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.
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.
Ready to travel to the UK?
Apply for your UK ETA and get a quick decision.