What Is the UK ETA?
To clarify, the UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) is a digital permit and not a visa. In particular, it pre-approves visa-exempt travelers before they travel to the UK and links to their passport. But having an ETA does not guarantee border control. Similarly, it operates like the U.S. ESTA or EU’s ETIAS.
An ETA’s validity spans two years or until your passport ends. In addition, ETA holders can visit the UK multiple times — each visit up to six months.
Who Needs an ETA
Overall, all visitors from visa‑exempt countries need an ETA. This includes travelers from the US, Canada, Germany, France, Malaysia, as well as from Europe.
Exemptions include British and Irish citizens, visa holders or residents, in‑transit travelers who don’t pass border control, and school‑trip children.
How to Apply for the ETA
In summary, the ETA application is simple and entirely online. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Visit the EVS platform. Notably, it simplifies the ETA application process so you can avoid 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.
Step 2: Upload a passport photo. It must have a plain, light-colored background without any shadows or objects behind you.
Step 3: Upload a scan or photo of your passport information page. Ensure the full passport photo page is inside the frame, including the two lines of numbers and letters at the bottom. Additionally, the passport must be valid for at least six months upon entering and exiting the UK.
Step 4: Provide your personal information:
- Contact details
- Home address
- Employment information
- Citizenship information
- Criminal history, if any
Overall, make sure that the information you provide matches what is on your passport.
Step 5: Review and confirm the information on your application. In particular, you can pay using suitable electronic payment methods such as Apple Pay, Google Pay, credit card, or debit card.
Step 6: Pay the application fee.
Step 7: Receive your UK ETA. Next, you will receive an email with the decision. The authorization will be linked to your passport digitally.
Once approved, the ETA is valid for multiple visits over a two-year period, or until your passport expires. Because mistakes can delay approval, make sure to triple-check all entries before you submit.
Ready to get started with your application? Then click the button below to obtain your ETA.
How Much Does the ETA Cost?
The government fee started at £10 per person and rose to £16 on April 9, 2025. To clarify, it covers all travelers—even babies and children.
In particular, applicants can pay via card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay. But the fee is non‑refundable, even if authorities deny the ETA.
When to Apply
Overall, apply at least a few days before departure and don’t wait, as last‑minute rushes risk delays. Generally, authorities automatically approve the ETA within hours, although manual review may add time.
ETA Across Countries
The rule applies equally to travelers from Germany, France, Malaysia—or any visa‑exempt nation. Hence, there’s no special cost or process for individual countries, as it’s a unified requirement.
Best Practices & Common Pitfalls
- Apply early. Don’t risk delays.
- Keep the passport used to apply, as the ETA links to it.
- ETA does not guarantee entry. Border officers still make final decisions.
- Need to change your passport? Then apply for the authorization again.
Conclusion
Overall, the UK ETA is a game-changer for international travelers as it brings a new layer of digital security. As such, whether you’re traveling to the UK for leisure or transiting through Heathrow, it’s essential to understand the authorization’s rules.
Hence, plan ahead and apply early. More importantly, ensure your travel plans abide by this new system.
For fast, reliable, and professional UK ETA processing, visit EVS.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if authorities deny my ETA application?
If authorities deny your application, then you’ll receive an email with reasons. Hence, contact EVS before reapplying.
Can I appeal if my ETA is denied?
Generally, there’s no formal appeal, but Australian passport holders can apply for a visa instead. Correspondingly, this allows for a more detailed review.
Can I enter the UK without an ETA?
No, you cannot, if you are eligible for it. Correspondingly, Emirates may deny you boarding or authorities may refuse you entry at the UK border.
Which countries are eligible for the travel authorization?
In particular, business travelers from the following countries can 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
- Tuvalu
- United Arab Emirates
- United States
- Uruguay
Meanwhile, applications have opened for European travelers visiting 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
In addition, this also covers eligible dual citizenships.
Are there non-EU European countries that need a UK ETA?
Yes. Specifically, these include Andorra, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Monaco, Norway, San Marino, Switzerland, and the Vatican City.
Do I need an ETA if I’m transiting?
Earlier, in January 2025, the UK temporarily suspended the requirement for transit passengers.
Hence, if you’re transiting without entering the UK, then you don’t need the authorization. Specifically, this applies if you stay in the international transit zone. If you pass through UK border control for any reason, even briefly, then the authorization becomes mandatory.
Can I work in the UK with an ETA?
No. An ETA allows tourism, short business, or transit only—not employment.
What’s the difference between a UK ETA and a visa?
An ETA is for visa-exempt travelers. Overall, it’s faster, cheaper, and entirely online. Meanwhile, a visa involves a more detailed application and consular process.
Can I use a UK ETA for multiple business trips?
Yes, as long as it remains valid. However, frequent visits may attract extra questioning at the border.
How long can business travelers stay in the UK?
In particular, a UK ETA allows short visits of up to six months. However, repeated entries might raise concerns with border officials.
Specifically, travelers cannot extend their stay or switch to another visa while in the UK. Furthermore, overstaying can lead to future travel restrictions.
Can I bring family members on my ETA?
Family members must apply for their own travel authorization if they’re from an eligible country.
What if my flight is delayed and I have to leave the airport?
To clarify, you’ll need an ETA to enter the UK, even due to delays or rebooking.
Photo by Ming Jun Tan on Unsplash
