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United Kingdom · Operational

UK ETA

A digital authorization required for visa-exempt visitors to the United Kingdom, including transit passengers.

Operational
Fee
£20
Processing
minutes–3 working days
Valid for
2 years
Who needs it
40+ nationalities
Official source · gov.uk

Who needs UK ETA

The UK Electronic Travel Authorisation is required for nationals of countries that do not need a visa to visit the UK. This includes citizens of the United States, Canada, Australia, and most European countries.

The ETA must be obtained before travel. It is linked to your passport and valid for multiple trips over two years. Transit passengers passing through UK airports also need an ETA.

How to apply

1
Download the UK ETA app

Available on iOS and Android. You can also apply on the gov.uk website.

2
Complete the application

You will need your passport, a digital photo, and a payment method. The process takes a few minutes.

3
Pay £20 and submit

Most decisions arrive within minutes. Allow up to three working days for processing.

Common rejection reasons

  • Criminal conviction or immigration violation on record
  • Previously refused a UK visa or removed from the UK
  • Passport details entered incorrectly in the application
  • Photograph does not meet biometric requirements

Frequently asked

Yes, if you pass through UK border control. Airside transit without clearing immigration may be exempt, but most connections require an ETA.

Yes. Since the UK left the European Union, EU citizens traveling to the UK without a visa need an ETA.

Yes. A UK ETA is valid for two years and allows multiple entries, each for stays of up to six months.

No. An ETA is a lightweight travel authorization. It does not permit work or long-term residence.