Frequently Asked Questions

The UK ETA is a new mandatory digital permit designed to strengthen border security. It is required for travelers from countries that were previously visa-exempt (such as the USA, all EU nations, Canada, Australia, etc.). It is electronically linked to your passport and allows travel to the UK for tourism, business, family visits, or short-term study.

As of full implementation in 2026, all non-visa nationals (citizens who do not need a standard visa to enter the UK) must hold an approved ETA before boarding their flight or ferry. This applies to millions of travelers worldwide, including EU/EEA citizens. British and Irish passport holders are exempt.

Yes. Every single traveler, regardless of age (including newborn babies), must have their own individual, approved ETA linked to their specific passport. Children cannot be included on a parent's application.

No. An ETA is strictly for short-term visits. You are generally prohibited from doing paid work for a UK company, claiming public funds, or living in the UK for extended periods through frequent visits. If you intend to work, you must apply for an appropriate work visa.

You only need two things:

1. A valid biometric passport from an eligible country.
2. A recent digital photo of yourself (a clear smartphone selfie against a plain wall is sufficient; we handle the cropping).

The UK Home Office is very strict regarding character rules. If you have been sentenced to imprisonment for 12 months or more (regardless of when it occurred), your ETA will likely be refused, and you should apply for a Standard Visitor Visa instead. Minor offenses must be declared honestly for assessment. Lying on the application can lead to a 10-year ban.

Standard government processing is typically up to 3 working days. However, via our service, most straightforward applications are approved much faster. With our Super Urgent priority option, many clients receive their approval via email within 1-2 hours.

An approved ETA is valid for two (2) years from the date of issue, or until the expiry date of the passport it is linked to, whichever comes first. During this validity period, you can use it for multiple entries into the UK.

You can typically stay in the UK for up to 6 months (180 days) per visit as a standard visitor.

Yes, absolutely. The rules have tightened. Even for "airside transit" (where you remain in the international departure lounge of the airport to catch a connecting flight and do not pass through border control), you are now required to hold a valid UK ETA before boarding your initial flight.

Your ETA is digitally linked to your passport number, so airline staff and border officers should see it automatically when scanning your passport. However, we strongly recommend keeping a digital copy (screenshot/email) or a physical printout of the confirmation email handy, just in case of system delays or airline queries.

Yes. Eligible nationals (such as EU, US, Australian citizens aged 12+) holding a valid ETA can still use the automated eGates at UK airports for faster entry, just as before.

No. An ETA is permission to travel to the UK border. The final decision on whether to admit you lies with the UK Border Force officer at the port of entry. They may still ask questions about the purpose of your visit and check that you have sufficient funds and a return or onward ticket.