Which visitors to the UK need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)?

 

Which visitors to the UK need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)?

Announcement by Christine on Thu 21 Aug 2025

Each year the UK welcomes millions of visitors from around the world.

From holidays to short term study or business trips, the UK is a dynamic, diverse, and exciting destinationWe are making improvements to deliver a more streamlined, digital immigration system which will be quicker and more secure for the millions of people who pass through the UK border each year.

The introduction of Electronic Travel Authorisations (ETAs) is in line with the approach many other countries have taken to border security and helps prevent the arrival of those who present a threat to the UK.

Visitors to the UK need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) if they do not need a visa for short stays of up to six months, or do not already have a UK immigration status.Visitors who transit through the UK by crossing the UK border need an ETA, if required for their nationality.Applying for an ETA is quick and simple.

Visitors can find more information about applying for an ETA on GOV.UK

An ETA costs £16 and permits multiple journeys to the UK for stays of up to six months at a time over two years or until the holder’s passport expires – whichever is sooner.

For more information and regular updates on ETAs, please visit GOV.UK