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The UK's ETA scheme is now live for visitors from many countries. Here's everything you need to know about cost, application, and who needs it.
The United Kingdom has officially launched its Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme, marking a significant change to how many international visitors enter the country. The ETA is now required for nationals from dozens of countries who previously could visit the UK without any pre-travel permission.
What Is the UK ETA?
The Electronic Travel Authorisation is a digital permission linked to your passport. It does not replace a visa, visitors who already need a visa to enter the UK still require one. Instead, it bridges the gap for nationals from visa-exempt countries who can now visit for short stays without a full visa but must obtain ETA approval before travel.
Who Needs It?
Nationals from many non-EU, non-EEA countries need an ETA to visit the UK for tourism, business, or transit stays of up to 6 months. This includes citizens of countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and many Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states.
EU and EEA nationals currently remain exempt, as do British nationals (including those with British National Overseas status in certain cases).
How to Apply
Applications are made through the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) official app or online portal. The process typically takes under 10 minutes:
- Download the official UKVI app or visit the government portal
- Provide your passport details and a photo
- Answer security and eligibility questions
- Pay the fee of £10
Most decisions are made within hours, though the government advises applying at least 3 working days before travel.
Key Details
- ·Cost: £10 per application
- ·Validity: Once granted, the ETA is valid for 2 years or until your passport expires, whichever is sooner
- ·Multiple trips: Covers multiple trips during the validity period
- ·Maximum stay: Up to 6 months per visit (tourism/business)
- ·Study: Permitted for up to 3 months on an ETA
What the ETA Does Not Allow
An ETA does not permit paid work in the UK. Those wishing to work, study for longer than 3 months, or stay longer than 6 months still require the appropriate visa.
Implications for Travelers
For most visitors from eligible countries, the ETA adds a simple, low-cost administrative step to UK travel. The main risk is forgetting to apply and arriving at check-in without one, airlines are responsible for checking and may deny boarding.
If you plan to visit the UK, apply well in advance of your trip. The ETA is valid for multiple trips, so once you have it, you won't need to reapply for two years.
Always verify current requirements with the official UK government website before travel, as policies can change.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who needs the UK ETA?
Nationals of non-EU/EEA countries that were previously visa-exempt, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and GCC states, now need an ETA for UK visits.
How much does the UK ETA cost?
£10 per application. Once granted, it is valid for 2 years or until your passport expires, covering unlimited short visits within that period.
Can I work in the UK on an ETA?
No. The UK ETA permits tourism, short business visits, and study of up to 3 months — not paid employment. A work visa is required for employment.
VizaHunt Editorial Team
Visa & Travel Research
The VizaHunt editorial team researches visa policies, passport rankings, and travel regulations across 195 countries. Our data is sourced from official government immigration portals, bilateral treaty records, and embassy publications, cross-referenced for accuracy before publication.