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The UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a mandatory digital entry system introduced to streamline the process of traveling to the United Kingdom, making the journey more efficient, secure, and convenient. Most visitors from visa-exempt countries—regardless of the purpose of travel—must apply for an ETA online before arriving in the UK.

This digital requirement is part of the UK government's broader initiative to modernize border control, improve traveler screening, and reduce wait times at immigration checkpoints. Whether you're visiting for tourism, business, short-term study, or to reconnect with family and friends, the UK ETA ensures that essential personal and travel information is submitted in advance for a smoother arrival experience.

From exploring the historic landmarks of London to discovering the landscapes of the Scottish Highlands or enjoying the cultural richness of Wales and Northern Ireland, obtaining a UK ETA is a key step in preparing for your visit to the United Kingdom.

FAQs

The UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a mandatory digital travel permit required for nationals of visa-exempt countries entering or transiting through the UK. It links electronically to your passport and allows multiple entries for stays of up to six months each.
●​ An ETA is not a visa and does not guarantee entry, but it permits travel to the UK.​

●​ Most non‑visa nationals—including citizens from the U.S., Canada, Australia, New Zealand, EU/EEA countries—traveling to the UK for tourism, visiting friends/family, business, short-term study, creative work concessions, or landside transit.
​ ●​ British and Irish citizens, visa holders, UK residents, and certain transit passengers who remain airside are exempt.

The ETA system has been phased in since late 2023:
●​ 15 Nov 2023: Qatar​
●​ 22 Feb 2024: Gulf Cooperation Council countries (e.g., Saudi Arabia, UAE)
​ ●​ 8 Jan 2025: Most non-European visa-exempt nationals (including U.S., Canada, Australia)​
●​ 2 Apr 2025: Eligible European nationals

●​ Allow up to three working days for completion, especially in cases requiring manual review.

●​ Two-year validity, or until your passport expires—whichever comes first.​
●​ Allows multiple visits, each up to six months per entry.
Can I use one ETA for multiple people?
●​ No. Each traveler—including children and infants—must apply and receive their own ETA

What Happens Next?

UK eTA Decision

After the application is processed, the applicant will receive a decision on their eTA application by email.

Approval

Once approved, the eTA is automatically connected to the traveler’s passport and a confirmation is sent via email. There’s no need to present a separate document upon arrival — border agents can verify the eTA electronically. The authorization stays validfor two years, or until your passport expires — whichever comes first — and allows for multiple visits to the UK, with each stay lasting up to six months.

Rejection

If your eTA application is declined, you’ll be notified of the outcome by email. Common reasons for refusal include ineligibility, errors in your application, or security-related issues. In such cases, you may still be able to enter the UK by applying for a standard visa, depending on the purpose and length of your intended stay.

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