Planning a trip to the United Kingdom? Depending on your nationality, you might be wondering, “Do I need an ESTA to travel to UK?” The answer is no. The UK doesn’t use the ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) system like the United States. Instead, the UK has introduced its own electronic travel authorization known as the ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation). This guide clarifies who needs a UK ETA, who is exempt, and how to obtain one.
Who Needs a UK ETA?
Whether you need a UK ETA depends on your nationality and when you plan to travel.
Check if you can apply for an ETA on the official UK government website.
Who Doesn’t Need a UK ETA?
You don’t need a UK ETA if you fall into any of the following categories:
- You have a visa: If you already possess a valid UK visa, you are exempt from the ETA requirement.
- You have UK residency rights: Those with permission to live, work, or study in the UK, including settled or pre-settled status, or right of abode, do not need an ETA.
- You are transiting through a UK airport: If you are only transiting through a UK airport without passing through border control, you do not need an ETA. However, confirm this with your airline.
Airport Transit
- You are a British or Irish citizen: British and Irish citizens are exempt.
- You hold specific passports: Those traveling with a British Overseas Territories Citizen passport or a British National (Overseas) passport are exempt.
- Residents of Ireland: Individuals who live in Ireland and are traveling from Ireland, Guernsey, Jersey, or the Isle of Man are exempt.
- Children on French school trips: Children traveling on the France-UK school trip travel information form do not need an ETA.
- Exempt from immigration control: Those who are exempt from immigration control as defined by the UK government.
Dual Citizens
If you are a dual citizen and hold British or Irish citizenship, you do not need an ETA. You can prove your right to travel using a valid British or Irish passport. You can also use another valid passport containing a certificate of entitlement.
What Can You Do with a UK ETA?
With a valid UK ETA, you can:
- Visit the UK for tourism purposes.
- Visit the UK for business purposes.
- Visit the UK for study purposes (up to 6 months).
If you plan to visit the UK for reasons outside these parameters, check if you need a visa instead.
Keep in mind that an ETA does not guarantee entry into the UK. You will still need to either see a Border Force officer or use an ePassport gate upon arrival.
If you have a criminal record or have previously been refused entry into the UK, consider applying for a Standard Visitor visa instead.
What Can’t You Do with a UK ETA?
A UK ETA has limitations:
- You cannot stay in the UK for longer than 6 months.
- You cannot undertake paid or unpaid work for a UK company or as a self-employed individual. Exceptions apply for permitted paid engagements, events, or work under the Creative Worker visa concession.
- You cannot claim public funds (benefits).
- You cannot live in the UK through frequent or successive visits.
- You cannot marry or register a civil partnership, or give notice of marriage or civil partnership. For these purposes, you’ll need to apply for a Marriage Visitor visa.
How Much Does a UK ETA Cost?
The application fee for a UK ETA is £10 if you apply through the UK ETA app or online via GOV.UK. Be wary of other websites that may charge more. As of April 9th, the application fee is £16.
Each traveler, including babies and children, needs their own ETA. You can apply on behalf of others. Note that ETA fees are non-refundable after application.
How to Apply for a UK ETA
The fastest way to apply is by using the UK ETA app:
UK ETA App on Mobile
You will need:
- The passport you will use for travel (not a photocopy or digital version).
- Access to your email account.
- A valid payment method (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, JCB, Apple Pay, or Google Pay).
You will need to upload or take photos of your passport and your face. Travel details are not required during the application process.
If you can’t use the app, you can apply online. Applying online is also recommended if you are applying for someone else who is not with you.
How Long Does the UK ETA Application Take?
Most applicants receive a decision within 3 working days. However, sometimes it may take longer. Applying through alternative websites will not expedite the process.
Group Applications
Each person must apply separately for a UK ETA. Even when applying simultaneously, decisions may be issued at different times.
Traveling Soon?
You must apply for an ETA before traveling to the UK. You are permitted to travel while awaiting a decision.
After You Apply
Upon approval, you will receive an email confirming your ETA. The ETA is electronically linked to the passport you used during the application.
A UK ETA is valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. During this period, you can travel to the UK multiple times.
Need Help?
If you require further assistance, use the ETA webchat.
