UK ETA for Hong Kong Citizens

The UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is a digital travel permit that is an entry requirement to the UK for visa-exempt foreign nationals, including Hong Kong citizens. ETA applications initially opened for Qatari citizens in October 2023, followed by Hong Kong Special Administrative Region passport holders and British National (Overseas) passport holders on November 27, 2024, for travels starting January 8, 2025. This digital permit aims to enhance security and streamline the entry process for visitors.

The UK ETA allows travelers to stay in the UK for up to 6 months for various short-stay purposes, including:

• Tourism, visiting family and friends.
• Business activities or short-term study.
• Staying up to 3 months under the Creative Worker visa concession.
• Undertaking a permitted paid engagement.
• Transiting through the UK, including cases where going through border control is not required.

As a Hong Kong citizen planning to visit the United Kingdom, you’ll soon need to obtain a UK ETA in 2025 before your trip. This new requirement will affect how you prepare for travel to the UK from Hong Kong. Understanding the ETA process is crucial for ensuring a smooth journey. On this page, you’ll learn about the UK ETA system, its benefits, and how it will impact your travel plans. We’ll guide you through the application process, eligibility criteria, and important deadlines to help you easily navigate this new travel requirement. 

The United Kingdom has long been a popular destination for Hong Kong travelers. In 2023, the UK welcomed 256,000 visits from Hong Kong, with a total expenditure of £381.7 million. The average spend per visit was an impressive £1,491, highlighting the economic importance of these visitors. Interestingly, 20% of these visits were made by British passport holders, while 63% were by Hong Kong nationals. 

The UK ETA fee is £78, which includes both the government fee and our professional service fees for processing your application.

Typically, ETA applications are processed within 3 working days, though occasional delays may occur. In some cases, your application can be processed within a few hours. Once approved, your ETA remains valid for 2 years, allowing multiple entries to the UK. However, if you obtain a new passport during this period, you’ll need to apply for a new ETA. It’s important to note that an ETA doesn’t guarantee entry; a border control officer will still need to approve your entry upon arrival. 

The UK ETA cannot be extended or renewed. If your ETA expires and you wish to stay in the UK beyond its validity, you must exit the UK, apply for a new UK ETA, and re-enter with this new ETA. It’s important to plan ahead to avoid overstaying the ETA’s expiration date.

When applying for a UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), it’s important to understand the potential grounds for rejection or refusal. Common reasons for ETA rejection include incomplete or incorrect information, such as missing or inaccurate details like your name, passport number, or travel plans. Failure to meet eligibility criteria, like not having the correct passport type or nationality, can also lead to rejection. Additionally, technical issues during submission, such as problems with uploading your passport photo or payment issues, may result in a rejection.

If your ETA application is rejected, you will be informed of the reason and can reapply after correcting any errors or missing information. A rejection does not mean you are ineligible for the ETA but that your application did not meet the submission criteria.

Common reasons for ETA refusal include serious criminal convictions, especially for major offenses, and previous immigration breaches, such as overstaying a visa or violating immigration laws in the UK or another country. If you are flagged for security reasons or deemed a risk to public safety or national security, your application may also be refused.

If your ETA application is refused, you cannot appeal the decision. Instead, you will need to apply for an appropriate visa if you still wish to travel to the UK.

The UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) simplifies travel for eligible visitors, but it’s essential to understand key details before you go.

Connection Between the UK ETA and your Passport

• The UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) is linked to the specific passport used during the application process.
• The ETA is digitally linked to the passport number, meaning that the passport used for application must be the same one used for travel.
• If you have multiple valid passports (e.g., dual nationality), apply for the UK ETA with the passport you plan to travel with. This is critical for smooth entry, as border officials will check the passport linked to your ETA.

Travel and Entry Process

• Once you have an approved UK ETA, it will be electronically linked to your passport, so there is no need for a physical visa or stamp.
• Upon arrival, you’ll be required to present the passport associated with the ETA.
• Border control officers will verify your UK entry requirements from Hong Kong, including your ETA, and passport details, and might ask some questions, such as about the purpose of the visit and the duration of your stay.
• Make sure you have supporting documents (such as proof of onward travel or accommodation) in case they are requested.

Key Points After Passing Through Border Control

• After clearing UK border control, you can move freely within the UK for the duration allowed by your ETA (typically up to 6 months for tourists).
• Keep your passport with the linked ETA on hand, as you may need to show it at internal security checks, especially when traveling by air, rail, or other forms of public transportation.
• If you plan to travel to Northern Ireland or other UK territories, the ETA will still be valid, but ensure you comply with any specific local requirements if applicable.