- What is an ETA?
- Do I need an ETA to study in the UK?
- Who does not need an ETA?
- How long is an ETA valid?
- How to apply for an ETA
What is an ETA?
An Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is digital permission to travel to the UK. It is not a visa and does not guarantee that you will be allowed to enter the UK.
An ETA allows eligible travellers to travel to the UK for visits of up to 6 months.
You can check whether you need an ETA or visa on GOV.UK.
You can also watch the what is an ETA video
Do I need an ETA to study in the UK?
ETA are required only by non-visa nationals who are coming to the UK for up to six months as a visitor (not as a spouse or civil partner visitor) or for up to three months as a creative worker. Students who are coming to the UK to study for less than 6 months and are entering the UK as a Visitor and have not applied for a visa before they travel, will require an ETA in order to enter the UK.
If you are a national of a country that does not appear in the visa national list you will require an ETA.
Who does not need an ETA?
You do not need an ETA if you have:
- a British or Irish passport
- a visa, including a Student visa
- permission to live, work or study in the UK.
Check when you do not need an ETA on the Gov.UK website.
How long is an ETA valid?
An ETA normally allows multiple journeys to the UK for stays of up to 6 months at a time.
It is valid for 2 years or until the passport linked to your ETA expires, whichever happens first.
You must travel using the same passport you used to apply for your ETA.
How do I apply for an ETA?
You can apply:
An ETA currently costs £20. Be aware that other websites may charge more to apply.
The Home Office recommends applying at least 3 working days before you travel. Most applicants currently receive an automatic decision in minutes when applying through the UK ETA app, but some applications may need further review.
The applicant must apply using the passport with which they plan to travel using the ETA. If they use a different passport for travel, the ETA is invalid and does not confer permission to travel.
Each person travelling needs their own ETA, including babies and children.
You can watch a video on applying for an ETA.