United Kingdom ETA – Apply Online
Valid for 2 years with multiple entries, up to 6 months per stay.
What is the UK ETA?
The UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is an official travel permission linked digitally to your passport. It allows eligible citizens from qualifying countries to visit the United Kingdom for tourism, business, transit, or short-term study without needing a full visa. The ETA is valid for 2 years and allows multiple entries, with each stay up to 6 months.
Important: The UK ETA does NOT guarantee entry into the United Kingdom. Final admission is determined by UK Border Force officers at the port of entry.
Who Needs a UK ETA?
The ETA is required for:
Citizens of eligible countries visiting for tourism or leisure purposes
Travelers attending business meetings, conferences, or short-term work activities
Passengers transiting through UK airports to another destination
Who Does NOT Need an ETA:
- British and Irish citizens do not need an ETA
- People who already hold a valid UK visa are exempt
- British Overseas Territory citizens do not need an ETA
Countries Eligible for UK ETA
Citizens of the following 85 nationalities are required to obtain a UK ETA before travelling to or transiting through the United Kingdom:
Note: This list is current as of 2026. Trinidad & Tobago, Jordan, Colombia, Nauru, Nicaragua, and Saint Lucia have been removed from the list and now require a standard UK visa. Always verify at gov.uk before travelling.
UK ETA Types & Purposes
The UK ETA covers several types of visits
Tourism & Leisure
Holidays, sightseeing, and visiting friends or family. Each stay up to 6 months.
Business Travel
Meetings, conferences, and events. Not valid for working in the UK.
Transit
Passing through on the way to another country. Valid at UK airports.
Study (Short Courses)
Up to 6 months at an accredited UK institution.
How to Apply for a UK ETA
Follow these steps to complete your UK ETA application
Complete the Online Form
Fill in personal and travel details, passport information and contact details
Upload Required Documents
Upload a digital photo and a scan of your passport bio-data page
Pay the Application Fee
Pay the ETA fee online using a credit or debit card
Receive Your ETA
Most applications are processed within hours. You will receive your ETA approval by email
Required Documents
Prepare the following before starting your application
ETA Fee & Validity
Validity Period
The UK ETA is valid for 2 years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. It allows multiple entries with each stay of up to 6 months.
Note: The ETA fee is non-refundable, even if your application is denied or you choose not to travel.
Important Information
Your ETA is linked electronically to your passport. You do not need to print it, but save the confirmation email.
Apply at least 72 hours before your travel date.
The UK ETA is NOT valid for working in the UK. For employment you need a separate work visa.
Each traveler must have their own individual ETA, including children.
If you get a new passport, you will need to apply for a new ETA.
Our UK ETA Assistance Service
While you can apply directly on the official UK government website, we offer professional assistance for travelers who prefer support in their own language.
Our UK ETA Assistance Service Includes:
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a UK ETA?
Most UK ETA applications are processed within hours. In some cases, it may take up to 3 working days. We recommend applying at least 72 hours before your travel date.
Can I work in the UK with an ETA?
No. The UK ETA is only valid for tourism, business meetings, short-term study, and transit. You cannot take up employment in the UK on an ETA.
Do I need to print my UK ETA?
No. Your ETA is linked electronically to your passport. However, we recommend saving the approval email as airlines may ask for confirmation at boarding.
Can I extend my stay in the UK on an ETA?
You cannot extend your stay beyond 6 months on an ETA. If you wish to stay longer, you will need to apply for a different visa type.
What if my UK ETA application is rejected?
If rejected, you will be notified by email. You may reapply with corrected information or apply for a full UK visa at a visa application centre.
Is the UK ETA the same as a visa?
No. The ETA is a simpler, faster pre-travel authorization for eligible nationalities. A full UK visa requires a more extensive application process.
Disclaimer: This is a private third-party service not affiliated with or endorsed by UK Visas and Immigration or any UK government agency. For official ETA applications, visit gov.uk/apply-for-an-eta