What is the UK ETA?
The UK ETA is a new process allowing travellers to apply for temporary permission to enter the UK without needing a full visa. It's quick and easy to apply for through a mobile app or online portal, eliminating the need for Embassy visits or paper forms.

When can the ETA be used?

- For stays of up to 6 months for tourism, visiting family and friends, business, or short-term study.

- For stays of up to 3 months on the Creative Worker visa concession.

- For permitted paid engagements or if you are transiting through the UK (even if you won't go through UK border control).

What’s not allowed with an ETA?

- Staying in the UK for more than 6 months.

- Paid or unpaid work for a UK company or as a self-employed person (unless it's a permitted paid engagement or on the Creative Worker visa concession).

- Claiming public funds or benefits.

- Frequent or successive visits to live in the UK.

- Getting married or registering a civil partnership (you'd need to apply for a Marriage Visitor visa for that).

How much does the ETA cost?

Applying costs just £10, and every traveller, including babies and children, requires their own application. For added convenience, applications can also be submitted on behalf of others.

What do you need to apply?

- A passport (must be the one you will travel with).

- Access to email.

- A payment method: credit/debit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay.

You will need to upload or take photos of:

- Your passport.

- Your face.

Who needs to apply?

The ETA is now mandatory for travel to the UK for non-European nationals. For European nationals, applications will open on 5th March 2025, and the ETA requirement will become mandatory from 2nd April 2025. You can find the full list of eligible countries and dates here:
Check if you can get an electronic travel authorisation (ETA)

How to apply?
Via a mobile app or online portal here: Apply for an electronic travel authorisation (ETA).
The process typically takes 3 days, but we recommend applying well ahead of travel to avoid last-minute issues.