Planning a trip to London or the UK? Some travellers will now need to apply for a new type of visa called an ETA before arrival. Here is everything you need to know about the UK ETA; who needs it and how to apply.
What is the UK ETA?
The ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) is a new entry requirement for travellers visiting the United Kingdon who do not currently need a full visa. Similar to the United States’ ESTA or Canada’s eTA, the UK ETA lets you enter the UK as a tourist, for business purposes, for transits or even short stays. It was introduced in 2024 and came fully into effect in early 2025.
Who needs an ETA to visit London?
You will need to apply for a UK ETA if you are visiting the UK for up to six months as a tourist, business purposes, study or medical treatment. You do not need to apply if you are just transiting through a UK airport and will not go through border control. I would check with your airline if you are not sure. If you are picking up checked luggage before your next flight then you will go through Border Control and will need an ETA.
If you already need a standard visa to enter the UK, this does not apply to you and should continue with your standard visa application. The benefits of being to apply for an ETA is that it is much cheaper and much quicker. As of April 2025, the UK ETA costs £16 per person.
Read more: Check if your country is on the ETA list
How to apply for a UK ETA
You can apply in two different ways; website and app. The app is much quicker and easier but both work in the same way. You must be careful of scam websites and apps. There are so many out there charging you much more than you need. The official price as of April 2025 is £16 only. The process can take up to three working days but apply in plenty of time for your trip just in case. Once approved, the ETA is digitally linked to your passport and is valid for two years or until your passport expires.
You will need:
- email address
- valid passport
- digital photo of yourself
- credit or debit card to pay the £16 fee.
The official website:
The official UK ETA App:
Do not be scammed! This is the official app to apply for the ETA.
FAQs
- Is the UK ETA a visa?
No it is a digital travel authorisation for those who don’t need a visa. Much cheaper and easier to obtain.
- Do children need an ETA?
Yes, every traveller, regardless of age, must have their own ETA.
- Can I work in the UK with an ETA?
No, you can only enter with a UK ETA as a tourist, business visit, study or to have medical treatment.
- What if I have dual nationality?
If you have a UK passport as a dual national, then you will not need a UK ETA. If you are a dual national of different countries, then you will need to obtain a UK ETA on the one passport you will use to enter and exit the UK.
