About the ETA

What is the UK ETA

You apply for the UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) before you travel. It does not replace your passport, and it is not a visa.

UK ETA Guide

It is not a visa

The ETA is a pre-authorisation for travellers who do not need a visa for the UK. The check happens before boarding: without an ETA, the airline can refuse to carry you.

Unlike a visa, there is no appointment and no interview. Everything is done online.

Linked to your passport

The authorisation belongs to the passport you applied with. If you get a new passport, you must apply again — even if there is time left on the 2 years.

There is nothing to print: at the border, the same passport is enough.

Who needs one

Travellers from visa-free countries, which includes Australia and New Zealand, whether for tourism, visiting family, business or transit.

Children and infants each need their own ETA.