Planning to visit London in 2026? There's a new requirement you need to know about.
Since early 2025, EU citizens visiting the UK are required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) – a digital pre-travel permission similar to the USA's ESTA. If you're planning a London trip, this £16 authorization is now mandatory.
The good news? It's quick, easy, and valid for 2 years. The bad news? Forget to apply and you won't board your flight.
This guide explains everything: who needs it, how to apply, costs, processing times, and common mistakes to avoid.
What is the UK ETA?
The Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is a digital permission to travel to the UK.
Think of it like the USA's ESTA or Canada's eTA – it's NOT a visa, but a pre-travel clearance that links to your passport electronically.
Why was it introduced?
The UK government introduced the ETA to strengthen border security, screen visitors before they travel, track who enters the country, and prevent illegal immigration. It's part of a global trend – most Western countries now have similar systems.
Who Needs an ETA?
NEED ETA (Most Tourists):
- ✓ All EU citizens (France, Germany, Italy, Spain, etc.)
- ✓ USA citizens
- ✓ Canada, Australia, New Zealand
- ✓ Japan, South Korea, Singapore
- ✓ Switzerland, Norway
- ✓ Most visa-free countries (60+ total)
This applies whether you're visiting for tourism, business meetings, visiting family/friends, or even just transiting through a UK airport!
DON'T NEED ETA:
- ✗ UK or Irish citizens
- ✗ Settled Status holders
- ✗ Pre-Settled Status holders
- ✗ Anyone with a valid UK visa
- ✗ British Overseas citizens
Important for EU citizens: Even though you could previously visit the UK freely, post-Brexit this changed. If you don't have Settled/Pre-Settled Status, you MUST apply for an ETA.
How to Apply for UK ETA
The application is simple and takes about 10 minutes.
Step 1: Prepare Documents
You need:
- Valid passport (6+ months validity)
- Email address
- Credit or debit card (£10 payment)
- Recent photo (optional, but recommended)
Step 2: Apply Online
Go to: gov.uk/apply-eta (official government website only!)
Fill in:
- Personal details (name, date of birth, nationality)
- Passport information
- Travel plans (approximate dates)
- Contact details
- Security questions (criminal record, immigration history)
Step 3: Pay Fee
Cost: £16 per person
Payment: Credit/debit card
Non-refundable (even if denied)
Note: Children and babies also need their own ETA (£16 each).
Step 4: Submit & Wait
- You'll receive a confirmation email immediately
- Decision usually within: 3 days
- Can take up to: 3 weeks (rare)
- Approval is sent via email
Step 5: Travel
- No physical document needed
- ETA is linked to your passport electronically
- Show your passport at UK border
- Valid for: 2 years or passport expiry (whichever comes first)
Costs & Validity
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Application fee (per person) | £16 (£20 from 8 April 2026) |
| Family of 4 | £64 (£80 from 8 April 2026) |
| Processing | FREE (included) |
| Validity | 2 years |
| Multiple entries | Unlimited |
| Stay duration (per visit) | Up to 6 months |
Comparison with other countries:
- USA ESTA: $21 (£16.50) – 2 years
- Canada eTA: CAD $7 (£4.20) – 5 years
- Australia ETA: AUD $20 (£10.50) – 1 year
- UK ETA: £16 – 2 years ✓ (middle range)
When to Apply
Recommended Timeline:
- Minimum: 3 days before travel
- Recommended: 2-4 weeks before your trip
- Safe option: 1-2 months in advance
Why apply early?
- Processing can be delayed
- If denied, you need time to apply for a visa instead
- Airlines check ETA before boarding
- Last-minute stress = not worth it!
Can you apply too early?
You can apply up to 3 months before your trip. The 2-year validity starts from approval, not from your travel date.
Example:
- Apply: January 1, 2026
- Approved: January 3, 2026
- Valid until: January 3, 2028
- Can visit London multiple times in those 2 years
Common Questions (FAQ)
Can I apply at the airport?
NO! You must apply online BEFORE traveling. No airport applications.
What if my ETA is denied?
You'll need to apply for a standard UK visitor visa (£115, more complex process).
Does ETA guarantee entry to the UK?
No. Border officers make the final decision, but approval means you're pre-cleared.
Do I need ETA for Ireland?
No. Ireland is separate (Common Travel Area). But if you fly via UK, you may need it.
Do I need ETA if I'm just transiting?
It depends. If you pass through UK passport control, YES you need an ETA. However, if you are transiting through Heathrow or Manchester without going through passport control, you do not currently need one.
Do children need their own ETA?
YES. All ages, including babies, need individual ETAs (£16 each).
I have Settled Status. Do I still need ETA?
NO! Settled or Pre-Settled Status holders don't need ETA.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
⚠️ MISTAKE #1: Using Scam Websites
Problem: Many websites charge £50-£100 for "ETA assistance"
Solution: ONLY use gov.uk/apply-eta (official site, £10)
Red flags: Websites ending in .com, .net, .org • "Guaranteed approval" claims • Prices over £15
✓ Other Tips:
- ✓ £16 fee (£20 from 8 April 2026)
- ✓ 10-minute online application
- ✓ Valid for 2 years
- ✓ Mandatory for most tourists (EU, USA, etc.)
- ✓ Settled Status holders exempt
Real Example
📖 Sofia (Spain, Tourist)
"I'm visiting London for 4 days in April 2026. Here's what I did:
- Applied online: February 20, 2026
- Paid £16 with credit card
- Received approval email: February 22 (2 days!)
- Saved email on phone
- Flew to London: April 15
- Showed passport at border – no problems
Easy! Just don't forget to do it. Total application time: 10 minutes."
Conclusion
The UK's Electronic Travel Authorization is simple:
- ✓ £10 fee
- ✓ 10-minute online application
- ✓ Valid for 2 years
- ✓ Mandatory for most tourists (EU, USA, etc.)
- ✓ Settled Status holders exempt
Don't let this small requirement stop your London plans. Apply 2-4 weeks before your trip, and you're good to go.
The process is straightforward – the UK government designed it to be quick and accessible. Just remember to use the official website (gov.uk), not third-party scam sites.
Start planning your London adventure!
About this Guide: This information is accurate as of March 2026. UK immigration rules can change – always verify current requirements on gov.uk before traveling. I hold Settled Status (obtained 2021), so I'm exempt from the ETA requirement. This guide is for new visitors navigating the system.