If you’re thinking of travelling to the UK there are some important new developments you need to be aware of. Many people will now need an authorisation – known as an ETA – before they travel. The ETA is a digital authorisation linked to an applicant’s current, valid passport, allowing travel to the UK for up to six months for a variety of purposes including tourism, business, or short-term study.
This development was first announced in March 2023 and we covered some of the basics in our blog last month. But here we’re going to get into much more detail about what it means for you, your family, and your trip to the UK.
So, this month I want to do a deep dive into ETAs and discuss everything you need to know about them, who needs one, who doesn’t need one, and how you get one. we will also take you step-by-step on how to apply for one.
Who needs an ETA to visit the UK?
As part of the UK government’s drive to digitise the immigration process to enhance border security, the requirement for an ETA (officially an ‘Electronic Travel Authorisation’) applies to non-visa nationals who do not have immigration permission and are planning to visit the UK.
Whether you need to obtain an ETA depends on the traveller’s nationality and the date of travel.
- Currently, the ETA is required for:
Gulf nationals: Nationals of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE are required to obtain an ETA. - All other non-European nationals: Nationals from non-European countries including the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and South Korea are also required to obtain an ETA.
- Nationals from the EU, EEA, and Switzerland will also need to apply for an ETA. Applications for these nationals will open on 5 March 2025 and will be used for travel from 2 April 2025 onwards.
Who does not need an ETA to visit the UK?
There are several categories of individuals who are exempt from the requirement to obtain an ETA when traveling to the UK:
- British or Irish citizens as well as British Overseas Territories citizens (including those with dual nationality).
- Visa holders who are required to submit a visitor visa application or seek other immigration permissions.
- Individuals with valid UK immigration permission such as those with indefinite leave to remain (ILR) in the UK.
- Individuals legally resident in Ireland who are traveling to the UK from Ireland, or from other locations within the Common Travel Area, such as Guernsey, Jersey, or the Isle of Man.
- Individuals exempt from immigration control as defined by UK immigration laws.
Note: The UK government has agreed to a temporary ETA exemption for passengers who are transiting through the UK airside (meaning they do not pass through UK border control). However, passengers who cross through the UK border – rather than staying airside – will still be required to obtain an ETA if it is necessary for their nationality.
How to avoid mistakes when applying for an ETA to visit the UK
When applying for an ETA to travel to the UK, it is essential to keep the following points in mind:
ETAs are not visas nor are they immigration permission and so they do not guarantee entry to the UK. Border officials have the final authority to decide whether to grant entry upon arrival.
- Each traveller, including children and infants, must have their own individual ETA. A single ETA cannot cover multiple passengers, regardless of age.
- ETA holders who obtain a new passport will need to apply for a new ETA. The ETA is linked to the passport, so a change of passport renders the old ETA invalid.
- Travellers with multiple nationalities should ensure they use the passport that is linked to their ETA when traveling to the UK. This is crucial to ensure that the border control process runs smoothly.
- Individuals travelling to the UK for non-visitor reasons, such as to live or work in the UK, should not rely on an ETA. Instead, they must apply for the appropriate UK immigration permission under the relevant visa or immigration route.
How do I apply for an ETA to visit the UK?
To apply for an ETA for the UK, applicants can choose between using the UK ETA app or filling out an online form. The app is the fastest method for submitting an application.
- The requirements for the ETA application are as follows:
Valid passport (the same passport that will be used for travel to the UK).
Recent digital photograph. Applicants can upload a photo or take one directly through the app.
Valid email address for communication and confirmation of the application status.
Credit or debit card to pay the £10 fee (which will increase to £16 later in 2025).
The ETA application process generally takes up to three working days though processing times may vary and could take longer in some cases. Once approved, the ETA is issued electronically, and the applicant will receive an email confirming that their application has been approved.
How to apply for an ETA – a step-by-step guide
- Step 1: Download the UK ETA app.
- Step 2: Take a photo of the passport you will be using when travelling to the UK.
- Step 3: Scan the biometric chip in your passport. You will hear a beep once your passport has been recognised.
- Step 4: Scan your face using the camera on your phone.
- Step 5: Take a picture of yourself in even lighting against a plain, light-coloured background.
- Step 6: Answer a series of questions about your address, job, criminal history, and other nationalities you hold.
- Step 7: Pay the application fee and receive confirmation of submission.
How long does an ETA last?
The ETA is granted for a period of 2 years from the date of approval or until the expiry of the passport used in the ETA application, whichever comes first.
A valid ETA allows multiple journeys to the UK to enter as:
- A visitor seeking entry for up to six months
- A creative worker coming for no more than three months
What happens if my ETA to visit the UK is refused?
It is important to note that if an ETA is refused, there is no right to administrative review or appeal. In such cases, individuals would need to submit a full immigration application.
ETAs: A new era in UK immigration
The ETA system offers a more efficient and secure way to manage travel to the UK, benefiting both authorities and travellers. While it simplifies the process for many, it is crucial for applicants to understand the specific requirements and limitations of the ETA, such as its validity, application procedure, and restrictions on the use of multiple passports. As the ETA becomes mandatory for more nationalities in the coming years, it is important to stay informed about updates to the process and ensure compliance to avoid travel disruptions.
Getting the right immigration advice
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