What Is the UK ETA, and How Will It Impact Your Travel?
Are you planning a trip to the UK? Before booking your flight, ensure you are aware of the new entry requirements that came into effect on April 2, 2025.
Travelers from visa-exempt countries – those whose citizens usually don’t need a visa for short stays – will need to apply for a new Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before entering the UK. This applies to all short visits of up to six months, whether you’re heading there for tourism, business, or simply passing through.
Without the ETA, travelers will not be allowed to board their flight to the UK. To ensure your trip goes smoothly, read on to learn more about the UK ETA, who is required to have one, and how to apply in advance.
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The UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is a pre-screening travel authorization that requires travelers to apply for before entering the United Kingdom.
The ETA aims to enhance UK border security while ensuring a smooth and hassle-free entry process for visa-exempt travelers. It ensures that only those who meet the required criteria are allowed entry.
Importantly, the ETA is only for short stays of up to six months and does not permit long-term work or residency. So whether you’re planning a brief visit or a transit through the UK, you must apply for this ETA before your trip.
Fortunately, the UK ETA application process is quick and straightforward. Travelers can apply online and typically receive approval within minutes. Once approved, the ETA will be linked to your passport, eliminating the need for a lengthy visa process.
Citizens from visa-exempt countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, Japan, and most European Union countries, must apply for the UK ETA before entering the United Kingdom.
Below is a list of countries and territories whose citizens can currently apply for the UK 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
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*
Tonga
Tuvalu
United Arab Emirates
United States
Uruguay
*Note: You are eligible to apply for the UK ETA if you hold a Taiwanese passport that includes an identification card number issued by the competent authority in Taiwan.
You can check if you can get an ETA on the official UK Government website. If you’re unsure whether you need an ETA, it’s always a good idea to check the UK Government website or consult with your local embassy to confirm the current requirements before you travel.
Don’t Get Caught Out! If you’re traveling to the UK for tourism, business, or study (for up to six months), you must apply for the UK ETA before you can board your flight. Airlines will not allow you to fly to the UK without it, so be sure to get your ETA approved well in advance for a smooth journey.
Who Does NOT Need an ETA?
While most travelers from visa-exempt countries need to apply for the UK ETA, there are a few exceptions.
You do not need an ETA if:
You are a British or Irish citizen (or a dual citizen of the UK or Ireland traveling on a valid British or Irish passport)
You have a valid UK visa or permission to live, work, or study in the UK
You are exempt from immigration control (this could include certain diplomats, military personnel, etc.)
You are traveling on a diplomatic or official passport
You are traveling with a British Overseas Territories citizen passport or a British National (Overseas) passport
You are transiting through a UK airport without passing through border control (check with your airline if you’re unsure)
You are a child traveling on the ‘France-UK school trip travel information form.’
You live in Ireland and are traveling from Ireland, Guernsey, Jersey, or the Isle of Man
You are traveling to a British Overseas Territory (check specific requirements for these)
The UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is typically valid for two years, or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. This means that if your passport has less than two years of validity remaining, the ETA will expire concurrently with your passport.
If needed, you can renew your UK ETA once it expires, provided you continue to meet the eligibility requirements.
The ETA allows multiple visits to the UK within this validity period for stays of up to six months at a time. However, each visit is subject to meeting the entry requirements and approval by UK immigration officials upon arrival.
How to Apply for the UK ETA
Fortunately, the UK ETA application process is straightforward and efficient for those who need to apply.
Travelers can apply online or through the UK ETA app, which is available for download from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
If you prefer not to use the app, you can follow these easy steps to apply online:
Fill Out the Application Form: You will need to provide basic personal information, including:
Passport details (passport number, issue and expiry dates)
Travel plans (dates and purpose of your visit, such as tourism, business, or transit
Security questions (related to your health, criminal record, and other background checks)
Submit Your Application: After filling in your details, apply. The process is typically fast, and you will usually receive approval within minutes. That said, it’s best to use at least a few days before your trip to allow for any potential delays.
Pay the Application Fee:As of April 9, 2025, the fee for the UK ETA is £16 (approximately $20, depending on the exchange rate at the time). You will need to pay for it via credit or debit card before submitting your application.
Receive Your ETA: Once approved, your UK ETA will be electronically linked to your passport. Your approval will be stored digitally, so you don’t need to print anything. That said, it’s a good idea to keep a copy of the confirmation for your records.
Use the Official Site! Ensure you apply for the ETA on the official UK ETA Website and avoid third-party services that may charge additional fees. Also, check that all your information is accurate to avoid delays or issues at immigration.
How Long Does it Take to Get an ETA for the UK?
The UK ETA application process typically takes about 10 minutes to complete. Most applications are processed within 48 to 72 hours, but in many cases, you’ll receive approval within minutes. The UK ETA system is designed to be quick and efficient, so it’s generally faster than traditional visa applications.
However, to be safe, it’s always best to apply at least a few days before your trip in case of any unforeseen delays or complications. If you prefer, you can apply for the UK ETA well in advance – even several months before your trip.
Protect Your UK Trip: Don’t Overlook Travel Insurance!
As you prepare for your trip to the UK, remember that applying for the ETA is just one crucial step. Once your flight is booked, consider purchasing travel insurance to safeguard your journey.
The right coverage offers peace of mind by protecting you against various situations, including trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and lost luggage.
If you’re an EU resident with a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), you can access certain healthcare services in the UK on the same terms as a UK resident. However, the EHIC does not cover all healthcare needs, such as private healthcare or non-emergency treatments.
For complete protection, it’s essential to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers unexpected medical expenses, repatriation, and any additional needs that may arise during your trip. This ensures you’re fully covered, especially in emergencies.
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Given that the UK’s healthcare system may differ from what you’re used to, having the right medical coverage is particularly important. Additionally, travel disruptions, such as flight delays or cancellations, are common, and insurance can help mitigate their impact.
Be sure to compare travel insurance plans and choose a policy that aligns with your specific needs and travel plans. If you plan to explore multiple cities or regions within the UK, consider a policy that covers travel delays and cancellations, as well as protects your belongings.
To help you make an informed choice, check out our detailed article on Travel Insurance for the UK, where we break down coverage options and provide tips on finding the best plan for your trip. Safe travels and enjoy your time in the UK!
Sophie Pettit is Head of Content at ICI and brings extensive experience in content strategy and management within the expat and travel space. She has led major websites across Europe and Southeast Asia and creates content that inspires readers to explore with confidence.
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