For visitors without a visa, the UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is a new entrance requirement. Who needs an ETA, how to apply, the expenses, and important dates for 2025 are all covered in this guide.
For the UK, who needs an ETA?
A new requirement under the UK’s digital border plan is the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system. Before taking a journey to the UK, visitors from nations that do not require a visa must apply for an ETA. With varying application dates based on nationality, the rollout is taking place in phases.
The full list of nations that must apply for an ETA is provided below, arranged according to the dates of implementation.
Countries Requiring a UK ETA from January 1, 2025
Countries Requiring a UK ETA from March 5, 2025
Who Doesn’t Require an ETA for the UK? Complete List of Exemptions
UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) Exemptions
Although many visa-exempt travelers must obtain a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), certain individuals are exempt. You do not need to apply for a UK ETA if you fall into any of the following categories:
- Hold a valid UK visa
- Have authorization to live, work, or study in the UK, including:
- Settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme
- Right of abode in the UK
- Are a British or Irish citizen
- Possess a British Overseas Territories Citizen (BOTC) passport
- Reside in Ireland and are traveling from:
- Ireland
- Guernsey
- Jersey
- Isle of Man
- Hold dual citizenship, with one nationality being British or Irish
To prove eligibility as a dual citizen, you must use one of the following:
- A valid British passport
- A valid Irish passport
- Another passport with a Certificate of Entitlement
UK ETA Permissions and Restrictions
A UK ETA allows eligible travelers short-term visits, but with specific limitations. Understanding what is permitted and prohibited under an ETA is essential before applying.
With a UK ETA, you may:
- Stay in the UK for up to six months for:
- Tourism (vacations, sightseeing, cultural visits)
- Visiting family and friends
- Business purposes (meetings, conferences, interviews)
- Short-term study at an accredited institution
- Stay for up to three months under the Creative Worker Visa Concession for employment in creative industries
- Enter for a permitted paid engagement, such as lectures, performances, or professional work
- Transit through the UK if passing through border control (landsid transit)
- No ETA is required for airside transit (without passing border control)
With a UK ETA, you cannot:
- Stay longer than six months
- Work in the UK for a UK employer or as a self-employed individual (except under permitted paid engagement or Creative Worker Visa Concession)
- Claim public funds (benefits)
- Use frequent visits to establish residency
- Get married or register a civil partnership (a Marriage Visitor Visa is required)
If you wish to work, study long-term, or settle in the UK, a standard UK visa may be necessary.
UK ETA Cost and Validity
- Application Fee: £10 per person (non-refundable, even if denied)
- Validity: Two years or until the passport used to apply expires, whichever comes first
- Multiple Entries: Allows multiple visits within its validity period, with each stay up to six months
- Passport Requirement: Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay; if it expires, a new ETA is required
Applying for a UK ETA: Step-by-Step Guide
Applications for a UK ETA must be completed using the UK ETA app, as no online portal exists. If you cannot download the app, you must use another compatible device.
- Check Device Compatibility
- iPhone: iPhone 7 or later, iOS 15+, 179MB free storage, internet access
- Android: Android 8.0+, 165MB free storage, NFC capability, internet access
- Download the UK ETA App
- Available on the Apple App Store (iOS) and Google Play Store (Android)
- Prepare Your Documents
- A biometric passport (valid for travel)
- A valid email address
- Payment method (credit/debit card, Apple Pay, Google Pay)
- Complete the Application Process
- Scan Your Passport: Place it on a flat surface for a clear image
- Read the Biometric Chip: Hold your phone steady over the passport cover
- Facial Recognition & Selfie Upload: Ensure good lighting, remove accessories, and use a plain background
- Answer Security & Travel Questions: Verify all information before submission
- Pay the £10 Fee: Use a secure payment method
Alternative Application Options
- If you cannot download the app: Use another compatible smartphone or ask someone to apply on your behalf.
- Applying for others: You can submit an application for another person if they are present with their biometric passport.
Processing Time
- UK ETA applications are typically processed within three business days.
- Many applicants receive approval within minutes.
- Applying in advance is advised to avoid delays.
Avoiding UK ETA Scams
- Only use the official UK ETA app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
- Avoid third-party websites that charge extra fees or collect personal data fraudulently.
- Verify website URLs before entering personal information.
- Report suspected scams to the UK government fraud prevention team.
UK ETA: Convenient Travel or Long-Term Stay?
A UK ETA streamlines short-term travel for visa-exempt visitors. Processing is usually swift (under 10 minutes to 3 business days) when applying through the official app.
For those seeking long-term opportunities in the UK, visas such as the Innovator Founder Visa (for entrepreneurs), UK Expansion Worker Visa (for business professionals), and Skilled Worker Visa (for job seekers) provide pathways to residency and settlement.
FAQs About UK ETA
- Is a UK ETA a visa? No, it is a travel authorization, not a visa. Unlike a visa, an ETA does not require an embassy visit or biometric data submission and allows short-term stays of up to six months.
- Can I visit the UK without a visa? Yes, visa-exempt travelers can enter with a UK ETA. Others need a Standard Visitor Visa or appropriate visa type.
- Do children need a UK ETA? Yes, all travelers, including infants, must have an approved UK ETA.
- Can parents apply for a child’s ETA? Yes, using the child’s biometric passport, travel details, and a £10 application fee.
- Do elderly travelers need an ETA? Yes, all visa-exempt travelers require one. A family member or travel agent may assist if needed.
- What happens if a traveler does not have an ETA? They will not be permitted to board their flight to the UK. Applying in advance is recommended.
References
- UK Government: Apply for an ETA – www.gov.uk
- UK Government: Using the UK ETA App – www.gov.uk
- UK Government: Visa Requirements – www.gov.uk
- UK Government: UK Work Visas – www.gov.uk
