UK ETA
UK ETA World
UK Visa vs ETA
The UK Electronic Travel Authorization (UK ETA) is not a visa but a streamlined entry clearance for travelers from visa-exempt countries. Unlike the traditional UK visitor visa, which involves a more comprehensive application process with potential offline steps, the ETA simplifies travel with an entirely online procedure.
Key differences include validity and cost. The UK ETA is valid for up to two years or until the associated passport expires, allowing multiple entries with each stay capped at six months. In contrast, the standard visitor visa offers varying validity periods depending on the visa type and often comes with higher costs. The ETA provides a more convenient and affordable option for eligible travelers.
Who Needs the UK ETA
list of countries where travellers need to apply for a UK
UK ETA World
Applying for the UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is a quick and fully online process. Eligible travelers can complete their application in just a few steps:
Passport
Applicants must hold a valid passport issued by an eligible country. For optimal use of the UK ETA’s two-year validity, it is recommended that the passport remains valid for the entire duration.
Recent Photograph
A current, high-quality, portrait-style photograph of the applicant is required. The image should clearly show the upper body and adhere to official photo standards.
Payment Method
A valid payment method, such as a credit or debit card, or access to digital payment platforms like Apple Pay or Google Pay, is necessary to cover the UK ETA application fee.
Email Address
A valid email address is essential for receiving confirmation and updates, including the approved UK ETA.
ETA Validity and Stay Duration
VALIDITY PERIOD
2 YEARS
The UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) remains valid for up to two years from the date of issuance, enabling multiple entries during this time. However, the ETA is tied to the passport used during the application process. If the passport expires before the two-year validity, the ETA automatically becomes invalid. Travelers must ensure their passport is valid for the entire duration of their UK visit.
STAY DURATION
6 MONTHS
With a valid ETA, travelers can stay in the UK for up to 6 months for purposes such as tourism, visiting family, short-term study, or business engagements.
Creative Workers: Eligible for stays of up to 3 months under specific conditions.
Permitted Paid Engagements: Visitors can stay for up to 1 month when meeting the criteria for this pathway.
RENEWALS
NOT POSSIBLE
ETAs cannot be extended or renewed. If a traveler’s passport expires or is replaced, they must apply for a new ETA. Each application is processed independently, and previously issued ETAs cannot be transferred to a new passport or updated for continued use.
UK ETA Processing Time
The UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is typically processed within three (3) working days after submission. In some cases, decisions may be issued sooner. However, certain factors can extend the processing time.
Factors That May Affect Processing Time
To avoid delays, applicants are encouraged to double-check all information and submit accurate, complete applications. Processing times may vary, so it is recommended to apply well in advance of your intended travel date.
UK ETA Decision
After submitting the application, the decision on the UK ETA will be communicated to the applicant via email.
If the application is approved, the applicant will receive an email confirmation. The ETA is electronically linked to the passport used during the application process, eliminating the need to carry physical proof of the ETA when entering the UK. The authorization is valid for two years or until the associated passport expires, whichever comes first, and permits multiple entries with a maximum stay of up to six months per visit.
If the application is denied, the applicant will be notified by email with an explanation for the refusal. Common reasons for rejection include not meeting the eligibility criteria, providing incorrect or incomplete information, or security concerns. Applicants who are not granted a UK ETA may need to explore alternative options, such as applying for a standard UK visa, depending on the purpose and duration of their intended stay.
IMPORTANT DISCLOSURE
We are a private, third-party travel assistance company.
We are NOT affiliated with, endorsed by, or a representative of the UK Government, its embassies, or any official government agency.
FAQ
Who is eligible to apply for the UK ETA?
Nationals from the following countries can apply for the UK ETA :
Americas: Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, The Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Grenada, Guatemala, Guyana, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, Uruguay.
Asia-Pacific: Australia, Brunei, Hong Kong (including British National Overseas), Japan, Kiribati, Macao, Malaysia, Maldives, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Nauru, New Zealand, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Seychelles, Singapore, Solomon Islands, South Korea, Taiwan, Tonga, Tuvalu.
Africa: Botswana, Mauritius.
United States: Nationals of the United States.
Are there any exemptions from obtaining a UK ETA?
Yes, the following individuals are exempt from applying for a UK ETA:
British and Irish citizens.
Individuals with a valid UK visa or permission to live, work, or study in the UK.
Residents with settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme.
Travelers entering the UK from Ireland, provided they do not require a visa.
What can I do in the UK with an ETA?
A UK ETA allows entry for the following purposes:
- Tourism and holidays.
- Visiting family and friends.
- Business-related activities such as attending meetings or conferences.
- Short-term study for up to six months.
- Creative Worker concessions for up to three months.
- Permitted Paid Engagements for up to one month.
- Transit through the UK to another destination.
How long is the UK ETA valid?
The UK ETA is valid for two years from the date of issue or until the passport it is linked to expires, whichever comes first. It allows multiple entries into the UK, with stays of up to six months per visit for general purposes.
Do citizens of countries not listed here need a UK ETA?
At this time, citizens of countries not listed above are not eligible to apply for a UK ETA. They may need to apply for a standard UK visa depending on their travel purpose and duration. Additional countries may be added to the eligibility list in the future.
Is the UK ETA the same as an electronic visa (eVisa)?
No, the UK ETA is not an electronic visa. The ETA is a travel authorization for visa-exempt nationals, granting short-term entry for specified purposes. An eVisa is a digital visa that outlines a traveler’s immigration status and conditions for their stay in the UK.
Can I apply for a UK ETA if my passport is close to expiring?
It is recommended that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay. If your passport expires before the two-year validity of the ETA ends, the ETA will automatically become invalid, and you will need to reapply with a new passport.
What happens if my UK ETA application is denied?
If your application is denied, you will receive an email explaining the reasons for the refusal. Common reasons include failing to meet eligibility criteria, providing incorrect information, or security concerns. In such cases, you may need to apply for a standard UK visa depending on your travel purpose and duration.