Electronic Travel Authorisation

An ETA is a digital authorisation that grants individuals permission to travel to the UK. It is not a visa, but rather a pre-requisite for visa-exempt travellers. The authorisation is electronically linked to the traveller’s passport, enhancing security and border management while offering convenience to visitors.

The ETA is valid for two years or until the associated passport expires, whichever comes first. During this period, it allows multiple entries into the UK for stays of up to six months.

It is a criminal offence to knowingly arrive without an ETA if one is required. Anyone travelling without an ETA is likely to be denied boarding by their airline or may be refused entry at the border. 

Some groups are exempt:

• British and Irish passport holders
• travellers who already hold a UK visa

Check the full list of those who do not need an ETA.

The application process for the ETA is entirely digital. It currently costs £16 per applicant through the official UK ETA app or the GOV.UK website.

A decision will usually be received within 3 working days, but in practice this will likely be much quicker, but it could also occasionally take longer.