Apply for your UK ETA online

Expert-reviewed UK ETA application. No app required with iVisa.

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United Kingdom ETA requirements

All visa-exempt travelers must obtain a UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) before entering the United Kingdom for tourism, visiting family and friends, business, transit, or short-term study.

As of February 25, 2026, the UK has fully enforced this digital requirement for all non-visa nationals, including citizens of the United States, Canada, Australia, and the European Union.

Required documents for the UK ETA

To apply for a UK ETA, you typically need the following documents and/or information:

Valid biometric passport (valid for the entire duration of your stay)
Recent passport-style photograph (digital)
Valid email address
Travel details (flight or ferry information)

Requirements may vary depending on nationality.

United Kingdom ETA pricing and validity

UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)

Prices starting from $100.99

Valid for 2 years after issued

Multiple entry

Stay up to 186 days per entry

Get it as fast as 15 minutes

Fast facts

Average time it takes to apply

5 minutes

iVisa approval rate

99%

Main reason for denials

Invalid photo or suitability questions

Our UK ETA application process

How to apply for your UK ETA with iVisa

Complete the online application

Check if you need the UK ETA and fill out your details using our simplified process on our website or through our app.

We review your application

Select your preferred processing speed, pay securely with one of our flexible payment options, and upload the required documents. Our experts will review your application and catch any mistakes before submitting.

We submit it for government processing

We are not the UK government, but will submit your application to them on your behalf.

Receive your UK ETA

Once approved, you’ll receive an email confirmation. Your ETA is digitally linked to your passport, allowing you to travel to the UK.

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Why choose iVisa?

Applying for United Kingdom ETA on your own can be confusing and time-consuming. iVisa simplifies the process, reduces errors, and gives you peace of mind.

Benefit	Applying by yourself	iVisa
Simple, easy forms	Not included	Included
24x7 support from visa experts	Not included	Included
Error detection to prevent rejections	Not included	Included
World's easiest passport scan	Not included	Included
Multiple payment methods	Not included	Included

1.4M happy customers

24/7customer support

70,000+ reviews

10 years of experience

98% visa approval rate

Verified United Kingdom ETA reviews

Travelers to United Kingdom rated this product a 4.8 out of 5 based on 623 reviews.

4.8 out of 5

Glenda Hamilton

June 29, 2026

"Great service. Almost unbelievable"
Jennifer

June 28, 2026

"The application was so easy"
Elena

June 18, 2026

"Very quick service"
Ion Balotescu

June 9, 2026

"Thanks so much"
Cheryl Hamilton

May 13, 2026

"IVisa provides such quick turn around in completion of necessary travel documents - even when you make a mistake - that I was actually able to complete a critical document in only a few hours! I was happily shocked!"
Hazel Jackman

May 13, 2026

"Keep up the good work"
Suraish Singh

May 5, 2026

"Luis is a super guy who will guide you through the process with ease. I could not get my laptop camers to take my picture and Luis chose another option via Whatsapp and walked me through the whole process without a problem."
Robin Ingram

April 6, 2026

"Streamlined operation. Easy to fill out and quick turnaround on approval."
Sharifah Masniah

March 25, 2026

"Great, simple & fast"
Julie Stufkens

June 28, 2026

"Easy to follow but additional costs added to actual visa"

See all 623 reviews

Frequently asked questions about the United Kingdom ETA

Do I need a UK ETA or Standard Visitor Visa to travel to the United Kingdom?

Citizens from "non-visa national" countries (such as the US, Australia, and EU nations) require a UK ETA. If you are from a "visa national" country, you must still apply for a Standard Visitor Visa.

Important: British and Irish citizens do not need an ETA. If you hold a valid UK visa or EUSS status, you are also exempt.

How will I receive the UK ETA?

The authorization is digitally linked to your passport. Once approved, you will receive an email confirmation. There is no physical sticker. However, it is highly recommended to keep a digital copy on your phone or a printout, as carriers will verify your permission to travel before you board.

How long can I stay in the United Kingdom with an ETA?

You can stay for up to 180 days (6 months) per visit. The ETA itself is valid for two years (or until your passport expires), allowing for multiple entries during that period.

How long does UK ETA processing take?

Most applications are processed quickly, often within minutes. However, the Home Office recommends applying at least 3 working days before your trip to account for any manual reviews. iVisa provides expedited processing to ensure your document is ready as fast as 30 minutes.

Do children/minors need a UK ETA?

Yes. Every traveler, including infants and children, must have their own individual ETA. You can manage applications for your entire family together in one session on the iVisa platform.

Do I need the UK ETA to transit in the United Kingdom?

Yes, if you pass through UK Border Control. Eligible visitors who take connecting flights and pass through passport control (for example, to change airports or collect baggage) must have an ETA.

As of 2026, airside transit passengers at specific airports like Heathrow who do not pass through border control may not currently need one, but rules are subject to change. We recommend checking the latest transit requirements before booking.

What happens if my UK ETA application is denied?

If denied, you cannot board your flight. You will receive a notification from the Home Office. You may be able to re-apply if the denial was due to a simple typo. However, if the refusal was based on suitability or criminal history, you may need to apply for a Standard Visitor Visa instead. iVisa offers denial protection to support you in these cases.

What are the most common reasons a UK ETA application is denied?

The most common reasons include uploading a photo that doesn't meet standards, providing an incorrect passport number, or failing to disclose relevant history. iVisa’s experts check these details specifically to prevent rejections.

Can I extend my UK ETA?

No. An ETA cannot be extended. If you wish to stay longer than 6 months or change your status to work or study, you must apply for a specific visa from outside the country.