UK's New Tourist ETA:
What You Need to Know (2026)

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):

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:

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:

• A valid passport (the one you will travel with)
• Email address
• Credit or debit card, Apple Pay or Google Pay (£20 payment)
• A photo of your face (you can take it during the application)

Step 2: Apply Online

Go to: gov.uk/eta/apply (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

Note: Children and babies also need their own ETA (£20 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)	£20
Family of 4	£80
Processing	FREE (included)
Validity	2 years
Multiple entries	Unlimited
Stay duration (per visit)	Up to 6 months

When to Apply

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 well before your trip. Just remember that 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 instead, which is more expensive and takes longer. Check the current fee on gov.uk.

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 (£20 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

Real Example

Conclusion

The UK's Electronic Travel Authorization is simple:

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!