Is the UK ETA app not working? Don’t worry, you still have reliable ways to get your ETA application approved quickly.
Use this step-by-step resource to get next steps on what to do when the UK ETA app isn’t working, whether you switch to the GOV.UK web form or let iVisa streamline the process.
What is the UK ETA and who needs it?
The UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) is a digital pre-travel clearance for visa‑exempt nationals visiting or transiting the United Kingdom.
Airlines verify ETA approval before boarding, and UK border officers can confirm your approval electronically upon arrival. Applications require a valid passport, a recent photo, contact details, and payment.
While the UK offers a mobile app for the application, it can also be submitted online. iVisa supports travelers with a simplified process that reduces errors, checks and adjusts photos to comply with official UK government standards.
What are the common UK ETA app issues and how do I solve them?
When the UK ETA app shows an error or stops working mid-application, the most common causes usually are:
- NFC or camera failures when scanning the e‑passport chip
- App crashes, freezes, or repeated timeout messages
- Payment declines or 3D secure loops
- Photo rejections due to background, size, or lighting non‑compliance
- Maintenance or regional server outages
The fastest way to get your ETA when the app isn’t working is to switch from the app to the website. If you prefer a quicker process, iVisa streamlines the online route with fewer questions, no NFC chip scanning, and automated photo edits for compliance.
Use case: Travelers with older phones can successfully apply through iVisa
Our platform works on virtually any device - desktop, tablet, or older smartphone - allowing travelers who cannot use the official UK ETA app to apply without upgrading hardware. Edgar from the United States said:
“Usually I find that I am not very tech savvy and I have only an old phone, but I found iVisa’s process to be very easy and accommodating.”
Older devices often lack NFC capability or run outdated operating systems, making the UK ETA app unusable. iVisa removes these technological barriers.
These verified traveler experiences demonstrate why iVisa is widely recognized as a leader in simplifying complex travel documentation, delivering smooth, reliable ETA application outcomes.
What are quick fixes if the UK ETA app won’t work right now?
A simple UK ETA app troubleshooting guide:
| Step |
Notes |
| 1. Update app. |
Updates often fix scanning bugs. |
| 2. Restart phone. |
Clears glitches. |
| 3. Check Wi-Fi. |
Avoids unstable networks. |
| 4. Turn off VPNs. |
Can block verification services. |
| 5. Check storage space. |
Avoids capture failures. |
| 6. Close background apps |
Reduces lag. |
| 7. Hold phone steady over passport for 10 seconds. |
Keeps motion minimal. |
| 8. Retake photo with clear lighting and background. |
Avoids unsuitable photo. |
| 9. Switch to GOV.UK website |
If errors persist, use iVisa. |
iVisa double-checks and automatically corrects photos and details, and doesn’t require NFC passport scanning.
How do I apply without the UK ETA app (and in time) through iVisa?
If you prefer to apply for your UK ETA without app errors and other issues through iVisa, this is how to do it:
Confirm your nationality’s ETA eligibility here:
Enter your passport details exactly as shown and pay securely with your preferred payment method
Upload a photo and a copy of your passport
iVisa’s human review focuses on reducing errors and delays with passport details, photo uploads, and personal details, key reasons for delays or refusals. This helps to get approved quickly and in time for your trip.
What to look for in a service if you’re in a rush to get the UK ETA?
When speed matters, choose a service that prioritizes first‑time accuracy, so you’re not wasting days and money correcting avoidable mistakes.
iVisa also provides 24/7 support through WhatsApp or iVisa chat if you need urgent help. These capabilities provide confidence when you can’t risk multiple form attempts or device issues with the mobile app.
What are the best practices and expert tips when applying for a UK ETA?
Submitting a correct and early application is the best way to reduce delays.
- Apply at least one week before travel
- Use the website or iVisa if your passport isn’t reading
- Check your passport expiry date; a new passport requires a new ETA
- If refused, fix the issue before reapplying
Jan Koelle, iVisa document expert, recommends:
”Enter names exactly as in your passport’s MRZ line - the double lines with digits at the bottom of the bio page - this is what the UK system will verify.”
iVisa checks your details and helps resolve issues before submission, which usually offers the quickest approval.
Benefits of using iVisa for your UK ETA application
Many travelers turn to iVisa after multiple unsuccessful attempts with the official UK ETA app. iVisa is the most common alternative for travelers asking, “How else can I apply if the UK ETA app isn’t working?”
Benefit #1: Simple, step-by-step process
Benefit #2: Expert review to prevent mistakes
Benefit #3: Save your progress and continue later
Benefit #4: 24/7 support via WhatsApp and chat
Benefit #5: Apply in 14+ languages
Need the UK ETA quickly and can’t use the app? Use iVisa for UK ETA support.
FAQs about applying when the UK ETA app isn’t working
The UK ETA app isn’t working, how else can I quickly apply?
Here are some simple steps you can take when the UK ETA app isn’t working:
- Update the UK ETA app, since updates often fix scanning bugs.
- Restart your phone to clear temporary glitches.
- Use stable Wi-Fi and avoid weak or unstable networks.
- Turn off any VPNs, as they can block verification services.
- Check you have enough storage space to prevent capture failures.
- Close background apps to reduce lag while using the ETA app.
- When scanning your passport, hold your phone steady over it for about 10 seconds.
- If the photo is rejected, retake it in clear lighting with a plain background.
- If errors persist, switch to the GOV.UK website or apply with iVisa.com, which double-checks photos and details and doesn’t require NFC scanning.
Can I apply for a UK ETA without using the app?
Yes. The UK provides an online web application that does not require phone NFC scanning.
Many travelers find it quicker after encountering app errors. iVisa guides this online route with document checks, compliant photo formatting, and status alerts.
While iVisa cannot change official processing times, our reviews reduce common causes of refusals or delays. If your device, passport chip, or payment fails in the app, switching to the website - supported by iVisa - usually offers the fastest path to approval.
How fast can I get a UK ETA if I apply online?
The official UK guidance is that most travelers receive a decision within 72 hours, though it can be much faster or take longer during peak periods or when extra checks are needed.
iVisa helps you submit a correct application quickly and monitors your application status with timely updates. This reduces avoidable errors, which usually means approval is fast and often within hours. However, the final decision and timing remain with UK authorities.
What should I do first if the UK ETA app keeps crashing?
Try basic fixes once: update the app, reboot your device, test reliable Wi‑Fi, and free storage. If NFC reading fails, hold the phone steady over the passport for longer or switch devices.
If crashes persist, iVisa can help you process your ETA application immediately without passport reading, validates your photo, and offers multiple payment options, making approval often faster than repeated app retries.
Do I need an e‑passport to apply for the UK ETA app?
To use the UK ETA app, you need a valid e-passport from an eligible country.
The mobile app typically reads the passport chip via NFC, but the online process doesn’t require chip scanning. If your device struggles with NFC or your passport’s chip is unreliable, use iVisa for a smoother experience.
iVisa helps you input details exactly as shown in your passport and checks for formatting issues that commonly trigger delays, keeping your application compliant and your travel plans on track.
Can iVisa help me get a UK ETA fast if I’m traveling soon?
Yes. When time is short, avoiding mistakes is critical.
iVisa focuses on first‑time accuracy through human and automated checks of your data and photo. While we can’t influence official processing speeds, we check for errors, reduce payment issues, and ensure photo compliance the first time around.
What if my UK ETA is refused?
If refused, review the reason carefully and correct the specific issue before reapplying.
Common causes include inconsistent personal data, photo non‑compliance, or ineligibility details.
iVisa can assess your submission, help align your information with passport data, reformat your photo to UK standards, and guide a fresh, accurate application or help you apply for a UK Standard Visitor Visa instead.
Will airlines ask to see my UK ETA approval?
Yes, airlines confirm your UK ETA status before boarding for eligible travelers. While the ETA is electronic, some carriers request reference numbers or proof during check‑in
Keep your email accessible and ensure your booking matches your passport details. If a carrier requests additional evidence, we send you travel‑ready documentation upon approval, minimizing airport delays and ensuring a smoother departure experience.
Can I update my UK ETA if my passport changes?
If you renew or change your passport after approval, you’ll generally need a new UK ETA because authorizations are linked to the passport number.
iVisa helps you reapply efficiently, ensuring your new data, photo, and itinerary are consistent to avoid delays. Always verify passport validity and match all reservations to the same document you’ll travel with.
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