UK ETA vs US ESTA
Both are electronic travel authorizations, but how do they compare?
| Feature | 🇬🇧 UK ETA | 🇺🇸 US ESTA |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | £16 (~$20) | $21 (~£17) |
| Validity | 2 years | 2 years |
| Max Stay | 6 months per visit | 90 days per visit |
| Processing | Up to 3 days | Usually 72 hours |
| Covers | England, Scotland, Wales, N. Ireland | USA only |
| Launched | 2024 (expanded 2025) | 2009 |
🇬🇧 UK ETA Advantage
Longer maximum stay (6 months vs 90 days) makes it better for extended visits, remote work, or family stays.
🇺🇸 ESTA Advantage
More established system (since 2009) with well-known processes. Covers more countries in VWP.
Key Similarities
- Both are not visas - they're pre-travel authorizations
- Both valid for 2 years or until passport expires
- Both allow multiple entries
- Both for tourism, business, and transit
- Both required before boarding your flight
Do I Need Both?
If you're traveling to both the UK and USA, you'll need both an ETA and an ESTA. They're completely separate systems run by different countries.
Total cost: £16 (UK ETA) + $21 (US ESTA) = approximately £33 / $41 for both.