Service

UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation)

Learn who needs a UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation), what it allows, required documents, and more!

Apply for UK ETA

Pick your nationality to begin. We'll handle the rest.

Planning to visit the UK? Before you travel, you’ll need a UK ETA—an easy online travel authorisation for visitors from visa-exempt countries.

What is UK ETA?

The UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) is an online approval needed for travelers from visa-free countries before visiting the UK. It lets you enter the UK for short stays like tourism, business, study, or transit.

What can you do with a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation?

  • Stay in the UK for up to 6 months per visit
  • Visit for tourism, business meetings, or short studies
  • Pass through the UK as a transit passenger
  • Make multiple visits within 2 years

UK ETA requirements

  • Valid passport from an eligible country
  • Digital copy of your passport’s photo page
  • Recent photo of yourself (headshot)
  • Personal details (name, birthdate, nationality, contact info)
  • Travel details (trip dates and purpose)
  • Apply online via smartphone or computer

Who needs UK ETA?

You must apply for a UK ETA if you:

  • Do not currently require a visa to enter the UK
  • Plan to visit the UK for up to 6 months
  • Are from one of the 55+ eligible countries including USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and EU countries
  • Are traveling for tourism, business, short-term study, or transit

How to apply for UK ETA in 6 steps

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to apply for a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)

  1. Start your application online.
  2. Enter all your personal details carefully.
  3. Upload a clear photo of your passport’s photo page and a recent headshot.
  4. Answer the questions about your trip and background.
  5. Pay the application fee by card or mobile pay.
  6. Save your confirmation, your UK ETA is linked to your passport.

Once approved, your ETA will be electronically linked to your passport. There's no need to carry additional documents when you arrive in the UK.

Why OlaVisa

Professional Guidance, Proven Results.

Risk Free

Should your visa application be denied, you won't incur any additional fees. Our Denial Protection gives you the confidence to apply completely risk-free.

Regulatory Compliance

As an official partner of Global Law (UK) and an IFZA-licensed entity in the UAE, we ensure every file is managed under strict regulated oversight.

Years of expertise

Leveraging our partner's 17 years of specialized experience, our expert team guides you through every step — every application receives a thorough professional review.

Visa destinations

Through our partner network, we secure approvals in over 60 countries. Specialised guidance to navigate the entire process from start to finish.

Explore all visa services →
Why OlaVisa

Professional guidance, proven results.

01

Risk Free

Should your visa application be denied, you won't incur any additional fees. Our Denial Protection gives you the confidence to apply completely risk-free.

02

Regulatory Compliance

As an official partner of Global Law (UK) and an IFZA-licensed entity in the UAE, we ensure every file is managed under strict regulated oversight.

17+

Years of expertise

Leveraging our partner's 17 years of specialized experience, our expert team guides you through every step — every application receives a thorough professional review.

60+

Visa destinations

Through our partner network, we secure approvals in over 60 countries. Specialised guidance to navigate the entire process from start to finish.

Backed by credentials that matter.
About OlaVisa → Explore all visa services →
Questions answered

UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) FAQ

Get answers to common questions about visa applications, requirements, and processes.

What is the UK ETA?
The UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) is a digital pre-travel clearance required for nationals from visa-exempt countries entering the UK for short visits.
How long is the UK ETA valid?
The UK ETA is valid for 2 years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. You can travel to the UK multiple times during this period.
How much does the UK ETA cost?
The UK ETA application fee is £16, payable online during the application process.
Do EU citizens need a UK ETA?
Yes, starting 2 April 2025, EU citizens must have a UK ETA for short visits to the UK.
How long does it take to get UK ETA approval?
UK ETA applications typically take around 3 days to process, though it may take longer if additional checks are required.

Ready to apply for UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation)?

Pick your nationality and destination above, or jump straight into the application.

Apply now →