The UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a new travel requirement for certain travelers. Announced in March 2023, this scheme allows the UK government to carry out security checks on visitors and those transiting through the UK before they arrive. Similar to the US ESTA, the UK ETA ensures that only authorized travelers can enter the country.
If you're a national of certain countries and plan to visit the UK for tourism, business, or short-term study (up to 6 months), or even transit through the UK, you’ll need to apply for an ETA. This applies to people who don’t need a visa for short stays and don't already have UK immigration status.
Countries Requiring an ETA:
You don’t need an ETA if you:
Applying for the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation is simple. Follow these steps:
Your ETA will be linked to your passport and valid for 2 years or until your passport expires.
The ETA is part of the UK government’s effort to strengthen border security and ensure that all travelers are authorized to enter. The application process allows the government to perform security checks before travelers even reach the UK, making entry smoother and safer.
If your application is refused, you may need to apply for a standard UK visa (e.g., visitor or transit visa) to enter the UK. For those who applied under the Creative Worker visa concession, a Temporary Work – Creative Worker visa will be required instead.
Once approved, your ETA is valid for two years (or until your passport expires). This means you don’t need to apply for a new ETA each time you travel to the UK within that period.
The UK ETA is a straightforward, cost-effective way to ensure you’re authorized to travel to the UK. It’s part of a broader effort to enhance UK border security and streamline the entry process. If you're planning to visit or transit through the UK, make sure to apply for your Electronic Travel Authorisation in advance.
For more details and to apply, visit the official UK government website.
Apply for an electronic travel authorisation (ETA): https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apply-for-an-electronic-travel-authorisation-eta
If you're a non-visa national planning to visit the UK for tourism, business, short-term study (up to 6 months), or transiting through the UK, you will likely need to apply for an ETA. Nationals of several countries, such as Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, are already required to apply. In January 2025, 48 non-European countries will also be included. Exemptions include British citizens, Irish citizens, and those with a valid UK visa or immigration status.
You can easily apply for a UK ETA through the official UK ETA app or online. The application process involves scanning your passport, answering a few basic questions, and paying a fee of £10 per person. You should receive your approval within 3 working days, and the ETA will be valid for 2 years or until your passport expires.
The UK ETA is valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. This means you don’t need to reapply for an ETA each time you visit the UK within this period, as long as you're using the same passport.
We are Regulated at the highest level (level-3) by the OISC and have over 10 years experience
We are clear, honest & professional and that is our transparent strategy for maintaining a very high visa success rate
Our lawyers offer Saturday/Late evening appointments to suit busy entrepreneurs & working professionals
We are one of the best immigration lawyers in London, success stories in our customer reviews speak for themselves
The UK Home Office has reported significant progress in immigration enforcement activities between 5 July and 7 December 2024
Read MoreHome Office extends bereavement scheme to NHS support staff and social care workers
Read MoreThe UK Home Office has reported significant progress in immigration enforcement activities between 5 July and 7 December 2024
Read MoreHome Office extends bereavement scheme to NHS support staff and social care workers
Read More
.jpg)
