Introduction
There’s been a big change in traveling to the UK. Amid the launch and rollout of the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), travelers need to follow certain rules. Many will find the online application process simple and easy. But for those who have a criminal record, things may get more complicated.
In this guide, we discuss how having a criminal history could impact your UK ETA application. We also tackle the different rules, exceptions, and what you can do. Read on so you can plan your UK trip with confidence.
The UK ETA Scheme
The UK ETA is a new travel requirement for visa-free visitors entering the UK.
Overall, it’s similar to the US ESTA or Canada’s eTA. Correspondingly, you’ll need one before boarding a flight to the UK. The ETA is linked electronically to your passport and is usually valid for multiple short visits.
In particular, the system aims to enhance border security while speeding up the travel process. As it gradually rolls out, it will reach full implementation soon. Specifically, citizens of select countries—including the US, Australia, and EU states—must apply before arrival.
Assessing a Criminal Record
When you apply for a UK ETA, you’ll be asked about your criminal history. Correspondingly, the UK checks your answers using automated systems and international data-sharing tools.
Specifically, these checks screen for serious risks, including criminal activity, terrorism, and immigration violations.
As such, your record may trigger extra review depending on the nature and severity of past offenses.
Not every record leads to rejection. However, it’s important to provide full disclosure.
Criminal Record & Eligibility
Not all criminal records are treated the same. For instance, the UK looks closely at the type, timing, and seriousness of your offense.
For example, minor convictions, such as traffic violations or petty theft, may not affect your ETA. However, more serious offenses—such as assault, drug trafficking, or fraud—will raise red flags.
Caseworkers help evaluate the suitability of ETA applicants. They must review them if they have “self-declared criminality and self-declared involvement [in] war crimes, terrorism or extremism.” Moreover, they can also reject them if they have provided adverse information as indicated in Home Office records.
Specifically, the UK pays special attention to custodial sentences over 12 months. This is because under UK law, some convictions are considered “spent” after a set period.
Overall, applications may also be rejected if the applicant has been:
- “Convicted of a criminal offence in the UK or overseas for which they have received a custodial sentence of 12 months or more”
- “Convicted of a criminal offence in the UK or overseas unless more than 12 months have passed since the date of conviction”
Although spent convictions may carry less weight, you should still declare them honestly.
To clarify, each case is reviewed individually. Moreover, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer.
Rules and Considerations
If you’ve received a prison sentence of more than 12 months, then authorities may refuse your application. Meanwhile, shorter sentences or non-custodial punishments (fines, community service) are less likely to cause problems.
Overall, the UK considers how long ago the offense happened and whether you’ve stayed out of trouble since. As such, evidence of rehabilitation and clean conduct for several years can help.
So if your offense happened a long time ago and you’ve since moved on, then you may still be eligible. As mentioned, authorities evaluate each application on a case-by-case basis.
While there is no formal appeal process for ETA refusals, other options do exist. Fortunately, you may still qualify for a standard UK visa, even if you don’t receive ETA approval.
During Application
The UK ETA application is fully digital and takes about 10–15 minutes to complete.
To apply for an ETA, visit the EVS platform. It simplifies the ETA application process so you can focus on preparing for your journey instead of going through complex visa processes.
At EVS, your personal and travel information remains safe and secure with its strict data protection regulations. Moreover, it provides you with expert guidance and seamless support to ensure a stress-free application journey.
What you’ll need:
- Passport,
- Personal details,
- Honest answers to security questions (including about your criminal history)
During the application, you’ll be asked: “Have you ever had a criminal conviction? Include convictions from any country.”
If you declare a criminal record, then the system will ask the following:
- “Have you been convicted of a crime in the last 12 months? Include convictions from any country.”
- “Have you ever had a prison sentence of more than 12 months?”
If you answer yes to any or both of these questions, then you will need to disclose details of the criminal conviction. Specifically, it will ask for the crime, in which country you were convicted, the date of conviction, and if you were sentenced to 12 months in prison.
You will also be asked if you’ve ever been involved in or suspected of war crimes, genocide, crimes against humanity, terrorism, or extremism.
Next, the system will flag your application for further review. Correspondingly, this review could take longer than the typical 24-hour ETA processing time. In some cases, authorities will refuse your application and advise you to apply for a visa instead.
Remember: You won’t be able to board a flight without a valid ETA or visa. As such, the key is applying early. Furthermore, don’t leave it to the last minute.
Ready to get started with your application? Visit the website today to obtain your ETA.
Applying With a Criminal Record
If you have a criminal record, then honesty is essential. It must be remembered that lying on your application is a serious offense and could lead to a ban.
Hence, gather documentation before you apply. This could be in the form of police records, court papers, or character references that may help later.
Meanwhile, if your case is complex, you may want to consult a UK immigration lawyer. They can guide you on ETA eligibility or recommend applying for a visa instead.
Overall, give yourself time. Apply weeks or even months before your trip.
More importantly, stay updated as the ETA system is new and developing.
Conclusion
Having a criminal record doesn’t automatically mean you can’t get a UK ETA. What matters is the nature of the offense, how long ago it happened, and how you present your case.
Hence, transparency and preparation are your best tools. If you’re not sure about eligibility, then legal advice can make a big difference. Even if the ETA is off-limits, a visa may still offer a path forward.
As such, plan ahead, stay informed, and don’t let uncertainty hold you back from traveling to the UK.
Experience efficient, reliable, and professional visa support with EVS. All set to apply? Visit the website today to obtain your ETA.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a UK ETA with a DUI?
Possibly. A single DUI without jail time may not result in rejection. Declare it honestly and apply early.
What if my conviction is more than 10 years old?
Older convictions, especially if spent under UK law, may carry less weight. Eligibility depends on the details.
Can I appeal if my ETA is denied?
There’s no formal appeal, but you can apply for a visa instead, which allows for more detailed review.
What if I don’t declare my record and they find out?
That’s a serious offense. It can result in refusal, future bans, or even deportation. Always be honest.
Will my record from another country show up?
It’s likely. The UK shares data with many countries. It’s best to assume they will see your history.
Can I get an ETA at the airport?
It is not advisable to obtain an ETA at the airport as you need to secure it prior to traveling. It is best to apply ahead of your trip as the processing may take several hours to a few days.
Is the UK ETA in effect now?
Yes, as of April 2025, Travelers from the following countries must already apply for an ETA:
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Argentina
- Australia
- The Bahamas
- Bahrain
- Barbados
- Belize
- Botswana
- Brazil
- Brunei
- Canada
- Chile
- Costa Rica
- Grenada
- Guatemala
- Guyana
- Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (including British National overseas)
- Israel
- Japan
- Kiribati
- Kuwait
- Macao Special Administrative Region
- Malaysia
- Maldives
- Marshall Islands
- Mauritius
- Mexico
- Federated States of Micronesia
- Nauru
- New Zealand
- Nicaragua
- Oman
- Palau
- Panama
- Papua New Guinea
- Paraguay
- Peru
- Qatar
- Samoa
- Saudi Arabia
- Seychelles
- Singapore
- Solomon Islands
- South Korea
- St. Kitts and Nevis
- St. Lucia
- St. Vincent and the Grenadines
- Taiwan
- Toga
- Trinidad and Tobago
- Tuvalu
- United Arab Emirates
- United States
- Uruguay
Meanwhile, applications opened for European travelers with trips to the UK on or after April 2, 2025:
- Andorra
- Austria
- Belgium
- Bulgaria
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Czechia
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Monaco
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania
- San Marino
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Vatican City
