UK Entry Authorisation

Apply for your
UK ETA online

The UK Electronic Travel Authorisation is required before travelling to the United Kingdom. Fast, secure applications with expert review before every submission.

Tower Bridge London at sunset
✓  Expert Review
✓  Fast Processing
✓  Individuals & Families

What is the UK ETA?

The UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a pre-travel permission required by the United Kingdom for visitors from eligible countries who do not need a visa. It is linked electronically to your passport and must be obtained before you travel.

The UK ETA does not guarantee entry — Border Force officers retain the right to refuse admission on arrival — but it is a mandatory requirement to board a flight or vessel to the UK.

It is valid for multiple trips over two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.

Passport with visa stamps
2 yrs
Validity period
6 mo
Maximum stay per visit
0–72 hrs
Typical processing time

Who needs a UK ETA?

The UK ETA is required for nationals of many countries who previously could visit the UK without any prior authorisation. This includes visitors from the United States, Canada, Australia, the Gulf states, and many others.

Nationals who already require a UK visa are not eligible for the ETA — they must continue to apply for the appropriate visa. British and Irish citizens do not need an ETA.

Not sure if you need one? Visit ETA Permits and click Your Journey Begins Here — you can check your nationality on the application page instantly.

How to apply

Our simple three-step process ensures your UK ETA application is accurate, complete, and submitted correctly.

1

Complete the form

Enter your personal details, passport information, and travel plans on our secure online form. Takes around 10 minutes.

2

Expert review

Our team checks every application for accuracy before submission to the UK Home Office — minimising errors and rejections.

3

Receive your ETA

Your approved UK ETA is delivered by email and linked to your passport. No printing required — present your passport at the border.

Travelling to the UK
with your family?

Every traveller — including children — requires their own individual UK ETA linked to their own passport. ETA Permits makes it simple to submit applications for your whole family in one go.

Our team reviews all applications together, ensuring nothing is missed before your trip. Fully inclusive pricing means no surprises — what you see is what you pay.

Apply for your family
Family travelling through airport

Frequently asked questions

When did the UK ETA become mandatory?
The UK ETA was introduced in phases from 2024. It is now required for all eligible nationals before travelling to the United Kingdom, including for transit through UK airports.
Do I need a UK ETA if I am transiting through a UK airport?
In most cases yes — even if you are transiting through a UK airport and not leaving the international zone, you will require a UK ETA or appropriate visa. Some nationalities are exempt from transit requirements; check the full list at ETA Permits.
How long can I stay in the UK on an ETA?
Each visit to the United Kingdom under an ETA is limited to six months. The ETA itself remains valid for two years or until your passport expires, allowing multiple trips within that period.
Can I work or study in the UK on an ETA?
No. The UK ETA is for tourism, visiting family and friends, short business trips, and transit only. If you intend to work or study in the UK you will require a separate visa.
What happens if my UK ETA is refused?
If your ETA application is refused you will need to apply for a UK visa through the standard visa application process. ETA Permits reviews all applications before submission to minimise the risk of refusal.
Do I need to print my UK ETA?
No. The UK ETA is linked electronically to your passport. You do not need to carry a printed copy — simply present your passport at check-in and at the UK border.

Ready to apply for your UK ETA?

Fast, simple and fully inclusive pricing. Expert review before every submission.

Begin your Journey…