UK ETA 2026 Guide: How to Apply Online, Requirements, Cost, App & Eligibility
UK ETA 2026 is an important travel requirement for many visitors planning to travel to the United Kingdom. The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) allows eligible travellers to visit the UK for tourism, visiting family and certain other permitted purposes for stays of up to 6 months. The official ETA application can be completed online or through the official ETA app, making the process simple and fully digital.
In this complete ETA 2026 guide, you will learn who needs an ETA, the latest eligibility and application requirements, how to submit a ETA online, how to use the ETA app, how much the application costs, how long approval takes and how long an ETA remains valid. From preparing your passport and personal details to receiving your decision by email, this guide explains the process step by step.
The current ETA application fee is £20, and the authorisation normally remains valid for 2 years or until the linked passport expires, whichever comes first. Each eligible traveller, including children and babies, generally needs their own ETA.
Whether you are planning a holiday, visiting relatives or making another permitted short visit, understanding the ETA 2026 requirements before travelling can help you avoid unnecessary delays. Always use the official GOV.UK service when checking your eligibility or submitting an application, as third-party websites may charge additional fees.Visit our homepage for more informaion Click Here.
UK ETA: Who Needs It and How to Apply
Planning a trip to the United Kingdom? Depending on your nationality and the reason for your visit, you may need a UK (Electronic Travel Authorisation) before you travel.
An ETA is a digital travel permission linked to your passport. It is designed for eligible visitors who can normally travel to the UK without applying for a traditional visa. Once approved, the authorisation is electronically connected to the passport used in the application, so there is usually no separate document to carry.
The official GOV. ETA service is the place to check your requirements, apply for an ETA and manage an existing authorisation. An approved ETA can allow eligible travellers to visit the UK, Jersey, Guernsey or the Isle of Man for visits of up to six months, depending on the purpose of travel and the applicable immigration rules.
UK ETA at a Glance
Here are the main points to know before you apply:
| UK ETA requirement | Current information |
|---|---|
| Official service | GOV.UK |
| Application fee | £20 |
| Application methods | Online or ETA app |
| Usual decision time | Usually within 1 day |
| Maximum stated processing time | Up to 3 working days |
| Validity | 2 years or until the passport expires |
| Number of journeys | Multiple journeys while valid |
| Maximum visitor stay | Up to 6 months per visit |
| Children | Every child needs their own ETA |
| Passport | ETA is linked to the passport used for the application |
The current application fee is £20 per person. GOV.UK also warns travellers about unofficial websites that imitate government services and may charge additional fees for submitting an ETA application.
Important: An ETA is not a visa and does not give you permission to live or work in the UK. If your circumstances require a visa, you must apply for the appropriate visa instead.
Who Needs a UK ETA?
Whether you need a ETA depends mainly on your nationality, travel purpose and immigration status.
In general, eligible visitors who do not normally require a visa for a short trip to the UK may need an ETA before travelling. This includes travellers from places such as Europe, the USA, Australia and Canada, along with certain other nationalities.
However, nationality alone does not always determine the answer. Your individual circumstances matter, so it is best to use the official UK government checker before making travel arrangements.
What Can You Use a UK ETA For?
An ETA may cover certain short-term visits, including:
The activities permitted under an ETA are subject to UK immigration rules.
For example, an ETA does not normally allow you to take ordinary paid or unpaid employment for a UK company or work as a self-employed person. There are specific permitted exceptions, so travellers should check the rules that apply to their particular situation.
An ETA also cannot be used to remain in the UK for longer than six months.
Do Children and Babies Need a UK ETA?
Yes. Every traveller needs their own ETA, including babies and children.
If you are travelling as a family, don’t assume that one application covers everyone. Each traveller’s passport should be checked individually, and an ETA application should be made for each person who requires one.
A parent or another person may be able to submit an application on behalf of a child, depending on the application process.
Who Is Exempt From the UK ETA Requirement?
Not everyone travelling to the UK needs an ETA.
For example, you generally do not need one if you hold:
This can include people who already hold a UK visa, indefinite leave to remain, or settled or pre-settled status.
The key point is to check your circumstances before applying. If you already have valid UK immigration permission, submitting an ETA application may not be necessary.
What Do You Need to Apply for a UK ETA Online?
Before starting your ETA application, have the required information and documents ready. This can make the process easier and helps reduce the risk of entering incorrect information.
You will generally need:
The exact process depends on whether you apply through the mobile app or the GOV.UK website.
Your Passport Matters
Your ETA is linked to the passport used during the application.
That means you should apply using the passport you will actually use to travel to the UK. If you later receive a new passport, you cannot simply transfer the existing ETA to the new passport.
Use an Email Address You Can Access
Your application decision and 16-digit ETA reference number are sent by email. Make sure the address you provide is active and that you can access it after submitting the application.
Apply Through the Official GOV.UK Service
Search engines may display private websites that offer to complete an ETA application for you. Some may look similar to government websites and charge more than the official application fee.
For this reason, check that you are using the official GOV.UK service before entering your passport, contact or payment information.
How to Apply for a UK ETA
There are two official ways to submit a UK application:
Both are official application routes. The better option depends on which method is available and convenient for you.
Applying Through the ETA App
If your smartphone supports it, you can use the official ETA app. The application uses your phone’s camera to help scan your passport and capture the required facial image.
The app is available through Google Play and the Apple App Store.
UK ETA App: Step-by-Step
1. Open the official app
Download and open the genuine ETA application. Be careful not to confuse it with third-party travel or visa services.
2. Scan your passport
Use your phone to scan the passport you plan to use for your UK trip. The details should match the travel document you will present when travelling.
3. Complete the identity and photo checks
Follow the app’s instructions to capture the required facial image. Make sure the photograph meets the application’s requirements.
4. Enter your details
Provide the information requested, including your email address, contact details and answers to the relevant suitability or background questions.
Answer all questions accurately and truthfully.
5. Check the application carefully
Before submitting, review your name, passport information and other details. Mistakes can cause problems, and changing certain information after submission may require a new application.
6. Pay the £20 fee
The current ETA fee is £20. The available payment methods include credit or debit card, Apple Pay and Google Pay.
7. Wait for the decision
Do not travel until you have received confirmation that your ETA has been granted.
GOV.UK states that decisions are usually made within one day, although applications can take up to three working days.
How to Apply for a UK ETA Online
If you cannot or do not want to use the mobile application, you can apply for a ETA through the official GOV.UK website.
The online process requires you to provide the necessary passport information and photographs, including a facial image that meets the relevant digital-photo requirements.
This option can be useful if your device does not support the app or you prefer to complete the application through a web browser.
UK ETA Online Application Checklist
Before submitting your application, take a final moment to check the following:
A few minutes spent checking the details can help you avoid preventable mistakes.
UK ETA Common Mistakes to Avoid
The application itself is relatively straightforward, but several mistakes can create unnecessary problems.
Applying With the Wrong Passport
Your ETA is connected to the passport used in the application. Make sure you apply with the document you intend to present when travelling.
Assuming One ETA Covers a Family
It doesn’t. Each person who needs an ETA must have their own authorisation, including children and babies.
Using an Unofficial Website
Private websites may appear in search results and can charge additional fees. Always check that you are using the official GOV.UK service.
Travelling Before Approval
Submitting an application does not mean your ETA has been granted. Wait for confirmation before travelling.
Assuming an ETA Allows You to Work
An ETA is intended for permitted visits and does not provide general permission to work in the UK. If your planned activity falls outside the permitted conditions, you may need a different type of immigration permission.
UK ETA: Key Points to Remember
If you’re preparing for a UK trip, these are the essentials:
Final Check Before Your UK Trip
The most important step is to establish what immigration permission you need before travelling. An ETA is suitable only for eligible travellers and permitted activities; it does not replace a visa when a visa is required.
Use the official GOV.UK checker for your individual circumstances, apply with the passport you intend to travel on, and allow enough time for your application to be processed.
That preparation can make the difference between arriving at the airport ready to travel and discovering that you are missing the required travel authorisation.
How Much Does a UK ETA Cost?
The UK costs £20 per person when you apply through the official GOV.UK website or the ETA app. Once an application has been submitted, the fee is non-refundable.
If you’re travelling with family, remember that the charge applies to each individual who needs an ETA. Babies and children also need their own ETA where the requirement applies, so a family cannot submit a single application for everyone.
Avoid Unofficial UK ETA Websites
Finding the official application can be confusing because private websites may appear in search results alongside GOV.UK.
The genuine ETA service is available through the GOV.UK domain. Third-party companies may offer to complete the application on your behalf, often adding their own service charges to the government fee.
GOV.UK advises travellers to be cautious of websites that imitate official government services.
Tip: Go directly to GOV.UK when starting your ETA application rather than relying on an unfamiliar website from a search result.
How Long Does a UK ETA Application Take?
For most travellers, the ETA processing time is relatively short. GOV.UK says applicants will usually receive a decision within one day, although some applications can take up to three working days.
Even with a short expected processing time, it’s best not to leave your application until just before departure.
When Is the Best Time to Apply for a ETA?
Apply for your ETA before your planned travel date and leave enough time in case your application takes longer than usual.
After submitting the application, wait for the official email confirming that your ETA has been granted before travelling. An application that is still being processed should not be treated as travel authorisation.
If you have been waiting for three working days and still haven’t received a decision, check your spam or junk email folder first. If the confirmation is still missing, GOV.UK advises applicants to use UKVI’s online help for ETA-related enquiries rather than contacting them by telephone.
Travel tip: Don’t base your travel plans on the usual one-day processing time. Applying early gives you more time to deal with an unexpected delay.
How Long Does a ETA Last?
A ETA is normally valid for two years, or until the passport used for the application expires — whichever comes first.
While the ETA remains valid, it can generally be used for multiple journeys to the UK. However, an ETA does not give you unlimited permission to stay. For eligible visitor travel, it can support visits of up to six months, subject to the immigration rules and the purpose of the visit.
What Happens When Your Passport Expires?
Your passport is an important part of your ETA because the authorisation is electronically linked to the document used in your application.
If your passport expires or you obtain a new passport, your existing ETA does not transfer to the new passport. GOV.UK states that you need to apply for a new ETA when you change your passport.
Example: Suppose you receive your ETA in September 2026 but your passport expires in March 2027. Your ETA will end when the passport expires; it won’t remain valid until September 2028.
UK ETA Cost, Processing Time and Validity at a Glance
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| How much does a ETA cost? | £20 per person |
| Is the ETA fee refundable? | No, after applying |
| How long does an ETA take? | Usually within 1 day |
| Longest stated processing time | Up to 3 working days |
| How long is an ETA valid? | 2 years or until the passport expires |
| Can you make multiple trips? | Yes, while the ETA remains valid |
| What happens with a new passport? | A new ETA is required |
| Maximum visitor stay | Up to 6 months per visit, subject to the rules |
Key takeaway: Apply early, use the official GOV.UK service, wait for your approval email before travelling, and remember that your ETA is tied to your passport.
UK ETA Travel Rules: What You Can and Cannot Do
An approved ETA gives eligible travellers permission to travel to the United Kingdom, but it does not give you the same rights as a visa, residence permit or work authorisation.
Your visit must still follow the relevant UK immigration rules. For many eligible visitors, an ETA can support a stay of up to six months for permitted purposes such as tourism, visiting friends or relatives, certain business activities and short-term study.
Before you travel, make sure the activity you plan to carry out is allowed under the immigration route that applies to you.
What Can You Do With a UK ETA?
A ETA can generally be used for a range of short visits. Depending on your circumstances, these may include:
This makes an ETA suitable for many ordinary trips to the UK. However, it should not be viewed as a general immigration permission that allows you to carry out any activity you choose.
What Is Not Allowed With a UK ETA?
An ETA does not normally give you permission to:
There are limited exceptions for certain permitted activities. If your trip involves employment, study, paid work or another activity that goes beyond a typical visit, check the applicable GOV.UK immigration rules before travelling.
Does a ETA Guarantee Entry to the UK?
No. An approved ETA does not guarantee entry into Britain.
The ETA allows an eligible traveller to travel to the UK, but the final decision on whether you can enter is made at the UK border.
Border Force officers may check your passport, circumstances and the purpose of your visit as part of the normal border-control process.
It’s useful to think of the process in two stages:
ETA approval → permission to travel to the UK
Border checks → decision on whether you can enter
An approved ETA therefore does not remove the usual immigration and border checks.
What Should You Carry When Travelling?
Your ETA is electronically linked to the passport you used for the application, so you normally don’t need to print a separate ETA certificate.
Even so, keeping your confirmation email and ETA reference number accessible can be useful while travelling.
Most importantly, make sure you travel with the same passport linked to your ETA.
Can You Use One c for Multiple Trips?
Yes. A ETA can generally be used for multiple journeys while it remains valid.
An ETA normally lasts for two years, although it ends earlier if the passport linked to it expires. Every individual visit must still meet the relevant UK immigration requirements.
For eligible visitors, a stay can generally be for up to six months, depending on the purpose of the visit and the applicable rules.
Example of Multiple UK Trips
Suppose your ETA is granted in September 2026 and the passport connected to it remains valid throughout the full ETA period.
You could potentially use the same ETA for several separate trips during that period rather than submitting a new ETA application before every journey.
There is an important exception to remember: if your passport expires or you obtain a new passport, the existing ETA cannot simply be transferred to the replacement document.
What Happens to Your UK ETA If You Get a New Passport?
Changing your passport can affect your ETA because the authorisation is electronically connected to the passport used during the application.
If you replace that passport, your existing ETA does not transfer to the new passport. You will need to apply for another ETA using your new passport before travelling to the UK.
This is particularly important for people who travel regularly or renew their passports while an ETA is still within its two-year validity period.
The Rule to Remember
New passport = new ETA application
Don’t assume that showing an old ETA confirmation alongside a new passport will be sufficient.
Before travelling, check that the passport you’re taking with you is the same document associated with your current ETA.
How Can You Check Your ETA Status?
If you’ve already applied for an ETA, you can use the official GOV.UK checking service to find out whether you have an ETA and check its validity.
The status checker can be particularly useful if you’ve lost your confirmation email or can’t remember when your authorisation expires.
You may want to check your ETA status if:
What Do You Need to Check Your ETA?
The checking service uses information associated with your passport and ETA. Enter your details carefully so the system can locate the correct record.
If you’ve received a new passport since your previous application, don’t assume your previous ETA will automatically be linked to the replacement passport. A new passport requires you to deal with your ETA separately before travelling.
UK ETA Travel Rules: The Main Points
Before setting off for the UK, remember these key rules:
UK ETA Application Delayed: What Should You Do?
Most ETA applications are processed quickly, but some travellers may have to wait longer for a decision.
Official GOV.UK guidance says applications are usually decided within one day, although some can take up to three working days.
If your application is taking longer than expected, do not submit another application straight away. Check the status of your existing application first.
Check Your Email First
Before taking any further action, check all the places where your decision email could have arrived:
Search your email for messages relating to your ETA application.
You should also make sure that the email address you entered during the application was correct.
What If There Is Still No Decision?
If the stated processing period has passed and you still have not received a decision, use the official UK government help channels.
Avoid paying an unofficial website to investigate your application when you can contact the relevant government service directly.
Most importantly, do not submit duplicate applications simply because you have not received an email. A second application may not resolve the issue with your original application.
Common ETA Mistakes to Avoid
Many problems with travel applications come from simple mistakes rather than difficulties with the UK system itself.
Taking a few minutes to check your information carefully can help avoid unnecessary problems.
Using the Wrong Website
One common mistake is searching for a ETA and immediately choosing a private website.
Always start with the official GOV.UK service. Private companies may provide application assistance, but they can charge additional fees.
Be particularly careful when searching online for terms such as ETA application, ETA online or ETA cost. Check that you are using the official government service before entering your personal or passport details.
Entering Passport Details Incorrectly
Your passport information must be entered accurately.
Compare the details on your application with the passport you will actually use to travel. Check your name, passport number and other required information carefully before submitting the application.
Even a small error or mismatch can cause complications.
Applying With an Old Passport
If you have recently renewed your passport, use your new passport when applying for your ETA.
Do not use an old passport simply because its details are already saved or easier to find.
Your ETA is connected to the passport used in the application.
Forgetting Children
Parents sometimes assume that their own ETA covers their children. It does not.
Every traveller who needs an ETA must have an individual authorisation, including children and babies.
Make sure every family member’s travel requirements have been checked before departure.
Waiting Until the Airport
Although many applications are processed quickly, official guidance says some applications can take up to three working days.
Applying at the last minute therefore creates unnecessary risk.
The better approach is to apply well before your travel date and wait for confirmation before travelling.
UK ETA vs UK Visa: What’s the Difference?
A ETA and a UK visa are different types of immigration permission, and one cannot simply be used as a replacement for the other.
An ETA is intended for eligible travellers who can visit the UK under the relevant visa-exempt arrangements. A visa is required when a traveller’s nationality or circumstances mean formal visa permission is needed.
| Feature | ETA | UK Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Main purpose | Travel authorisation for eligible visitors | Formal immigration permission |
| Typical users | Eligible visa-exempt travellers | People who require a visa |
| Application | Online or app route | Depends on the visa category |
| Fee | £20 currently | Depends on the visa type |
| Validity | Generally 2 years or until passport expiry | Depends on the visa |
| Work rights | Restricted | Depends on the visa category |
| Entry guaranteed? | No | No |
The correct route depends on your nationality, purpose of travel and personal circumstances.
If you are unsure whether you need a ETA or visa, check the official UK government requirements rather than assuming that an ETA is enough.
UK ETA for Business Travellers
Business travellers should pay close attention to the activities they plan to carry out in the UK.
An ETA may be suitable for certain permitted business activities during a short visit, but it is not general permission to work in the UK.
For example, attending meetings or carrying out certain permitted business activities may be allowed under visitor rules. Taking ordinary employment in the UK is different and may require another immigration route.
If your trip involves working for a UK employer, receiving income from UK employment or carrying out activities outside the normal visitor rules, check the appropriate immigration requirements before travelling.
The key point is simple: having a ETA does not automatically give you the right to work in Britain.
UK ETA for Students and Short-Term Study
Some eligible travellers may use an ETA for certain short-term study activities.
However, the type and length of the course are important. An ETA should not be treated as a replacement for a student immigration route when a longer course or different type of study requires one.
Before travelling for education, check the relevant requirements based on:
If your course falls outside the permitted visitor arrangements, you may need a different type of immigration permission.
Travelling With Family:ETA Checklist
Family travel can require a little extra preparation because each person may need their own ETA.
Before leaving, use this ETA family checklist:
☐ Adult travellers have checked whether they need an ETA
☐ Each child has an individual ETA if required
☐ Passport details are correct
☐ Everyone is travelling with the passport used for their ETA application
☐ Confirmation emails have been received
☐ ETA validity has been checked
☐ Travel dates fit the permitted visitor rules
☐ Any planned business or study activities have been checked against the relevant immigration rules
Keeping these details together can make your final travel checks much easier and reduce the chance of problems at the airport.
What If Your ETA Is Refused?
Not every ETA application will be approved.
If your application is refused, read the decision information carefully and follow the instructions provided by the UK government.
Do not assume that submitting the same application repeatedly will solve the problem. The appropriate next step depends on the reason for the refusal and your individual circumstances.
In some cases, you may need to apply for a visa instead.
This is why it is important to provide accurate information and answer every question carefully when completing your ETA application.
Is the UK ETA Transferable?
No. A ETA is linked to the passport used for the application.
It is not a general travel document that can be transferred to another passport or used by another person.
For example:
Passport A → ETA A
If you replace Passport A with Passport B:
Passport B → New ETA required
If you receive a new passport, check your ETA requirements before your next journey rather than assuming that your existing ETA will automatically transfer.
Official UK ETA Websites and Resources
When applying for an ETA, checking your status or researching UK immigration requirements, use official government sources wherever possible.
Main ETA Information
The official GOV.ETA service provides information about the scheme and the relevant government services.
Apply for a ETA
Use the official UK government application service when submitting a new ETA application.
Check Your ETA
If you have already applied, use the official checking service to review your existing ETA information.
Check Whether You Need a UK Visa
If you are unsure whether an ETA or visa is the correct route, use the UK government’s visa and immigration checker.
Using official sources helps you avoid unofficial websites, unnecessary fees and misleading information when preparing for your trip.
ETA: Key Points to Remember
Before travelling, make sure you have:
Before travelling to the UK, it is important to complete a quick ETA pre-travel check. Ideally, review your travel authorisation and passport details 24–48 hours before your journey to help avoid problems at check-in or when you arrive in the UK.
Use this ETA checklist before your flight:
Taking a few minutes to complete these checks can help prevent travel problems caused by an expired ETA, incorrect passport details, or a recently renewed passport.
What to Do Before Your UK Flight
Your ETA is linked electronically to the passport you used for your application, so you should check your passport and ETA details together before travelling.
If you have recently renewed or replaced your passport, pay particular attention to this. An ETA linked to your previous passport does not automatically transfer to your new passport. Make sure you understand what action is required before travelling.
It is also a good idea to review the latest ETA requirements and travel information on GOV.UK, especially if several months have passed since you submitted your application. Immigration and travel requirements can change, so checking the official information shortly before your journey can help ensure you have the correct authorisation.
For the latest official information, visit the GOV.ETA page:
Final ETA Travel Check
Before heading to the airport, make sure your ETA, passport and travel plans all match. Checking these details in advance is one of the simplest ways to reduce the risk of avoidable travel delays or issues with your UK journey.
UK ETA 2026: Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
The UK ETA 2026 is an important travel requirement for many eligible visitors travelling to the United Kingdom. Before making your journey, check your nationality and travel circumstances to confirm whether you need an ETA or a UK visa. The official GOV.UK service confirms that an ETA currently costs £20 and can be used for multiple journeys, with stays of up to 6 months at a time, for up to 2 years or until the linked passport expires.
Applying for a ETA online or through the official ETA app is straightforward. You will need the passport you plan to travel with, an email address, a suitable photograph, your personal details and a payment method. The ETA is digitally linked to your passport, so you must travel using the same passport used for your application.
For the safest and most accurate information, always use the official GOV. ETA website rather than third-party application websites that may charge additional fees. Apply before travelling and wait for confirmation of your ETA. With the right ETA requirements, application details and eligibility information prepared in advance, you can complete the process smoothly and travel with greater confidence.
