What is the UK ETA?
The UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is an online entry requirement introduced by the British government, applicable to travellers from visa-exempt countries visiting or transiting the United Kingdom. Similar to the ESTA (USA), eTA (Canada), and ETIAS (Europe), the UK ETA simplifies border entry, enhancing security while facilitating smoother travel experiences.
Why was the UK ETA introduced?
The UK ETA was established to improve border security and streamline entry processes by pre-screening visitors from visa-exempt countries. It aims to reduce illegal immigration, criminal activities, and terrorism risks by digitally verifying traveller details prior to arrival. The ETA scheme is part of the UK's broader digital border strategy, becoming mandatory by 2025 for most visa-waiver countries, including South Korea, the US, Canada, Australia, and EU member states.
How do I apply for a UK ETA?
You can apply for a UK ETA via the official GOV.UK website or dedicated mobile app, but applying through our website offers the simplest, fastest, and most convenient application experience.
Our advanced AI-powered passport recognition technology quickly recognizes your passport details—including your full name, passport number, expiry date, and nationality—from a single photo. This allows your application form to be automatically filled in seconds, saving you valuable time and significantly reducing the risk of mistakes.
By minimizing manual data entry, our website ensures your UK ETA application is the quickest, easiest, and most accurate available. In most cases, approvals are granted within just a few minutes, and your approved ETA is electronically linked to your passport, meaning you won’t need to print any additional documents for entry to the UK.
What you need to apply for your UK ETA on our website:
A valid biometric (electronic) passport (auto-filled by photo recognition)
A valid email address (for ETA approval notifications).
A credit/debit card (to pay the £16 ETA application fee)
Who needs a UK ETA?
The ETA applies to visitors who:
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Are citizens of visa-exempt countries (e.g., South Korea, USA, EU, Canada, Australia).
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Intend short visits (tourism, family/friends visit, business meetings, transit) of up to 6 months.
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Hold valid biometric (electronic) passports.
Note: British or Irish nationals, and holders of long-term UK visas, are exempt from the ETA requirement.
Validity and conditions of UK ETA
Validity: 2 years from approval or until passport expiry, whichever is sooner.
Allowed Stay: Maximum 6 months per visit, multiple entries allowed within validity.
UK ETA vs Standard Visitor Visa
The UK ETA differs significantly from the traditional visitor visa in application ease, processing times, and cost:
| Criteria | UK ETA | Standard Visitor Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Eligibility | Visa-exempt countries | Visa-required countries |
| Application Method | Online only | Online + biometric data at visa centre |
| Processing Time | Usually within hours (max 72h) | 3+ weeks |
| Cost | £16 | £115+ |
Important considerations for travellers
ETA must be obtained before boarding flights to the UK.
Always use the same passport linked to your ETA.
Ensure accuracy of all provided details to avoid entry issues.
ETA approval does not guarantee entry; immigration officials have the final say.