Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)
The UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a pre-travel permission introduced for nationals of countries that do not need a standard UK visa. From 2 April 2025, most visa-free travellers must hold a valid ETA before boarding a UK-bound flight or arriving at the border. It costs £10, is linked to your passport, and is valid for two years, covering multiple trips. It does not permit work or long-term study.
In This Article
- What is the UK ETA?
- Who needs a UK ETA?
- Who is exempt from the ETA?
- ETA vs visa vs EVW
- How to apply for a UK ETA
- ETA cost and validity
- What the ETA allows
- What the ETA does not allow
- Common mistakes to avoid
- Frequently asked questions
- Related terms
What is the UK ETA?
If you have travelled to the US, you have probably used ESTA. The UK's ETA works the same way: a quick online registration before you fly, linked to your passport, that pre-screens you against security and immigration records.
Before the ETA was introduced, nationals of certain countries could simply board a UK-bound flight and present their passport on arrival without any pre-registration. The ETA changes that. From 2 April 2025, those nationals must have a valid ETA linked to their passport before travelling to the UK. Airlines are required to check ETA status before allowing passengers to board.
An ETA is not a visa. It does not grant you a right to enter the UK. That decision is still made by a Border Force officer at the port of entry. The ETA is simply a pre-travel check that screens your details against security and immigration records before you depart.
Who Needs a UK ETA?
From 2 April 2025, nationals of the following groups need a UK ETA if they are travelling without a visa:
- Citizens of the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand
- Citizens of Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and several other Asia-Pacific countries
- Citizens of most European Union member states
- Citizens of several Latin American and other countries who are visa-exempt for the UK
The UK government publishes the full list of nationalities that require an ETA. The list is extensive — if your country does not require a UK visa but is not on the EVW list (which covers only six Gulf countries), you almost certainly need an ETA.
Who is Exempt from the ETA?
The following people do not need an ETA:
- British citizens (including British Overseas Territories citizens with right of abode)
- Irish citizens
- People who already hold a UK visa
- People who hold an eVisa or other valid UK immigration status
- Nationals of countries that still require a UK visa
- People travelling on a British National (Overseas) passport with an appropriate endorsement
- Nationals of the six Gulf Cooperation Council countries — they use the Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW) instead (pending transition to ETA)
If you already have valid UK leave (for example, a Skilled Worker visa), you do not need an ETA. Your existing visa covers your travel.
ETA vs Visa vs EVW
| Feature | ETA | EVW | UK Visa |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who it is for | Most visa-free nationalities | Six GCC nationalities | Those who require a visa |
| Cost | £10 | Free | Varies (from £115) |
| Validity | 2 years, multiple trips | Single trip | Specific to grant period |
| Linked to specific flight | No | Yes | No |
| Allows work | No | No | Depends on visa type |
| How to apply | UK ETA app or gov.uk | gov.uk | UKVI online portal |
| Guarantees entry | No | No | No |
How to Apply for a UK ETA
You can apply through the official UK ETA app (available on iOS and Android) or directly at gov.uk. The process requires:
- Your passport (the one you will travel with)
- A digital photo of your face
- Your email address
- Payment of £10
You will receive a decision by email, usually within minutes, though some applications may take up to three working days for further review. A decision of "authorised" means your ETA is active and linked to your passport. You do not receive a stamp, sticker, or physical document — the authorisation is stored electronically.
Apply before you book your travel, or at least well before your departure date. Do not leave it to the day of travel.
ETA Cost and Validity
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Application fee | £10 |
| Validity period | 2 years from grant date |
| Expiry trigger | Whichever comes first: 2 years, or passport expiry |
| Number of trips | Unlimited during validity |
| Maximum stay per trip | Up to 6 months |
If your passport expires before two years, your ETA expires with it. When you renew your passport, you need to apply for a new ETA linked to the new document.
What the ETA Allows
With a valid ETA, you can:
- Visit the UK for tourism, leisure, or seeing family and friends
- Attend business meetings, conferences, or trade events (without being employed in the UK)
- Transit through the UK between international destinations
- Study at a short course or programme lasting up to 30 days
Each entry can be for up to six months, subject to the Border Force officer's decision on arrival.
What the ETA Does Not Allow
An ETA does not permit:
- Paid employment or self-employment in the UK
- Unpaid work placements that would otherwise require permission
- Enrolment on a course lasting more than 30 days
- Accessing public funds
- Settling in the UK permanently
If you want to work in the UK, you need a work visa. For most skilled professionals, that means the Skilled Worker visa with a job offer from a licensed UK sponsor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Travelling without an ETA. Airlines are required to check ETA status before boarding. You will be denied boarding if you arrive at the gate without one.
- Applying for an ETA when you already have a UK visa. If you hold a valid UK visa or eVisa, you do not need an ETA for that trip.
- Confusing the ETA with the EVW. If you are a national of one of the six Gulf countries, you use the EVW system, not the ETA.
- Letting your ETA expire with your old passport and not reapplying. When you renew your passport, your old ETA becomes invalid. Apply for a new one using your new passport details.
- Assuming an ETA means you can work. An ETA covers visits only. Working without a visa is a serious breach of immigration law.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for a UK ETA at the airport?
No. You must have a valid ETA before you travel. Airlines check ETA status at check-in and will deny boarding without one. Apply online through the UK ETA app or gov.uk well before your departure date.
Who needs a UK ETA?
From 2 April 2025, nationals of most visa-free countries need a UK ETA before travelling. This includes citizens of the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and most European Union countries, among others. The ETA is not required by those who already need a UK visa, British or Irish citizens, or those with existing UK immigration status.
How much does the UK ETA cost?
The UK ETA costs £10 per application. It is valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes sooner, and covers multiple trips during that period.
Can I work in the UK with an ETA?
No. An ETA allows you to visit, transit, do business meetings, or study for up to 30 days. It does not permit paid employment, self-employment, or long-term study. If you want to work in the UK, you need a work visa with sponsorship from a licensed UK employer.
Does an ETA guarantee entry to the UK?
No. An ETA is pre-clearance, not a guarantee of entry. Border Force officers at the UK port of entry can still refuse admission if they have concerns. You may be asked questions about your travel plans, accommodation, and finances on arrival.
Related Terms
Want to work in the UK rather than just visit? Find roles with licensed sponsors. Search jobs