04 Mar What is Electronic Travel Authorisation and how to apply for it
In November 2023, the government launched an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme, which enables visitors to travel to the UK with digital permissions.
The scheme is currently only open to nationals of Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan. They could apply for the ETA from 1 February 2024 for the planned travel date to the UK on or after 22 February 2024.
Other nationalities cannot and do not need to apply yet, but the Home Office will keep adding eligible nationalities to the list. People also do not need an ETA if they have either:
-A UK visa
-Permission to live, work, or study in the UK
-A British or Irish passport
An ETA costs £10 for each applicant and will be issued as a multiple entries permit, valid for two years or until the holder’s passport expires—whichever is sooner.
Applicants could submit applications via the ETA app or using the UKVI online form. They will need to provide contact and passport details, scan their faces, and provide a valid photo. There will also be some questions that require answers.
The standard processing time for an application is three working days, but the majority of applications so far have been decided within hours.
Once the application is approved, the applicant will receive an email confirmation, which will be linked to their passport.
An ETA does not guarantee entry to the UK as applicants still need to meet the Border Force officer to enter the UK. In the event of an ETA application refusal, the individual will need to apply for a visitor visa if they wish to seek permission to come to the UK.
Contact Our Immigration Team
For expert advice regarding any aspect of the UK visa application, please contact our immigration team on 0203 384 3075
