UK ETA Application
Foreign nationals aiming to visit the UK for tourism, business, visiting family and friends, or transit and who qualify for the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) can submit their applications online in a simple and streamlined process.
The UK ETA application form is concise and user-friendly, designed for a swift completion within minutes. This digital method simplifies the application process considerably, allowing travelers to provide personal details corresponding to their official documents, execute a secure online payment, and obtain the authorized UK ETA directly in their email within a short processing time frame.
Who is Eligible for the UK ETA?
GCC nationals (Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, or the United Arab Emirates) are already eligible for an electronic travel authorisation (ETA) for their UK visit. Starting from November 27, 2024, citizens of the following 49 non-European countries:
Antigua and Barbuda
Agrentina
Australia
Bahamas
Aland Islands
will also be eligible for the UK ETA. Applications for the ETA can be submitted starting from November 27, 2024, for all travellers travelling on or after January 8, 2025.
Extension of UK ETA
The UK’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme is set for an expansion, with plans to encompass a wider range of travelers. By the end of 2024, the expectation is that the scheme will be mandatory for all travelers who typically do not need a visa for short stays in the UK. This expansion will include travelers from European countries as well.
UK ETA requirements
Eligible applicants for the UK ETA must submit some required documents in order to complete the application process. The following are the basic requirements for the ETA application UK:
Passport
All applicants must possess a valid passport at the time of application. The UK ETA is valid for two years and linked to the holder’s passport, so it’s recommended that the passport have an expiry date two or more years after entry into the UK.
Photograph
Applicants must submit a recent, passport-sized photograph with their application. All photographs must meet standard passport photo specifications, ensuring clarity and compliance with the guidelines.
Payment method
The UK ETA application fee can be paid online at the end of the application process. Applicants can pay using a valid credit or debit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay.
Email address
All applicants must include a valid working email address during the online application process. The email address will be used to inform the applicant of the application decision and should be monitored regularly for updates to the application status.
How to apply for a UK ETA?
The UK ETA online application can be completed in just a few straightforward steps. The application process consists of a few simple steps and can be completed quickly. The following are the basic steps all applicants will take to apply for a UK ETA:
1
Fill Out the Application Form
Applicants can complete the UK ETA application form online in just a few steps. Applications must be completed accurately with current, valid information.
2
Attach Required Documents
Applicants must attach all necessary documents to their UK ETA application form online, including a copy of their passport and a personal photograph. They must adhere to the official size and format guidelines for all digital attachments.
3
Pay the Application Fee
Applicants must pay the UK ETA fee in order to complete the application process. The application fee can be paid using a valid credit or debit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay.
4
Submit the Application
All applications for the UK ETA can be submitted online after all information has been uploaded. Applicants should ensure they have completed all application sections accurately before submitting.
How to Fill Out the UK ETA Application Form
Applicants must complete the United Kingdom ETA application form carefully. To facilitate a smooth process, it’s essential to provide accurate and comprehensive information. Here is a brief description of the critical application fields and instructions to successful navigate the UK ETA system:
1
Personal Information
Applicants must enter their full legal name, date of birth, and gender as per the passport. Ensure exact alignment with passport details to avoid discrepancies.
2
Passport Details
The passport information includes the passport number, country of issue, and expiry date. Verify these details for accuracy to prevent any issues during processing.
3
Contact Information
Contact details include a current home address, a valid email, and a contact number. The applicant’s email will be the primary communication channel for all ETA-related matters.
4
Travel Plans
Plans may include arrival and departure dates, as well as accommodation details in the UK if required. Clear travel plans help authorities understand the purpose and duration of the visit.
5
Occupation and Employer Information
Applicants must state their occupation and provide details about their employer, including organization name and contact information.
6
Health and Character Assessment
All health and criminal record questions must be answered truthfully. The UK government uses this to ensure border safety and security.
7
Travel History
Applicants must disclose past visits to the UK or other countries, especially mentioning any past visa refusals. This also the immigration authorities to assess travel patterns and previous reasons for UK visits.
8
Document Uploads
A recent passport-sized photo and a scanned copy of the passport bio page that meets the upload requirements must be uploaded.
9
Payment Details
The application fee can be paid online using a valid credit or debit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay.
10
Review and Submit
Before submission, applicants should thoroughly review the information they have entered. Inaccuracies can cause delays or rejections, so it’s essential to verify all answers.
Precision in completing the application is paramount to the application process. Ensuring accurate details enhances the likelihood of a successful application process, preventing delays and complications in obtaining the United Kingdom ETA visa.
Travel to the UK
Traveling to the UK with an ETA simplifies the entry processes
The UK ETA is electronically linked to the holder’s passport, emphasizing the importance of using the same passport during travel. At UK borders, the entry process is streamlined, with authorities verifying the ETA electronically. Holders can ensure a smooth entry by presenting the ETA-linked passport. This passport presentation alone suffices for the border authorities to confirm the ETA’s validity and facilitate a hassle-free experience through efficient and secure border checks.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to process a UK ETA application?
Processing times vary, but it typically takes around 3 working days. Applicants are advised to apply well in advance of their intended travel date to account for any unforeseen delays.
Is the ETA linked to a specific passport?
Yes, the ETA is electronically linked to the passport used during the application process. Holders of the UK ETA must ensure they travel with the same passport to avoid issues at the UK border.
Can I apply for an ETA if I've been denied a UK visa?
Yes, applicants can still apply even if they’ve been denied a UK visa. However, they must disclose previous visa refusals in the travel history section for accurate assessment.
Can I make changes to my ETA application after submission?
Once submitted, making changes may be challenging. Applicants are strongly advised to double-check all information carefully before submission to avoid inaccuracies.
How will my ETA be verified upon entry to the UK?
UK border authorities electronically check UK ETAs. The ETA holder should present their passport linked to the ETA at the border for a smooth and efficient entry.
What is the difference between the UK ETA and UK visa application process?
Both can be applied for online through a UK travel document application form. However, the application process for the UK ETA is far cheaper, simpler, and quicker than that for the UK visa. The latter requires, in addition to completing a lengthy and comprehensive UK visa application form online, a visit to a visa application center to submit biometric data.
We will assist you in every step
Apply for your UK Electronic Travel Authorization today. Simply fill out the online form to get started.
This website is designed to provide travelers with information and assistance in completing the necessary steps for the online Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) application, at additional professional fees. AL WAHBA LLC is a travel and tourism agency based in 2532 Grayson Cir, San Antonio, Texas , 78232 ,USA, licensed by the Government Of USA Department of Economy and Tourism. We are not affiliated with the United Kingdom government in any way. Applicants still have the option to apply for the UK ETA on their own via the official government portal at gov.uk without paying any additional professional fees.