Traveling to the United Kingdom now requires a new entry requirement for certain nationalities: the Electronic Travel Authorization, or ETA. This digital permission is linked to your passport and allows you to travel to the UK. Let’s break down everything you need to know about the UK’s ETA system.
Who Needs an Electronic Travel Authorization for the UK?
Whether you need an electronic travel authorization depends primarily on two factors: your nationality and when you plan to travel.
Check if you can apply for an ETA.
Currently, the ETA is being rolled out in phases, starting with nationals of certain countries. It’s essential to use the official UK government link provided above to check your specific situation based on your passport and travel date. This will ensure you have the most up-to-date information on electronic travel authorization requirements.
Who is Exempt from Requiring an ETA?
Not everyone needs to apply for an electronic travel authorization. You are exempt if you fall into any of the following categories:
- Visa Holders: If you already possess a valid UK visa, you do not need an ETA. Your visa serves as your travel permission.
- UK Residence Permission: Individuals with the right to live, work, or study in the UK, including those with settled or pre-settled status or right of abode, are exempt.
- Airport Transit (Specific Cases): If you are transiting through a UK airport without passing through border control, you may not need an ETA. However, it’s crucial to confirm this with your airline to avoid any issues, especially if you are unsure whether you will remain airside.
- British and Irish Citizens: As citizens of the UK and Ireland, you do not require an electronic travel authorization.
- British Overseas Territories Citizens: Those traveling with a British overseas territories citizen passport are also exempt.
- Residents of Ireland (Specific Travel Routes): If you live in Ireland and are traveling to the UK from Ireland, Guernsey, Jersey, or the Isle of Man, you are exempt from the ETA requirement.
- Children on France-UK School Trips: Children traveling on the France-UK school trip travel information form do not need an ETA for these specific trips.
Alt text: Close-up of a passport, essential document for applying for an electronic travel authorization.
Special Case: Dual Citizenship
If you hold dual citizenship and one of your citizenships is British or Irish, you are not required to obtain an electronic travel authorization. To prove your right to enter the UK, you can use one of the following:
- A valid British passport.
- A valid Irish passport.
- Another valid passport that contains a certificate of entitlement to the right of abode in the UK.
What Can You Do With an Electronic Travel Authorization?
An electronic travel authorization permits you to undertake certain activities in the UK, including:
- Tourism: Visit the UK for holidays, leisure, or to see family and friends.
- Short-term Study: Engage in short courses of study that are not the primary reason for your visit.
- Business Trips: Attend business meetings, conferences, or events.
If your reason for visiting the UK falls outside of these categories, it is essential to check if you need a visa instead. For instance, if you plan to work or study long-term, a visa will likely be necessary.
It’s important to remember that an electronic travel authorization does not guarantee entry into the UK. Upon arrival, you will still need to pass through border control, either by seeing a Border Force officer or using an ePassport gate if you are eligible.
Furthermore, if you have a criminal record or have previously been refused entry to the UK, you might consider applying for a Standard Visitor visa instead of relying on an ETA. This is because a visa application allows for a more detailed review of your circumstances.
What Are the Limitations of an ETA?
While an electronic travel authorization simplifies travel for many, it comes with certain limitations:
- Maximum Stay Duration: You cannot stay in the UK for more than 6 months with an ETA. For longer stays, a visa is required.
- Work Restrictions: You are generally prohibited from undertaking paid or unpaid work for a UK company or as a self-employed individual with an ETA. Exceptions are made for permitted paid engagements, events, or work under the Creative Worker visa concession.
- No Public Funds Access: You cannot claim public funds or benefits while in the UK with an electronic travel authorization.
- No Extended Stays Through Frequent Visits: The ETA is not intended for individuals seeking to live in the UK through frequent or successive visits. Border control may question such travel patterns.
- Restrictions on Marriage/Civil Partnerships: You cannot marry, register a civil partnership, or give notice of marriage or civil partnership on an ETA. For these purposes, you need to apply for a Marriage Visitor visa.
What is the Cost of an ETA?
Applying for an electronic travel authorization costs £10 per person. This fee is applicable to all travelers, including babies and children, who each require their own ETA. You can apply for multiple people at once if needed. It’s crucial to note that the application fee is non-refundable, even if your application is unsuccessful or you decide not to travel.
How to Apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization
The most efficient method to apply for an electronic travel authorization is through the official UK ETA app.
To complete your application, you will need the following:
- Valid Passport: The passport you will use for travel. Ensure it is not a photocopy or digital version.
- Email Access: Access to your email account to receive notifications and your ETA confirmation.
- Payment Method: A credit card, debit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay to pay the application fee.
During the application process, you will be required to upload or take photos of:
- Your passport.
- A photo of your face.
Notably, you do not need to provide your travel details as part of the electronic travel authorization application.
Alt text: UK ETA app displayed on a mobile phone screen, showing the application interface for electronic travel authorization.
Alternative Application Method
If you cannot use the app, you can still apply online. The online portal is also the recommended method if you are applying for someone else who is not physically present with you.
Processing Time for Your ETA
Typically, you can expect to receive a decision on your electronic travel authorization application within 3 working days. Many applicants receive a decision much sooner than this timeframe. However, in some cases, processing may take longer than 3 working days.
Group Applications
It is important to note that each individual traveler must apply for their own electronic travel authorization separately, even if traveling as a group. You may also receive decisions at different times, even if applications are submitted simultaneously.
Traveling Urgently
You must apply for an electronic travel authorization prior to traveling to the UK. You are permitted to travel while awaiting a decision, but it is advisable to apply as early as possible to avoid any potential delays to your travel plans.
After You Receive Your ETA
Once your application is approved, you will receive an email confirmation that you have been granted an electronic travel authorization. This ETA is digitally linked to the passport you used for your application.
Your electronic travel authorization is valid for 2 years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. During this validity period, you can travel to the UK multiple times without needing to reapply, as long as each visit adheres to the ETA’s terms and conditions.
Need Help?
For further assistance or if you have additional questions, you can use the ETA webchat service for real-time support.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the UK electronic travel authorization. Ensure you check the official government website for the most current information and to determine if you need to apply based on your nationality and travel plans.
