In 2024, the UK introduced the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme as part of its updated border control measures. Travellers from eligible countries who previously entered the UK without a visa must now secure an ETA before arrival.
The UK ETA visa requirements apply to short-term visitors, including tourists, business travellers, and transit passengers. Though not a visa in the traditional sense, the ETA serves as a digital permission to travel. Without it, boarding your flight or entering the UK is not possible.
This blog by Axis Solicitors breaks down the entire process—from checking if you need an ETA to submitting your application and preparing for approval. Whether you’re planning a holiday, attending meetings, or just passing through, knowing the UK ETA visa requirements helps avoid unnecessary delays.
Who Needs a UK ETA?
As of the latest UK immigration reforms, the UK ETA visa requirements apply to nationals from certain countries that were previously visa-exempt. The ETA is a mandatory pre-screening system aimed at enhancing border security and controlling entry for short-term visitors.
Eligible Nationalities
The UK government is phasing in the ETA system by nationality. As of now, travellers from the following countries must apply for a UK ETA:
- Qatar
- Bahrain
- Jordan
- Kuwait
- Oman
- Saudi Arabia
- United Arab Emirates
Further expansions are planned, and by the end of 2024, most non-visa nationals, including citizens from the EU, USA, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, will be required to hold an ETA.
Who Is Exempt?
The ETA does not apply to:
- UK citizens and residents
- Irish nationals under the Common Travel Area (CTA)
- Individuals holding a UK visa
- Travellers entering from Ireland into Northern Ireland without crossing UK immigration checkpoints
- Transit passengers not entering the UK border
Purpose of Travel
The UK ETA visa requirements apply if your purpose of travel includes:
- Tourism or leisure
- Visiting family or friends
- Short-term business visits
- Transit through the UK
- Attending events or conferences
However, you cannot work or settle in the UK under an ETA.
Duration of Stay
An ETA allows multiple entries for up to 6 months per visit (or 3 months for those arriving via the Common Travel Area), depending on your reason for travel.
Eligibility Criteria for a UK ETA
Meeting the UK ETA visa requirements begins with understanding whether you’re eligible. Although the ETA is simpler and faster than a full visa, you must still satisfy a clear set of conditions to apply.
1. Nationality
As noted, only travellers from designated countries are eligible to apply for a UK ETA. The list is expanding, so applicants must confirm their eligibility on the UK Home Office website before applying.
2. Purpose of Visit
You must intend to visit the UK for a permitted reason, such as:
- Tourism – sightseeing, holidays, or family visits
- Business – meetings, interviews, conferences (with no paid work)
- Transit – passing through the UK en route to another country
- Short Study – up to 30 days at an accredited institution
You must not intend to work, live, or stay longer than allowed.
3. Valid Travel Document
Applicants must have a biometric passport valid for the entire duration of their stay. The passport must be from a country included in the ETA scheme and must be machine-readable and scannable.
4. No Criminal History or Immigration Violations
Applicants must not:
- Have a criminal record involving serious offences
- Be subject to any deportation or removal orders
- Have previously overstayed in the UK or other immigration violations
The ETA application includes security screening against UK and international databases. Any red flags may lead to refusal.
5. Sufficient Funds and Exit Plans
Although not always required to prove at the application stage, you may be questioned at the border. Be ready to demonstrate:
- Adequate funds to support yourself
- Proof of accommodation
- A return or onward travel ticket
These checks align with overall UK ETA visa requirements, ensuring your visit meets UK public interest standards.
Documents Required for a UK ETA Application
To meet the UK ETA visa requirements, you’ll need to gather a concise but essential set of documents. Unlike traditional visas, the ETA is entirely digital, but accuracy and document integrity are critical for approval.
1. Valid Biometric Passport
- Must be issued by an ETA-eligible country
- Should have at least six months’ validity from the date of arrival
- Must be machine-readable with an embedded chip
- Information must match exactly what you enter in the application
You’ll be required to scan the photo page or upload a clear image when applying.
2. Recent Passport-Style Photograph (Optional)
While not currently mandatory for all applicants, some may be asked to upload a digital photo. This should follow UK visa photo specifications:
- White background
- Neutral expression
- No accessories obscuring the face
It’s best to have one ready, just in case.
3. Contact Information
You’ll need to provide:
- Email address (for communication and ETA delivery)
- UK address if staying with friends, family, or in a hotel (if applicable)
- Emergency contact may be requested
4. Travel Details
- Expected arrival and departure dates
- Port of entry
- Purpose of visit (e.g., tourism, business, transit)
These details support your compliance with the UK ETA visa requirements and will be screened for patterns associated with immigration risk.
5. Payment Method
The ETA application requires an online payment, so ensure you have:
- A debit or credit card with international payment capability
- Funds to cover the ETA fee (around £10 at time of writing)
Payments are processed securely via the UK government’s portal, and no cash or offline options are accepted.
How to Apply for a UK ETA: Step-by-Step Guide
Understanding the UK ETA visa requirements isn’t enough—getting your application right is essential to avoid delays or refusals. Below is a streamlined, step-by-step guide to ensure a successful submission through the official channels.
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility and Gather Documents
Before anything else, ensure:
- Your nationality qualifies under the ETA scheme
- You have a valid biometric passport
- You’re travelling for an approved purpose
- You’ve gathered all necessary documentation and payment details
Step 2: Create an Account on the UK ETA Portal
Visit the official UK ETA application portal managed by the Home Office GOV.UK. You’ll need to:
- Provide a valid email address
- Create a secure password
- Verify your email before continuing
This account will allow you to track the status of your application and retrieve your ETA once issued.
Step 3: Complete the Application Form
Be precise and consistent when filling in the form. Sections will include:
- Personal details: full name, date of birth, nationality
- Passport information: passport number, expiry date, issuing country
- Travel plans: arrival date, purpose of visit, port of entry
- Background questions: health, criminal history, previous visa refusals
It’s crucial to double-check all entries. Mistakes—even minor typos—can lead to rejections or boarding denials.
Step 4: Upload Documents
Depending on system prompts or updates to policy, you may be asked to upload:
- A photo of your passport’s biodata page
- A digital passport-style photo (for some nationalities)
Ensure these are clear, in colour, and not altered or edited.
Step 5: Pay the ETA Fee
The current fee (subject to change) is £10 per applicant. You must pay by:
- Credit card
- Debit card
Payment is required before the application can be submitted. Once paid, you’ll receive an acknowledgment of submission.
Step 6: Await Approval
Most applications are processed within 72 hours, though many are approved sooner. You’ll be notified by email, and your ETA will be digitally linked to your passport.
You can also log in to your ETA account to check the status.
Step 7: Travel with Confidence
Once approved, your ETA is valid for:
- 2 years or until your passport expires (whichever comes first)
- Multiple entries, with each stay allowed up to 6 months
Make sure to travel with the same passport you used in the application, as the ETA cannot be transferred or updated to another passport.
Fees, Processing Times, and Validity of the UK ETA
Understanding the financial and logistical aspects of the UK ETA visa requirements is crucial for proper travel planning. Here’s a breakdown of the costs, timelines, and duration rules associated with the UK ETA scheme.
UK ETA Application Fee
As of the latest Home Office guidance:
- ETA Fee: £10
- Payment Methods Accepted: Debit or credit card
- Non-refundable: If your application is refused or withdrawn, the fee is not refunded.
This flat rate applies to each application, including those for children or dependants.
Processing Time
The UK ETA is designed to be fast and efficient:
- Standard Processing Time: Within 72 hours
- In Many Cases: Approval is granted in under 24 hours
- Delays May Occur If:
- Additional security checks are required
- Documents are unclear or missing
- The application has errors or inconsistencies
- Additional security checks are required
There’s currently no expedited or premium service for faster processing.
Validity Period
Once approved, the UK ETA is valid for:
- Two years from the date of issue
- Or until your passport expires—whichever comes first
During this validity window, you can enter the UK multiple times, provided each visit:
- Does not exceed 6 months
- Aligns with your original purpose of travel (e.g., tourism, business, transit)
For travellers using the Common Travel Area (CTA) route (e.g., entering the UK from Ireland), the stay is limited to 3 months under ETA rules.
Reapplying and Updating Information
If your passport expires or is lost, you must:
- Apply for a new UK ETA with the new passport details
- Pay the fee again, even if your previous ETA was still valid
You cannot update an existing ETA with a new passport—this is a common misunderstanding that can lead to denial of boarding.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for a UK ETA
Even though the ETA application is digital and streamlined, many travellers face refusals or delays due to small but costly errors. To stay compliant with UK ETA visa requirements, it’s essential to avoid the pitfalls that frequently derail applications.
1. Entering Incorrect Passport Information
One of the most common errors is:
- Typing the wrong passport number
- Entering an incorrect expiry date
- Using a nickname instead of the exact legal name
This will lead to mismatches at the border. Your ETA will be invalid even if approved, and you may be denied boarding.
Tip: Double-check all entries against the information in your passport’s biometric page before submitting.
2. Applying with a Non-Eligible Passport
Only nationals from countries covered by the ETA scheme can apply. Dual nationals must use the eligible passport during application and travel.
Using an ineligible passport, or switching passports between application and travel, invalidates your ETA.
3. Overlooking ETA Expiry or Misunderstanding Duration
Travellers sometimes assume the ETA lasts for a full two years without checking:
- Their passport’s expiration
- That each stay must not exceed 6 months
- The entry date limits for travel via the Common Travel Area
Misuse can result in entry refusal or future bans.
4. Submitting Incomplete or Low-Quality Documents
If you are prompted to upload documents or images:
- Don’t submit blurry scans or cropped photos
- Avoid edited or filtered images
- Follow the instructions carefully
The UK system uses automated and manual checks, and low-quality uploads can lead to rejection or requests for resubmission.
5. Failing to Monitor ETA Status
Some travellers mistakenly assume approval is instant or guaranteed. You must:
- Wait for confirmation via email
- Check your account on the ETA portal
- Not book travel until the ETA is approved
Do not travel if your ETA is pending or under review.
6. Booking Travel Too Soon
While most applications are processed quickly, it’s unwise to apply last-minute. Delays due to additional screening are not uncommon. Apply at least one week before your travel date. Also always keep in mind to insure that you meet the UK eta travel requirements for travelers.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the UK ETA visa requirements in 2025?
The UK ETA visa requirements in 2025 include:
- Holding a biometric passport from an eligible country
- Applying online before travel
- Travelling for a permitted purpose (tourism, business, transit, or short study)
- Having no criminal or immigration history that would flag security concerns
- Paying a £10 application fee
- Holding a passport valid for the duration of stay
These requirements are part of the UK’s digital border management system, and compliance is mandatory for all non-visa nationals under the scheme.
2. Do I need a UK ETA if I already have a visa?
No. Travellers who already hold a UK visa—whether it’s for study, work, settlement, or family—do not need an ETA. The UK ETA visa requirements apply only to those entering the UK without a visa, based on their nationality and short-term visit purpose.
3. Can children apply for a UK ETA?
Yes. Every traveller, regardless of age, must meet the UK ETA visa requirements. Parents or legal guardians must complete the application on behalf of minors and ensure that the child’s passport and travel plans align with the stated purpose of visit.
4. How long before travel should I apply for a UK ETA?
It is advisable to apply at least one week in advance. Although most applications are processed within 72 hours, delays can occur. Meeting UK ETA visa requirements means applying in time to address any issues or follow-up questions from the Home Office.
5. Will my UK ETA allow me to work or study long term?
No. The UK ETA visa requirements specifically prohibit employment or long-term study. You may:
- Attend business meetings
- Take part in short courses (under 30 days)
- Explore job opportunities (without working)
If your intention involves paid work, internships, or long-term education, you must apply for a relevant UK visa, not an ETA.
6. What happens if I travel without meeting UK ETA visa requirements?
If you travel to the UK without securing your ETA when required:
- You will likely be denied boarding at your departure airport
- If you arrive in the UK, you may be refused entry
- This can result in recorded immigration violations, affecting future applications
Travellers must ensure all UK ETA visa requirements are met before travel to avoid disruption.
7. Is the UK ETA linked to my passport?
Yes. The UK ETA is digitally linked to the passport used during the application. If you:
- Lose your passport
- Renew your passport
- Change your name or nationality
You must reapply for a new ETA. The UK ETA visa requirements state that you cannot transfer your ETA to a new passport.
8. What if my ETA application is refused?
A refusal means you did not meet one or more of the UK ETA visa requirements, which could relate to:
- Criminal history
- Immigration violations
- Incomplete or incorrect application details
If refused, you may:
- Request a review (if available)
- Reapply with corrected or additional information
- Consider applying for a full UK visa depending on your travel needs
Consulting an immigration solicitor—such as Axis Solicitors—can help assess your options and respond effectively.
9. Can I extend my stay with a UK ETA?
No. Under current UK ETA visa requirements, there is no extension or in-country conversion. If you need to stay longer than 6 months, you must leave the UK and apply for a suitable visa before returning.
10. Is my data secure when applying for a UK ETA?
Yes. Applications are submitted through the UK government’s secure platform, and personal data is protected under UK data protection law. However, as part of meeting UK ETA visa requirements, your data will be screened against security, criminal, and immigration databases.
Expert Legal Support for Your UK ETA Application
Navigating UK ETA visa requirements can seem straightforward—but one error or oversight can lead to costly delays or refusals. At Axis Solicitors, we specialise in UK immigration law and provide clear, tailored advice to ensure your travel plans go ahead smoothly.
Whether you’re unsure about your eligibility, have had a previous refusal, or want help preparing your application with zero mistakes—our expert solicitors are here to help.
