applyforanelectronictravelauthorisationeta

Menu
Menu

UK ETA

A comprehensive guide to the United Kingdom’s Electronic Travel Authorization (UK ETA) and the application submission process.
Apply Now

What is the Electronic
Travel Authorisation?

The United Kingdom Electronic Travel Authorization (UK ETA) is a permit issued by the British government for citizens of countries exempt from requiring a UK visa. Obtaining this authorization is mandatory before traveling to the UK, and it applies to visits, transits, or certain conditions for Creative Workers.

This electronic authorization offers a simplified option for eligible travelers and plays a central role in the government’s initiative to digitize border control by 2025. The UK ETA supports a range of travel purposes, such as tourism, family visits, business, and short-term study, providing a more efficient alternative to the traditional visa process.

UK Visa vs. ETA

The UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is not a visa but a special entry permit for citizens of certain visa-exempt countries. Unlike the standard visitor visa, which applies to a broader range of nationalities and typically requires a more detailed application process with offline components, the ETA provides a streamlined, fully online application system.

Another distinction between the UK standard visitor visa and the ETA lies in their validity and costs. The UK ETA is valid for up to two years or until the associated passport expires, allowing multiple entries into the UK with each stay lasting up to six months. In comparison, the standard visitor visa is issued for varying durations based on the visa type and generally permits multiple entries. Additionally, the ETA is more cost-effective compared to the range of fees associated with different visitor visas.
UK ETA
  • Entirely online application method.
  • Simple and streamlined application process.
  • Valid for up to two years.
  • More cost-effective than traditional visas.
UK Visa
  • Includes offline steps.
  • Involves a detailed application process.
  • Duration varies based on the visa type.
  • May include additional visa fees.

What do we offer?

We provide information on Electronic Travel Authorization, UK ETA requirements, and eligibility criteria, along with detailed, step-by-step instructions for preparing and submitting your application.
Apply Now
We provide information on Electronic Travel Authorization, UK ETA requirements, and eligibility criteria, along with detailed, step-by-step instructions for preparing and submitting your application.
Apply Now

Who Needs
the UK ETA?

The United Kingdom Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is being introduced in phases, beginning with nationals from select countries, starting with those from the Gulf region. Expansion to additional foreign nationals is planned for the near future.

The Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) requirement was first introduced for Qatari nationals on November 15, 2023. Starting February 1, 2024, nationals from the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Oman, and Bahrain will also be eligible to apply for an ETA, with the authorization becoming effective for travel from February 22, 2024. Additionally, the UK government plans to extend the ETA requirement to other visa-exempt nationalities, including those from European countries, by the end of 2024.

Bahrain

Kuwait

Oman

Qatar

Saudi Arabia

UAE

Bahrain

Kuwait

Oman

Qatar

Saudi Arabia

UAE

Who Doesn’t Need
the UK ETA?

Not all travelers need to obtain the UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to enter the United Kingdom. Some may require a visa instead, or they might be exempt from both visa and ETA requirements based on their specific circumstances. The UK ETA allows participation in various activities, including:

Other Nationalities

At present, nationals from visa-exempt countries who are not eligible for the ETA do not need this authorization.

Visa Holders and UK Residents

Individuals who hold a valid visa or have authorization to live, work, or study in the UK are not required to obtain the ETA.

British or Irish Passport Holders

Those with a British or Irish passport do not need to obtain the ETA.

Residents of Ireland

Travelers from Ireland, Guernsey, Jersey, or the Isle of Man are also exempt from needing the ETA.

Visa Holders and UK
Residents, Citizens

Individuals who already have a UK visa or authorization to live, work, or study in the UK are exempt.

Irish Residents and
Citizens

Non-Irish citizens who are legally residing in the Republic of Ireland and traveling from within the Common Travel Area—which includes Ireland, Guernsey, Jersey, and the Isle of Man—do not need an ETA.
Apply Now

What can I do
with the UK ETA?

The UK ETA is intended to provide eligible travelers with an easy way to explore everything the UK has to offer. However, there are specific guidelines regarding what holders of the ETA are permitted to do.

Short-term business
activities

1

Tourism or visiting family and friends.

2

Academic purposes

3

Creative workers

4

Transit through the
UK.

5

Although the UK ETA supports various travel activities, travelers may need a different type of visa for purposes not specifically covered here, even if they are eligible based on their nationality.

ETA Validity
and Duration of Stay

Validity 2 years
The ETA is a multiple-entry permit valid for two years from the date of issuance. If the holder’s passport expires before the two-year period ends, the ETA becomes invalid. ETA holders must use their authorization to travel to the UK before it expires.
Duration of Stay 6 month
Eligible travelers with an ETA can stay in the UK for up to 6 months for purposes such as tourism, visiting family or friends, business, or short-term study. Those traveling under the Creative Worker visa concession can stay for up to 3 months. Additionally, individuals using the Permitted Paid Engagement pathway are permitted to stay for up to 1 month.
Renewal Extensions
The United Kingdom ETA cannot be renewed or extended. Once issued, it is linked to the passport used during the initial application. If a traveler’s passport expires or they obtain a new one, they must apply for a new ETA. There are no options for renewing or extending the validity of an existing ETA.

UK ETA requirements

To apply for a UK ETA, eligible travelers must meet several basic requirements. The following are mandatory for all applicants:

Passport

Passports must be valid and issued by an eligible country. It is recommended to have at least two years of validity remaining to take full advantage of the ETA's validity period.

Personal Photo

Applicants are required to submit a recent portrait-style photo of their upper body that meets standard guidelines.

Payment Method

Applicants must have a valid credit or debit card, or access to Apple Pay or Google Pay, to pay the UK ETA fee.

How to Apply for the UK
ETA?

The UK ETA application process is simple and can be completed entirely online. Eligible nationals can quickly submit their application in just a few minutes.

Applicants can follow these simple steps to complete their ETA application:
Learn more about the Application Process

Fill Out the Application Form

Fill out the online application by providing your personal information and uploading the required documents.

Pay the Required Fees

Complete the payment to finalize your application submission.

Receive Your ETA

Once approved, your ETA decision will be sent to you via email. It will be electronically linked to your current passport, permitting entry into the UK with that passport.

UK ETA
Processing Time

Normal
Applicants will typically receive their UK ETA decision within three (3) working days after submitting their application. In some cases, the decision may be issued sooner, depending on the individual circumstances. However, certain situations may extend the processing time.
Delay
In certain situations, processing times may be extended:

Additional Security Checks

If further verification or security checks are needed.

High Volume of Applications

Delays can occur during peak travel times or due
 to operational reasons.

Errors or Incompleteness

Applications with mistakes or missing information
may take longer to process.

UK ETA Decision

After the application is processed, the applicant will receive a decision on their ETA application by email.

Approval

If approved, the ETA confirmation will be emailed to the applicant and electronically linked to their passport. Travelers will not need to present proof of the ETA when entering the UK. The ETA is valid for two years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first, and allows for multiple entries into the UK, with each visit lasting up to six months.

Rejection

If an ETA application is refused, the applicant will be notified of the decision. Rejection reasons may include not meeting eligibility criteria, providing incorrect information, or security issues. Applicants who are denied an ETA may need to apply for a standard UK visa, depending on their travel purpose and length of stay.

Frequently
Asked Questions

Who is eligible to apply for the Electronic Travel Authority UK?
Qatari nationals can now apply for an ETA, while nationals of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE will be able to apply for a UK ETA starting on February 1, 2024, for travel commencing on or after February 22, 2024.
What can I do in the UK while holding an ETA?
An ETA is appropriate for several purposes, such as tourism, visiting family and friends, business, short-term study (up to 6 months), Creative Worker concessions (up to 3 months), Permitted Paid Engagements (up to 1 month), and transiting through the UK.
How long is the United Kingdom ETA valid for?
The ETA is valid for two years and permits stays of varying lengths, depending on the purpose — up to 6 months for general visits, with shorter periods for creative work or permitted paid engagements.
As an EU citizen, is it necessary for me to obtain an ETA for my trip to London?
At present, EU citizens do not need an ETA. However, the UK ETA is anticipated to become a mandatory requirement for travel to England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
What is ETA Visa UK? Is it an Electronic Visa?
The United Kingdom ETA is an electronic travel authorization required for nationals of countries exempt from needing a UK visa; it is not the same as a UK eVisa. Unlike an ETA, the UK eVisa is an online document that provides information about a traveler’s immigration status and the terms of their permission to enter or remain in the UK.

We will assist you 
in
every step

Apply for your UK Electronic Travel Authorization today by completing the online form to begin the process.
Apply Now
Apply for your UK Electronic Travel Authorization today by completing the online form to begin the process.
Apply Now
Scroll to Top