| Visa Type | Visa Cost (USD) | Service Fee (USD) | Number Of Entries | Max Stay | Validity | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ETA | 23.00 | 69.00 34.50 | Multiple | 6 Months | 2 Years |
23.00
69.00 34.50
ETA
Multiple
6 Months
2 Years
The UK is a remarkable destination; whether you're exploring its historic cities, experiencing its vibrant culture, or embarking on a business venture, a UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is your digital passport to seamless entry. The UK ETA is a digital travel permit required for many foreign nationals visiting or transiting the United Kingdom without a visa. This simple online application grants you pre-approved travel clearance, allowing you to board your flight smoothly. If you are from a visa-exempt country, obtaining a UK ETA is essential for your trip. Upon application review, you'll receive an email confirmation tied to the passport used during the submission process. Valid for 2 years, your UK ETA allows for multiple entries within that period. However, if you renew or change your passport, you must reapply for a new ETA. While the UK ETA facilitates travel, it does not guarantee entry. Upon arrival, you must meet with a Border Force officer for final approval.
Different Visa Options for Travelling to the United Kingdom
There are various options for those wishing to visit the UK, depending on the purpose of their travel:
Individual visa categories may have distinct requirements and application procedures. For the most current information on eligibility and visa criteria, please consult the official UK government website.
Essential Documents for Your UK ETA Application
Before you apply for a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), ensure you have the following documents and information ready:
Valid Passport: Your passport needs to be valid for a minimum of 6 months beyond your planned departure date from the UK. Ensure it is the same passport you will be using for travel.
Passport Photo: You will need a digital copy of your passport photograph.
Applicant Photo: A clear photograph of the applicant is also necessary.
Payment Method: You must have a working credit or debit card for the ETA fee. As an alternative, you may utilise Google Pay or Apple Pay.
Proof of Funds: Be prepared to provide evidence of sufficient funds for your stay, such as bank statements or credit card statements.
By having all these documents ready, you will ensure a smooth application process for your UK ETA.
The UK Government is launching the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme to enhance border security and simplify the travel process. The ETA is a mandatory digital authorisation needed for entry into the UK.
This initiative is part of the UK’s commitment to modernise border control while ensuring a seamless travel experience without compromising security standards. The ETA is primarily designed for travellers who do not require a visa for short visits or lack UK immigration status.
Currently, the ETA scheme is available only to select nationalities, with others expected to gain access later. The ETA permits multiple entries into the UK and is valid for 2 years or until your passport expires, whichever occurs first.
In the future, the scheme will extend to visitors from Europe, Australia, the US, Canada, and other countries that do not require a visa for short stays. The UK Government will ensure that eligible nationalities have ample time to prepare for the rollout of the ETA.
From 27 November 2024:
Citizens from the countries below can apply for an ETA. They can begin travelling with an ETA from 8 January 2025:
Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Australia, The Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Botswana, Brazil, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Grenada, Guatemala, Guyana, Hong Kong SAR (including British nationals overseas), Israel, Japan, Kiribati, Macao SAR, Malaysia, Maldives, Marshall Islands, Mauritius, Mexico, Micronesia, Nauru, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Palau, Panama, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, Peru, Samoa, Seychelles, Singapore, Solomon Islands, South Korea, St Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Taiwan (with a passport that includes a national ID card number), Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Tuvalu, United States, Uruguay.
From 5 March 2025:
Nationals from the following regions can apply for an ETA, with travel permitted from 2 April 2025:
Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Vatican City.
As of 2024, the following nationalities typically require a Standard Visitor visa to travel to the United Kingdom:
Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, Angola, Bangladesh, Belarus, Burundi, Cameroon, China, Congo, Congo DR, Cyprus (northern part), Dominica, Egypt, El Salvador, Eritrea, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Gambia, Georgia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Honduras, India, Iran, Iraq, Ivory Coast, Jamaica, Jordan, Kenya, Kosovo, Lebanon, Lesotho, Liberia, Libya, Malawi, Moldova, Mongolia, Myanmar, Namibia, Nepal, Nigeria, North Macedonia, Pakistan, Palestinian Territories, Russia, Rwanda, Senegal, Serbia, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Africa, South Sudan, Taiwan, Tajikistan, Thailand, Togo, Tunisia, Turkmenistan, Ukraine, Uzbekistan, Venezuela, and Zambia.
Applying for a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is quick and easy. Follow these steps:
Tip: You may need extra documents like an invitation letter or proof of funds, depending on your visit.
If you qualify for a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), you can use it as a substitute for a visa for the following purposes:
While the ETA offers various benefits, there are several activities you cannot engage in:
Cost:
The fee for obtaining a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) depends on the applicant's nationality and the selected processing speed.
Fee Verification Tool: Utilize our fee verification tool (Scroll to the top to use the tool) to check applicable fees based on your requirements.
Processing Time:
Additional Fee:
Important: Ensure you meet all eligibility requirements and carefully verify your documents to avoid application rejection.
The UK Standard Visitor Visa allows individuals to visit the UK for tourism, business, short-term study, medical treatment, or other permitted activities, typically for up to 6 months. However, activities like working, claiming public funds, or living in the UK for extended periods are not allowed.
Applicants must demonstrate their intent to leave the UK at the end of their visit, have sufficient funds for their stay, and ensure they meet all eligibility requirements. Those who travel frequently can also opt for Long-term Visitor Visas, valid for 2, 5, or 10 years, though each visit remains capped at 6 months.
The UK Student Visa, part of the "Student Route" introduced in 2020, allows international students to study in the UK at accredited institutions. To be eligible, applicants must receive a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from their institution, show that they can communicate in English and that they have the means to support themselves.
This includes tuition fees and living costs, which vary based on location. Additionally, applicants must pay an Immigration Health Surcharge per year, providing access to the National Health Service (NHS).
Students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time, and after completing their degree, they may apply for a Graduate Route Visa, allowing them to work and reside in the UK for a maximum of two years (three years for PhD holders).
The UK Transit Visa is designed for individuals passing through the UK on their way to another destination. There are two main types: the "Direct Airside Transit Visa" (DATV) for those staying in the international transit area of the airport without passing through UK immigration, and the "Visitor in Transit Visa" for those who need to pass through UK border control.
Usually, a transit visa is good for 48 hours. Travellers must show proof of onward travel and have the necessary documents for their final destination.
Disclaimer: Although this information was last updated in September 2024, we recommend verifying with the appropriate agencies, embassies, and airlines to ensure complete accuracy regarding your travel plans.
Yes, your UK ETA allows for multiple entries within its 2-year validity period. This means you can visit the UK as many times as you need within that timeframe. However, if you renew or change your passport, you'll need to reapply for a new ETA
If your ETA expires while you're in the UK, you may be able to extend your stay under certain circumstances. However, it's essential to contact the UK immigration authorities in advance to discuss your options and avoid any potential issues.
While it's technically possible to apply for a UK ETA on the day of your flight, it's strongly recommended to apply well in advance to avoid any unexpected delays or complications. The processing time for ETA applications can vary, and it's always better to be prepared.
While a UK ETA is a pre-approval for travel, it doesn't guarantee entry into the UK. Upon arrival, you'll still need to go through border control and present your ETA to the immigration officer. They may ask for additional documents or information to verify your eligibility to enter the country.
Yes, you can use your UK ETA for both tourism and business purposes. However, it's important to ensure that your activities align with the terms and conditions of your ETA and that you have any necessary documentation to support your business activities.
If you lose your UK ETA, you can usually reprint it from the Visacent website. However, it's always a good idea to have a digital copy saved on your device or a printed backup.
With a UK ETA, you are able to bring your pet into the country. However, there are specific requirements and regulations that must be followed, including vaccinations, health certificates, and quarantine. It's crucial to research these requirements well in advance of your trip.
There is no minimum age requirement for obtaining a UK ETA. However, if you are travelling as a minor, you may need to supply extra documentation, such as a letter of permission from your parents or guardians.
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