UK ETA
Application
The ETA application process on our website is easy and straightforward and takes just a few minutes. Before you start, check the list of eligible countries and ensure your passport is issued by one of these countries.
The entire application process for the UK ETA is completed online, making it convenient and easily accessible from anywhere in the world. Visit our application page to start the process and fill out the online form with your personal and travel details, making sure you use accurate information to avoid any issues.
Who Does Not Need a UK ETA?
Because the UK ETA system is only available to nationals from certain countries, the following individuals do not require an ETA:
- British and Irish citizens
- Individuals with a valid UK visa
- EU/EEA citizens
- Individuals with a British overseas territories passport.
- Individuals with a UK immigration status prior to traveling to the UK.
Although the ETA is currently only available to nationals of the seven countries listed above, the UK government is currently expanding the scheme and more nationalities will be eligible to apply at a later date.
UK ETA: What It Allows You to Do
An ETA grants travelers permission to enter the UK for specific purposes, including:
- Tourism, visiting family and friends, business, or short-term study for up to six months.
- Visits of up to three months using the Creative Worker visa concession.
- Visits to the UK for a permitted paid engagement for which you are invited.
- Transit through the UK.
If you are visiting the UK for another reason, you will need to apply for a visa instead. The ETA does not permit long-term visits.
Requirements for UK ETA Application
To apply for a UK ETA, you must ensure you submit the required documentation to prevent your application from being rejected. The following documents are required:
Valid passport
Applicants must have a valid passport from one of the qualifying counties. The passport must be valid for the duration of your stay in the UK, be in good condition, and should have at least one blank page for any necessary stamps.
Recent photograph
You will need to provide a current passport-sized photograph that meets the official size and format guidelines. This photo should be clear and properly aligned and reflect your true appearance.
Payment method
You will need a valid payment method to cover the UK ETA application fee. Accepted payment options include a credit or debit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay.
Email address
You will need to provide a working email address where you can receive your UK ETA approval and any related communications. This email address will be used for all correspondence regarding your application.
UK ETA Application Process
Applying for a UK ETA is a straightforward process that can be completed on our website through the application page.
UK ETA Application Process
Applying for a UK ETA is a straightforward process that can be completed on our website through the application page.
Complete the UK ETA application form
Navigate to our UK ETA online application page and complete the UK visa application form online. You will need to provide personal information and travel details and submit a digital copy of your passport and a recent photograph.
Pay the required fees
To complete your application, you will need to pay the UK ETA fee. You can use a valid credit or debit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay to process the payment.
Receive your UK ETA
Once your application is approved, you will receive your UK ETA via email. You can then finalize your travel plans. If your application is rejected, you will be notified by email with details on any next steps or options available.
Step-by-Step Guide to Completing the UK ETA Application Form
When completing the United Kingdom ETA application form on our website, it is essential to complete it as honestly and as accurately as possible. Below is a concise step-by-step guide to help you complete the application correctly:
Personal details
You will need to provide personal information including your full legal name, nationality, date of birth, and the gender on your passport. Ensure that these details exactly match the information in your passport to avoid any discrepancies that could delay or affect your application.
Passport information
You will need to provide your passport number, the country where it was issued, and its expiry date. Double-check these details for accuracy to prevent any issues during the processing of your application.
Contact details
You will need to input your current home address, a valid email address, and a contact number. Your email address will be the key method of communication throughout the ETA application process, so ensure it is correct and you have access to it.
Travel itinerary
Include your planned arrival and departure dates in the UK, as well as the reason for your visit to the UK and details about your accommodation. Providing this information helps the UK authorities understand the purpose and duration of your visit and check that your application matches your travel plans.
Employment information
You may be asked to provide your current occupation and provide details about your employer, including the employer’s name and contact information. This information helps verify your background and the purpose of your visit and will be considered as part of the overall assessment of your application.
Health and background check
It is important that you answer all questions regarding your health and any criminal record truthfully. Accurate responses are essential for the UK government to assess your eligibility and the security risks associated with your visit.
Travel history
You will need to provide information about any previous visits to the UK or other countries, including past visa refusals. Providing a complete travel history helps immigration authorities evaluate your application and detect any potential issues.
Document upload
Upload a recent passport-sized photograph and a scanned copy of the passport’s bio page and ensure that the uploaded documents meet the specified size and format requirements to avoid delays in processing.
Payment information
Complete the payment for the UK ETA using a valid credit or debit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay. The payment is necessary to finalize your application.
Review and submit
It is recommended that you carefully review all the information you have entered before submitting your application. Checking for accuracy and completeness ensures that your application is processed smoothly and reduces the risk of errors.
Traveling to the UK
The ETA helps to simplify and streamline the entry process into the UK in the following ways:
With an ETA, travelers obtain prior authorization to enter the UK. The ETA is linked electronically to your passport, making it easy for border control to access and verify your travel authorization quickly. This pre-approval system helps speed up the entry process at border control, as officials already have essential details about your travel intentions and background.
The online application process is quick and straightforward and allows travelers to apply from anywhere without the need for a physical visit to an embassy or consulate. This convenience saves time and reduces the hassle of traditional visa applications.
The ETA allows for multiple entries into the UK within its validity period, which is ideal for those planning frequent visits or multiple short stays. This flexibility helps streamline your travel schedule without the need for repeated applications.
Frequently
Asked Questions
The UK ETA costs £39, which includes the government ETA fees and our professional service fees.
American nationals do not currently need to apply for an ETA to visit the UK. Under current guidelines, US citizens can travel to the UK without a visa or ETA for up to six months.
The application processing time can vary depending on how many applications are currently being processed. The majority of applications are processed within three working days, but it is recommended to apply well in advance of your travel date to account for any unexpected delays.
A UK ETA is usually valid for two years from the date of approval. You can travel to the UK as many times as you want during the validity period, as long as each stay doesn’t exceed the maximum duration of stay (usually six months). However, if you get a new passport within the validity period, you will need to apply for a new ETA.
If your UK ETA application is denied, you will receive a notification via email explaining the reason for the refusal. You may be advised to contact the relevant authorities or reapply if there are any changes in your circumstances or if you believe there was an error in the application process.
Apply for UK ETA
Begin your application for a UK Electronic Travel Authorization now. Just fill out the online form to get started.