UK Electronic
About
What is the Electronic
Travel Authorisation?
The United Kingdom Electronic Travel Authorization (UK ETA) is a pre-travel requirement for citizens of countries that do not require a visa for short stays in the UK.
Phase 1 launched in November 2023 for Qatari nationals, followed by phase 2 for GCC country nationals in February 2024. Phases 3 and 4 will see non-EU citizens eligible to apply from November 2024 and EU citizens from April 2025.
This is part of the UK’s efforts to enhance border security and streamline the entry process. Travelers that can travel to the UK visa-free for short stays must obtain the ETA online.
Once approved, the UK ETA grants permission to travel to the UK and is linked electronically to the traveler’s passport.
It allows for multiple entries over a specified period and supports stays of up to six months for tourism, business, study, or medical treatment.
The introduction of the UK ETA aims to balance the facilitation of legitimate travel with robust security measures, creating a safer and more efficient system for both travelers and the UK government.
Benefits
Benefits of the UK ETA
Multiple Entries
Once granted, the UK ETA allows for multiple entries over its validity period, providing flexibility for frequent travelers.
Simplified Application Process
The UK ETA offers a straightforward and convenient online application process, allowing travelers to apply from the comfort of their own homes. This eliminates the need for in-person visits to embassies or consulates.
Quick Approval Times
With most applications approved within 3 working days, the UK ETA reduces waiting times and helps travelers finalize their plans without lengthy delays.
Enhanced Security
For the UK, the ETA system enhances border security by pre-screening travelers and identifying potential risks before they arrive, contributing to a safer and more secure entry process.
Streamlined Border Control
By processing travel authorizations in advance, the UK ETA helps streamline border control procedures, reducing congestion and wait times at entry points for all travelers.
Eligibility
Who Needs a UK ETA?
Eligible Citizens
The UK ETA is required for citizens of countries that do not need a visa for short stays in the United Kingdom. This currently includes travelers from GCC countries and numerous non-EU countries around the world. By April 2025, the ETA will be required from citizens of all countries that can travel to the UK without a visa. Travelers must obtain a UK ETA before their journey for purposes such as tourism, business, short-term study, or medical treatment. The ETA is mandatory regardless of age and must be obtained in advance.
Exemptions
Certain individuals are exempt from needing a UK ETA. This includes British and Irish citizens, UK residents with a valid residence permit, and travelers who have a valid UK entry visa. If your country is not eligible under the ETA, you will need to apply for a visa to enter the UK.
Requirements
Required Documents
for UK ETA Application
Ensuring all these required documents are prepared and available before starting the application process will help facilitate a smooth and successful UK ETA application.
Valid Passport
A valid passport issued by an eligible country is required. The passport must be valid for the duration of the intended stay in the UK.
Digital Photo
Applicants must provide a digital photo that meets the UK ETA system’s specifications. This photo will be used for identification purposes and must adhere to specific size, format, and quality requirements.
Email Address
An email address is required for communication purposes. All correspondence related to the UK ETA application, including confirmation and updates, will be sent to this email address.
Application process
UK ETA Application Process
The first step in the UK ETA application process is to complete an online application form. Applicants must upload a copy of their passport and a digital photo that meets the specified requirements. They are also required to provide personal information, such as their residential address, phone numbers, and answers to a few security-related questions.
After completing the online application form, applicants are required to pay the application fee using a bank card. The fee must be paid online as part of the application process. Once the payment is successfully processed, applicants will receive a confirmation of payment.
Once the application is submitted, processing begins, which typically involves verifying the provided information and conducting security checks. If approved, applicants will be notified of their UK ETA via email. The UK ETA will be electronically linked to the traveler’s passport, eliminating the need for a physical document.
Details
UK ETA Processing Time, Fees,
Validity & Duration of Stay
UK ETA Processing Time
The processing time for a UK ETA application is typically quick, with many applications being approved within 3 working days of submission. However, processing times may vary depending on the volume of applications and other factors. It’s advisable to apply for a UK ETA well in advance of your planned travel dates to allow for any unexpected delays in processing.
UK ETA Fees
The standard application fee for a UK ETA is £10 per traveler. Applicants must pay this fee online using a bank card as part of the application process. It’s important to note that the application fee is non-refundable, regardless of whether the application is approved or not.
UK ETA Validity Period
The UK ETA is typically valid for multiple entries over a specified period, up to two years from the date of approval or until the expiration date of the passport linked to the ETA, whichever comes first. It’s important to note that the validity period of the UK ETA begins on the date of approval, not on the date of entry into the UK.
UK ETA Duration of Stay
With a valid UK ETA, travelers are generally allowed to stay in the UK for up to six months per visit. This duration is applicable for purposes such as tourism, business, short-term study, or medical treatment. However, the actual duration of stay granted at the port of entry is at the discretion of the UK Border Force officers. It’s essential for travelers to adhere to the specified duration of stay and exit the UK before the expiration of their authorized period of stay to avoid any immigration issues.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
The UK ETA does not permit extensions, and you cannot stay beyond the allowed duration per visit, which is typically up to six months. If you wish to stay longer, you would need to apply for an appropriate visa type.
Yes, each individual, including children, requires their own UK ETA. Parents or guardians can apply on behalf of their children using the child’s passport details.
If you make a mistake when applying for a UK ETA or have renewed the passport submitted in the application, you must reapply with the correct details.
No, the UK ETA is primarily for tourism, business, short-term study, or medical treatment purposes. It does not grant authorization to work in the UK. If you intend to work in the UK, you may need to apply for a work visa or other appropriate authorization.
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