Question 1

What is UK ETA?

Accepted Answer

UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) is a digital travel permit required for visa-exempt nationals visiting the UK. It's a pre-travel authorization linked to your passport that allows you to visit the UK for tourism, business, study (short-term), or transit purposes for stays up to 6 months. The ETA is valid for 2 years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.

Question 2

Who needs UK ETA?

Accepted Answer

Citizens from eligible visa-exempt countries need UK ETA. This currently includes nationals from Australia, USA, Canada, New Zealand, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, Brunei, and several GCC countries (UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman) among others. UK and Irish citizens do NOT need ETA.

Question 3

Is UK ETA the same as a visa?

Accepted Answer

No, UK ETA is not a visa. It's a pre-travel authorization for visa-exempt nationals. A visa involves a more detailed application process and is required for nationals of countries that don't have visa-free access to the UK. ETA is simpler, faster, and designed for citizens of countries that traditionally enjoyed visa-free travel to the UK.

Question 4

When did UK ETA become mandatory?

Accepted Answer

The UK ETA scheme was introduced in phases starting from 2024. It became mandatory for most visa-exempt nationalities in 2025. The phased rollout meant different countries were included at different times, with full implementation covering all eligible nationals by early 2025.

Question 5

Do children need UK ETA?

Accepted Answer

Yes, all travelers regardless of age require their own UK ETA, including infants and children. Each person must have a separate ETA application linked to their individual passport. Parents or guardians can apply on behalf of minors.

Question 6

How do I apply for UK ETA?

Accepted Answer

You can apply for UK ETA online through our application portal. The process involves filling out a form with your personal details, passport information, and travel plans. You'll need to upload a passport photo and supporting documents, answer security questions, and pay the processing fee. The entire process takes about 10-15 minutes.

Question 7

What documents do I need to apply?

Accepted Answer

You need: 1) A valid passport from an eligible country (valid for your entire UK stay), 2) A recent digital passport photo meeting UK specifications, 3) A valid email address for correspondence, 4) Payment method (credit/debit card), 5) Travel details (planned dates, UK address if known). You may also need employment or financial information depending on your circumstances.

Question 8

Can I apply on behalf of someone else?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can apply on behalf of family members, including children, elderly relatives, or anyone who has authorized you to do so. You'll need all their required documents and information. Parents commonly apply for their children's ETAs alongside their own.

Question 9

When should I apply for UK ETA?

Accepted Answer

We recommend applying at least 1-2 weeks before your planned travel date, though most applications are processed within 72 hours (or 24-48 hours with express service). You can apply up to 3 months before your travel date. Don't wait until the last minute as processing times can vary.

Question 10

Can I apply if I'm already in the UK?

Accepted Answer

No, you must apply for UK ETA before traveling to the UK. Applications must be submitted and approved before you depart for the UK. If you're already in the UK on a different authorization or visa, you cannot apply for ETA while in the country.

Question 11

What if I make a mistake on my application?

Accepted Answer

Review carefully before submitting as you cannot edit an application once submitted. Minor errors might be overlooked, but significant mistakes (especially passport details) could lead to refusal. If you realize you made an error after submission, contact support immediately. You may need to submit a new application with correct information.

Question 12

Do I need to print my UK ETA?

Accepted Answer

No, UK ETA is electronically linked to your passport. However, it's recommended to keep a digital or printed copy of your approval for your records and to show to airlines if requested. Border officials will see your ETA status when they scan your passport.

Question 13

How long does UK ETA processing take?

Accepted Answer

Standard processing takes up to 3 business days (72 hours) from submission. Express processing is available for an additional fee and typically delivers results within 24-48 hours. Most applications are actually decided much faster, often within 24 hours even with standard processing.

Question 14

What's the difference between Regular and Express processing?

Accepted Answer

Regular processing (USD $75) takes up to 3 business days. Express processing (USD $120) prioritizes your application for faster review, typically within 24-48 hours. Express is recommended if you're traveling soon or need certainty about your travel authorization quickly. Both have the same approval standards.

Question 15

How will I know if my ETA is approved?

Accepted Answer

You'll receive an email notification at the address you provided. The email will confirm approval and provide your ETA reference number. You can also check your application status using your reference number. The ETA is electronically linked to your passport, so you don't receive a physical document.

Question 16

What if my UK ETA is refused?

Accepted Answer

If your ETA is refused, you'll be notified via email with the reason for refusal. Common reasons include: providing incorrect information, previous UK immigration violations, criminal convictions, or concerns about your travel intentions. If refused, you may be able to reapply after addressing the issues, or you might need to apply for a UK visa instead.

Question 17

Can I track my application status?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can track your application using the reference number provided when you submitted your application. You'll receive email updates at key stages: application received, under review, and final decision. Check your spam folder if you don't see updates.

Question 18

What happens if I don't receive a decision in time?

Accepted Answer

If you haven't received a decision by your travel date, contact support immediately with your reference number. In urgent cases, you may need to consider postponing travel until your ETA is resolved, as airlines may not allow boarding without valid ETA. This is why we recommend applying well in advance.

Question 19

How much does UK ETA cost?

Accepted Answer

UK ETA costs USD $75 for regular processing (3 business days) or USD $120 for express processing (24-48 hours). This is a one-time fee for a 2-year authorization. There are no hidden fees or additional charges. Payment is made securely online during the application process.

Question 20

What payment methods do you accept?

Accepted Answer

We accept major credit and debit cards including Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover. Payments are processed securely through encrypted payment gateways. You'll receive a receipt via email after successful payment.

Question 21

Is the fee refundable if my application is refused?

Accepted Answer

No, the processing fee is non-refundable regardless of the application outcome. The fee covers the cost of reviewing and processing your application, which occurs whether the result is approval or refusal. Only submit an application if you're confident you meet all eligibility requirements.

Question 22

Do I need to pay again if I reapply?

Accepted Answer

Yes, each new application requires a new payment. If your application is refused or you made errors requiring resubmission, you'll need to pay the full fee again. This is why we recommend reviewing your application carefully before submission.

Question 23

Are there discounts for families or groups?

Accepted Answer

Currently, each individual requires a separate application and payment at the standard rate. There are no family or group discounts. However, the 2-year validity and multiple entry allowance mean you only pay once for multiple trips over that period.

Question 24

How long is UK ETA valid?

Accepted Answer

UK ETA is valid for 2 years from the date of approval OR until your passport expires, whichever comes first. During this period, you can make multiple trips to the UK. If you renew your passport, you'll need to apply for a new ETA as it's linked to your passport number.

Question 25

How long can I stay in the UK with an ETA?

Accepted Answer

You can stay in the UK for up to 6 months per visit. UK ETA allows multiple entries during its 2-year validity, but each individual stay is limited to 6 months. You must leave the UK before the 6-month period ends. For longer stays, you need a visa.

Question 26

Can I use my UK ETA for multiple trips?

Accepted Answer

Yes! UK ETA allows unlimited entries to the UK during its 2-year validity period. You can visit as many times as you want, with each stay lasting up to 6 months. You don't need to reapply unless your ETA expires or your passport is renewed.

Question 27

What if my passport expires before my ETA?

Accepted Answer

Your ETA becomes invalid when your passport expires, even if the ETA's 2-year period hasn't ended. When you renew your passport, you'll need to apply for a new ETA using your new passport number. Plan ahead if your passport is close to expiration.

Question 28

Can I work in the UK with an ETA?

Accepted Answer

No, UK ETA does not authorize you to work in the UK. It's strictly for tourism, business visits (meetings, conferences), short-term study (up to 6 months), visiting family and friends, or medical treatment. If you want to work in the UK, you must apply for a work visa through the appropriate visa category.

Question 29

Can I study in the UK with an ETA?

Accepted Answer

You can undertake short-term study (courses up to 6 months) with UK ETA. This includes language courses, professional training, or recreational courses. For degree programs or courses longer than 6 months, you need a Student visa. Check that your study plans fall within ETA limitations.

Question 30

Does UK ETA cover travel to Ireland?

Accepted Answer

No, UK ETA is only valid for entry to the United Kingdom (England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland). It does NOT cover travel to the Republic of Ireland, which is a separate country. If you plan to visit Ireland, check their visa requirements separately.

Question 31

When do I need to have my UK ETA?

Accepted Answer

You must have an approved UK ETA before you board your flight, train, or ferry to the UK. Airlines and transport operators will check your ETA status before allowing you to board. Border officials will also verify your ETA upon arrival. Don't travel without an approved ETA.

Question 32

Do I need to show my ETA at the airport?

Accepted Answer

Your airline will check that you have a valid ETA before boarding. At UK border control, officials will see your ETA status when they scan your passport (it's electronically linked). However, it's wise to keep a copy (digital or printed) of your approval confirmation just in case.

Question 33

What if I'm just transiting through the UK?

Accepted Answer

If you're transiting through the UK (changing flights without entering the UK), you may still need UK ETA depending on your nationality and whether you're passing through UK border control. Check requirements for your specific situation. Some nationalities in airside transit don't need ETA.

Question 34

Can I enter the UK by land from Ireland?

Accepted Answer

There is a Common Travel Area (CTA) between the UK and Ireland, but ETA requirements still apply to non-CTA nationals entering the UK, regardless of whether you arrive by air, sea, or land. If you're arriving from Ireland to the UK, you need valid UK ETA if you're from an eligible country.

Question 35

What happens if I arrive without an approved ETA?

Accepted Answer

You will be denied boarding by your airline/transport operator if you don't have valid ETA. If somehow you reach UK border control without valid ETA, you will be refused entry and sent back. Never attempt to travel to the UK without an approved ETA if you require one.

Question 36

Do I need travel insurance with UK ETA?

Accepted Answer

Travel insurance is not required to obtain UK ETA, but it's strongly recommended. Travel insurance protects you against medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and other unexpected events. The UK has excellent healthcare, but medical treatment for visitors can be expensive without insurance.

Question 37

Can I extend my UK ETA stay beyond 6 months?

Accepted Answer

No, you cannot extend a stay made under UK ETA. The 6-month limit is strict. If you want to stay longer, you must leave the UK and apply for an appropriate visa category from outside the UK. Overstaying can result in future entry bans and visa refusals.

Your UK ETA Questions Answered

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Payment & Costs

Validity & Usage

Travel & Border Control

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Complete Guide to UK ETA FAQs

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