Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)

Last updated: 23/03/2026 09:16

An Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) permits you to travel to the UK.

An ETA must be obtained by those travelling to the UK as visitors who are permitted to enter without obtaining a Standard Visitor visa in advance. Learn more and get an ETA.

An ETA does not guarantee entry to the UK, and you still need to either see a Border Force officer or use an ePassport gate (check your eligibility on the Government website) to enter.

When entered at the border, your permission will be that of a Standard Visitor. Nationals of countries listed by UKVI MUST apply for an ETA prior to travel.

If you require an ETA and do not obtain one, you may be denied board or entry to the UK.

Where an ETA application is made, if successful, an ETA document is issued electronically. The current price for an ETA is £16, this will rise to £20 from 8 April 2026. Applications should take 3 working days to process but can take longer. We advise allowing a minimum of 2 weeks.

Once issued, your ETA lasts for 2 years. You can travel to the UK as many times as you want during that time. You will need to see a Border Force officer or pass through an eGate each time you enter. You may be asked about your reasons for entry each time, and may be asked to present evidence to support this. Please see our guidance regarding relevant evidence on our Standard Visitor Visa page. Permission to enter each time will be granted for a period of up to 6 months from the date of entry. See the information about the Standard Visitor Visa for conditions of leave.

Information about how to apply for the ETA can be found online on the relevant Home Office pages.

Contact us

If you need further guidance on what visa to apply for or have any questions, get in touch.

Our offices are open from 09:00 to 17:00, Monday to Friday.