Frequently Asked Questions
Find comprehensive answers to the most common questions travellers have about the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation process.
The UK ETA is a mandatory digital travel permission required for nationals of qualifying countries who wish to visit the United Kingdom for short-duration stays. It is obtained entirely online, linked to your passport electronically, and serves as your pre-approved authorisation to travel to the UK for tourism, business, transit, or family visits.
If you hold a passport from one of the countries listed on our eligibility page and you plan to visit the UK for a short-term purpose, you will likely need an ETA. Travellers who already possess a valid UK visa or have settled or pre-settled status do not require a separate ETA.
The majority of UK ETA applications are processed within a matter of hours. However, in cases that require additional verification, the review period may extend. We strongly recommend submitting your application at least 72 hours before your planned departure date to allow ample time.
Your passport should ideally have a minimum of six months remaining validity beyond the date you plan to leave the United Kingdom. If your passport is close to expiration, we recommend renewing it before submitting your ETA application to avoid complications.
You will need your full name as it appears on your passport, date of birth, nationality, passport number, passport expiry date, expected arrival date in the UK, purpose of visit, and answers to standard eligibility and security screening questions.
Yes. Once your ETA is approved, it permits multiple trips to the United Kingdom within its validity period. Each individual visit must not exceed the maximum permitted duration of stay, but you do not need to reapply for each separate journey.
Your Electronic Travel Authorisation is digitally linked to the specific passport number used during application. If you obtain a new passport for any reason, you must submit a new ETA application using your updated passport details before travelling.
Absolutely. After submitting your application, you receive a unique reference number that allows you to monitor the status of your ETA in real time through our tracking portal. Status updates are also sent to your registered email address.
If your ETA application is not approved, you will receive a notification explaining the reason. Depending on the circumstances, you may be able to address the issue and submit a new application, or you may need to explore alternative travel authorisation options.
An approved ETA grants you permission to travel to the United Kingdom, but final entry decisions are made by border officials at the point of arrival. You should be prepared to answer questions about your visit and demonstrate that you meet entry requirements.
The ETA application involves a processing fee that covers the review and verification of your submission. The fee structure is designed to be straightforward with no hidden charges. Full details are provided during the application process before any payment is collected.
Each traveller requires their own individual ETA application. However, you may complete the application form on behalf of other eligible travellers such as children or elderly family members, provided you have accurate access to their passport and personal details.