The UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme is now fully operational, with strict enforcement beginning 25 February 2026. This comprehensive guide explains what an ETA is, who needs one, how to apply, the £16 fee, and what the "no permission, no travel" policy means for visitors from 85 visa-exempt countries.
Understanding the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) Scheme
The UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme represents a fundamental shift in how UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) manages visitors who do not need a visa. Since its launch in October 2023, over 19.6 million ETAs have been granted, making it one of the largest digital border initiatives worldwide. The scheme aligns the UK with similar systems in the United States (ESTA) and Canada (eTA).
From 25 February 2026, the UK implements strict "no permission, no travel" enforcement. Airlines, ferry operators, and Eurostar will verify that all passengers have valid permission—either an ETA, eVisa, or UK immigration status—before allowing them to board. Travellers without valid permission will be denied boarding, regardless of their nationality's visa-exempt status.
What is the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)?
A UK ETA is a digital travel permission required for visitors from 85 visa-exempt countries. It costs £16, is valid for 2 years, and allows unlimited visits of up to 6 months each for tourism, business, study, or transit. An ETA is linked to your passport and must be obtained before travel.
The UK Electronic Travel Authorisation scheme was introduced to strengthen border security while streamlining the travel experience for millions of legitimate visitors. Unlike a Standard Visitor visa, an ETA is a simpler, faster permission that does not require supporting documents or a visit to a visa application centre.
What Does an ETA Allow You to Do?
An ETA permits the same activities as a Standard Visitor visa for stays up to 6 months:
- Tourism: Sightseeing, visiting attractions, and holidays across the UK
- Family visits: Visiting relatives and friends residing in the UK
- Business activities: Meetings, conferences, negotiations, and site visits (no employment)
- Short-term study: Courses up to 6 months at accredited institutions
- Transit: Passing through UK passport control to another destination
- Medical treatment: Private medical treatment for up to 6 months
- Creative activities: Performances, exhibitions, and cultural events
Who Needs a UK ETA?
Nationals from 85 visa-exempt countries need a UK ETA, including citizens of the EU, USA, Canada, Australia, Japan, and Gulf Cooperation Council states. British and Irish citizens are exempt, as are those with valid UK visas, residence permits, or frontier worker permits.
The ETA requirement applies to all nationals who previously could visit the UK without a visa. The scheme rolled out in phases: Gulf Cooperation Council nationals from February 2024, other non-European nationals from January 2025, and European nationals from April 2025. From 25 February 2026, enforcement becomes mandatory for all 85 eligible nationalities.
Countries That Require a UK ETA
For the complete list of ETA-eligible nationalities, check the official Home Office ETA guidance. Note that some countries like China and India are not ETA-eligible and require a Standard Visitor visa instead.
How to Apply for a UK ETA
Apply for a UK ETA using the official UK ETA app (iOS/Android) or at gov.uk/eta. You need a valid passport, digital photo, £16 payment, and answers to suitability questions. Most applications are approved automatically within minutes.
The UK ETA application process is designed to be quick and straightforward. Unlike a UK visa application, there is no need to visit an application centre or provide supporting documents. The entire process can be completed online or through the official smartphone app.
Step-by-Step ETA Application Process
- Step 1: Download the UK ETA app or visit gov.uk/eta
- Step 2: Scan your passport using your phone's camera or enter details manually
- Step 3: Take or upload a digital passport-style photo
- Step 4: Answer suitability and criminality questions
- Step 5: Provide your contact details and travel information
- Step 6: Pay the £16 non-refundable fee
- Step 7: Receive confirmation email with your ETA status
What is the UK ETA Cost?
The UK ETA costs £16 per person. This fee increased from the original £10 on 9 April 2025. The fee is non-refundable, even if your ETA application is refused or you do not travel. For more information on UK immigration costs, see our guide to UK immigration fees.
UK ETA Requirements and Application Questions
UK ETA requirements include holding a valid passport from an eligible country, no unspent criminal convictions for certain offences, no previous immigration violations, and no current UK visa refusal or ban. The application asks questions about criminality, terrorism, and character.
While the ETA application is simpler than a visa, you must still meet eligibility requirements. The Home Office uses the information you provide to conduct security checks against immigration and police databases. Providing false information can result in ETA refusal and potential deception bans.
What Questions Are Asked on the ETA Application?
The ETA application includes questions about your suitability to enter the UK:
- Criminal history: Have you been convicted of a criminal offence in any country?
- Terrorism: Have you ever been involved in, supported, or encouraged terrorist activities?
- Immigration history: Have you ever been refused a visa or entry to any country, or been deported?
- War crimes: Have you ever been involved in war crimes, genocide, or crimes against humanity?
- Employment: Do you currently have a job or are you a student?
- Contact details: Email address and phone number for correspondence
Can an ETA Be Refused?
Yes, ETA applications can be refused under the general grounds for refusal if you:
- Have serious criminal convictions that make your presence undesirable
- Pose a threat to national security or public order
- Have previous immigration breaches such as overstaying or illegal entry
- Are subject to a deportation order or exclusion from the UK
- Previously used deception in an immigration application
If your ETA is refused, you may be able to apply for a Standard Visitor visa with supporting evidence. See our guide on chances of getting a visa after refusal.
February 2026 Enforcement: No Permission, No Travel
From 25 February 2026, airlines and carriers must verify that all passengers have valid permission (ETA, eVisa, or UK status) before boarding. Travellers without valid permission will be denied boarding. This applies to all modes of transport including flights, ferries, and Eurostar.
The UK government has implemented a strict "no permission, no travel" policy beginning 25 February 2026. This represents the transition from a soft introduction period to full enforcement of the Electronic Travel Authorisation scheme. Carriers will face penalties for transporting passengers without valid permission.
What Happens If You Travel Without an ETA?
- Denied boarding: Airlines and carriers will not allow you to board without valid permission
- No refunds: You will not be entitled to flight or travel refunds
- Cannot legally travel: Travelling to the UK without permission is a criminal offence
- Border removal: If you reach the UK without permission, you face removal and potential entry ban
UK ETA for EU Citizens
EU citizens need a UK ETA from 2 April 2025. All 27 EU member states are included, plus Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein. EU citizens with UK Settled Status, Pre-Settled Status, or valid UK visas do not need an ETA.
The ETA requirement for European nationals marked a significant post-Brexit change. While EU citizens previously enjoyed free movement to the UK, they now require either an ETA for short visits or a visa for longer stays, work, or study. Those who secured EU Settlement Scheme status remain exempt.
EU Countries Requiring UK ETA
All 27 EU member states require an ETA: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland (exempt), Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, and Sweden.
Additional European countries requiring an ETA include: Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Monaco, San Marino, Vatican City, and Andorra.
UK ETA Exemptions: Who Does Not Need an ETA?
You do not need a UK ETA if you are: a British or Irish citizen (including dual citizens), hold a valid UK visa, have UK Settled or Pre-Settled Status, hold a Frontier Worker permit, or are transiting airside at Heathrow or Manchester without passing through UK border control.
Several categories of travellers are exempt from the ETA requirement. Understanding these exemptions helps avoid unnecessary applications and fees.
Complete List of ETA Exemptions
- British citizens: Including dual nationals with valid British passport or Certificate of Entitlement
- Irish citizens: All Irish passport holders under the Common Travel Area
- Valid UK visa holders: Including visitor visas, work visas, and student visas
- EU Settlement Scheme: Those with Settled Status or Pre-Settled Status
- Frontier Worker permit: EU/EEA/Swiss citizens working in the UK
- S2 Healthcare Visitor: Travelling for NHS-funded medical treatment
- Service personnel: NATO and visiting forces, diplomatic staff
- Operating crew: Aircraft crew operating into and out of the UK within 7 days
- Airside transit: Passengers not passing UK border control at Heathrow or Manchester (temporary)
- Are you a British or Irish citizen? → No ETA needed
- Do you have a valid UK visa or immigration status? → No ETA needed
- Are you from one of the 85 visa-exempt countries? → ETA required
- Are you transiting airside at Heathrow/Manchester only? → No ETA needed (temporary)
- Will you pass through UK border control? → ETA required
- The UK ETA costs £16 and is valid for 2 years or until your passport expires
- 85 visa-exempt countries now require an ETA, including all EU member states
- Full enforcement begins 25 February 2026—carriers will check for valid permission
- Apply through the UK ETA app or gov.uk/eta—most decisions are automatic within minutes
- British and Irish citizens, and those with valid UK visas or status, are exempt
Frequently Asked Questions About the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation
What is a UK ETA and how does it work?
A UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) is a digital permission required for nationals from 85 visa-exempt countries to travel to the UK. It is linked to your passport and allows multiple visits of up to 6 months each for tourism, business, family visits, or transit. The ETA costs £16, is valid for 2 years or until your passport expires, and must be obtained before travel.
How much does a UK ETA cost?
The UK ETA costs £16 per person. This fee increased from the original £10 on 9 April 2025. The fee is non-refundable, even if your application is refused or you decide not to travel. Each traveller, including children, requires their own ETA with individual payment.
Do EU citizens need a UK ETA?
Yes, EU citizens need a UK ETA from 2 April 2025. All 27 EU member states are included in the ETA requirement. The exception is Irish citizens, who are exempt under the Common Travel Area agreement. EU citizens with UK Settled Status, Pre-Settled Status, or valid UK visas do not need an ETA.
How long does a UK ETA take to process?
Most UK ETA applications receive an automatic decision within minutes. However, some applications require additional review and can take up to 3 working days. In rare cases involving complex circumstances, processing may take longer. The Home Office recommends applying before booking travel to allow time for any potential delays.
What happens on 25 February 2026?
From 25 February 2026, the UK implements strict "no permission, no travel" enforcement. Airlines, ferries, and train operators must verify all passengers have valid permission (ETA, eVisa, or UK immigration status) before allowing boarding. Travellers without valid permission will be denied boarding regardless of their nationality's visa-exempt status.
Do I need an ETA to transit through the UK?
If you pass through UK passport control during your transit, you need an ETA. If you remain airside (in the international transit area) at London Heathrow or Manchester airports without passing through border control, you currently do not need an ETA. This airside transit exemption is temporary and may change. Eurostar passengers always need an ETA as they pass through UK border control.
Can my UK ETA be refused?
Yes, ETA applications can be refused if you have serious criminal convictions, pose a security threat, have previous immigration violations, are subject to a deportation order, or have used deception in previous applications. If your ETA is refused, you may still be able to apply for a Standard Visitor visa with supporting documents explaining your circumstances.
How do I apply for a UK ETA?
Apply for a UK ETA using the official UK ETA app (available on iOS and Android) or through the gov.uk/eta website. You will need your valid passport, a digital photo, £16 for payment, and answers to questions about your criminal and immigration history. The app allows you to scan your passport and take your photo directly. Most applications receive an automatic decision within minutes.
For official information about the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation scheme, visit the GOV.UK ETA page or the Home Office ETA factsheet.