organisations
Processing Time: Most ETA applications are processed within three working days, though many are approved in minutes.
After You Apply
Once your ETA is submitted:
- It will be digitally linked to your passport—you must travel using the same passport you used to apply.
- You may travel to the UK while your application is pending.
- Each traveller, including minors and children, must hold their own ETA.
How Long Is a UK ETA Valid?
- An ETA is valid for 2 years or until your current passport expires, whichever comes first.
- You can make multiple trips to the UK without reapplying, as long as your ETA is valid.
- If you renew your passport, you will need to apply for a new ETA.
What Happens If Your ETA Application Is Refused?
If your ETA application is denied, you will be given a reason. However, there is no formal right of appeal. You may choose to reapply for an ETA or submit a standard UK visa application instead.
Final Note on UK Entry
Even with an approved ETA, UK Border Force officers have the final authority to grant or deny entry into the United Kingdom at the port of arrival.
Need help applying for a UK visit visa?
Our experienced immigration solicitors can assess your situation, advise on your best options, and help you prepare a strong visa application. If your ETA was refused or you’re unsure whether to apply for a visa, contact our team today for expert legal advice.
Further resources by the Home Office can be found here:
- read the guide to using the UK ETA app
- watch the ‘What is an ETA?’ video
- watch the ‘How to apply for an ETA’ video
This information was correct at the date of publishing.
