UK ETA Frequently Asked Questions

UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) is a digital travel permit required for visa-exempt visitors to the UK from 2025. It's similar to the US ESTA or Canada eTA. The ETA costs £16, is valid for 2 years, and allows multiple visits of up to 6 months each.

UK ETA launched in phases: Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nationals from November 2023, non-European nationals from January 8, 2025, and EU/EEA citizens from April 2, 2025.

UK ETA is valid for 2 years from the date of issue, or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. During this time, you can make unlimited visits to the UK, each up to 6 months.

No. ETA is a simpler, cheaper travel authorisation for visa-exempt nationals. A Standard Visitor Visa costs £115+, requires more documentation, and takes longer. ETA holders don't need a physical visa in their passport.

Yes. Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, and England are all part of the United Kingdom. One ETA covers travel to all parts of the UK.

The official UK ETA costs £16 per person. This is a one-time fee for a 2-year authorisation. There are no hidden fees when applying through the official GOV.UK website. Be wary of unofficial sites charging £50-150+.

Yes. Children of all ages, including infants, need their own ETA. Each application costs £16.

No. The £16 fee is non-refundable, even if your application is rejected or you cancel your travel plans.

The official GOV.UK website accepts major credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express) and some digital wallets.

UK ETA processing takes up to 3 working days. However, most applications are approved within a few hours or by the next day. Always apply at least 3 days before your planned departure.

No. UK ETA must be obtained before you travel. You cannot apply at the airport, on the plane, or upon arrival. Airlines will check your ETA status before allowing you to board.

You can check your ETA status on the official GOV.UK website using your application reference number and passport details. You'll also receive email updates about your application.

Some applications require additional review, especially if there are questions about your background or travel history. If it's been more than 3 working days, check your spam folder for emails from GOV.UK.

Yes. US citizens need an ETA from January 8, 2025. The cost is £16 and it's valid for 2 years, allowing multiple visits of up to 6 months each.

Yes, from April 2, 2025. All EU/EEA citizens need an ETA to visit the UK. This includes citizens of France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Poland, and all other EU member states.

Yes. Canadian citizens need an ETA from January 8, 2025. Apply online for £16 before travelling.

Yes. Australian citizens need an ETA from January 8, 2025 to visit the UK.

No. Irish citizens are exempt from ETA requirements due to the Common Travel Area agreement between the UK and Ireland.

No. Indian citizens are not eligible for ETA. They must apply for a Standard Visitor Visa (£115+) instead, as India is not on the visa-exempt list.

In most cases, yes. If you need to pass through UK border control to change flights, you need an ETA. Some airside transit passengers (staying in the secure area within 24 hours) may be exempt—check GOV.UK for specific rules.

It depends. If your connection requires changing terminals (passing through immigration), you need an ETA. If staying airside within the same terminal for under 24 hours, you may be exempt.

Yes. With an approved ETA, you can exit the airport during your layover to visit London or other UK destinations before continuing your journey.

Yes. ETAs can be refused for various reasons including criminal history, previous immigration violations, security concerns, or errors in your application.

If your ETA is rejected, there is no formal appeal process. You have two options: apply for a Standard Visitor Visa (£115+, more thorough review), or correct any errors and reapply for an ETA.

No. You must have an approved ETA before boarding your flight to the UK. Airlines will check your status and deny boarding without valid authorisation.

If you get a new passport, you must apply for a new ETA. The ETA is linked to your specific passport number.