The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA): What You Need To Know

The scheme is set to go fully live this February. Here's what to expect.

In November 2023, the UK government introduced the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) – a new border control for foreign nationals who previously enjoyed visa-free entry to the UK.

Initially soft launched for select countries in the Middle East, the ETA is now set to become mandatory for all foreign visitors from Europe, North America and beyond on 25 February, 2026.

The system is similar to the digital ESTA programme in place in the US, or the Australian ETA. The government said the introduction of the ETA is to “digitise the borders” and “help to strengthen the UK’s border security and improve the travel experience”.

Here we give an overview of the new scheme.

What Is It?

The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a new piece of digital documentation granting people permission to travel or transit in the UK.

It is an extra step of pre-clearance before travel, that does not replace travel documentation or guarantee right to enter the country. Visitors will still need to pass through border control and security as normal.

An ETA will be required for visitors travelling for tourism, visiting family or friends, business or short-term studies, or transiting, with stays allowed for up to six months.

The authorisation will be required whether travelling via boat, plane or train, and boarding will be denied without an ETA.

The ETA will last for two years, and can be used for multiple journeys. If your passport expires in that time you will need to apply for a new ETA.

Visitors coming for other reasons, such as long-term work or study, will need to apply for the appropriate visa.

Who Will Need An ETA?

The ETA will apply to all foreign nationals (including children) who currently do not require a visa to travel to the UK, such as US, European, and Australian nationals.

People with British or Irish passports (or who have legal residency in Ireland), permission to live, work or study in the UK, or those with visas to visit the UK will not need an ETA. Dual nationals should travel on their British or Irish passport.

When Does The ETA Come Into Effect?

The phased roll out of the ETA system began with nationals from Qatar in November 2023. This was extended to nationals from Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia and the UAE in February 2024.

The ETA scheme will go fully live from 25 February this year, and become mandatory for all territories.

How Do I Apply?

Applicants can apply at gov.uk or via the ETA app before booking travel to the UK. You’ll be required to enter your passport details and travel information, and will need to travel on the same passport used in the application.

Individuals can apply for an ETA on behalf of others, for example, office travel managers can apply on behalf of colleagues that will be travelling. Each traveller will need their own ETA.

How Much Will It Cost?

A single application is currently £16 and is set to increase to £20 – double the original cost of £10 per application when the ETA launched in November 2023.

How Long Does It Take To Process?

Successful applications are expected to take up to a maximum of three days to process. Applicants will receive an email confirmation and the ETA will be linked electronically to their passport.

A paper copy is not required but can be useful as a back up in case of technical errors. Applications that require further investigation may take longer.

What Happens If I’m Denied An ETA?

If your application for an ETA is unsuccessful there is no appeal process. In such cases, the individual’s next port of call would be to explore alternative visa options.

These include a Standard Visitor visa, which requires a more comprehensive overview of personal information/travel and immigration history.