Part of our complete UK ETA application guide. Not sure if you need one? Check our eligibility guide first.
Applying for a UK ETA is designed to be fast and user-friendly most people complete it on their smartphone in under 15 minutes. The official UK government recommends using the UK ETA mobile app as the quickest, most reliable method as mentioned in the uk ETA application guide
Step-by-Step Application Instructions
- Download the official UK ETA app — search “UK ETA” in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store, and confirm it’s published by the UK Home Office. You can also apply via GOV.UK on a computer.
- Create an account or log in — using your email address and a secure password.
- Scan your passport — use your phone camera to capture the biometric data page clearly. Your ETA is linked to this specific passport; if you renew it later, you’ll need a new ETA.
- Take a photo of yourself — good lighting, neutral expression, no sunglasses or hat.
- Enter personal and contact details — full name, date of birth, gender, and a valid email address for your confirmation.
- Answer security and eligibility questions — standard suitability and criminality questions.
- Pay the ETA fee — £16 (or £20 from 8 April 2026), by card or digital payment.
- Submit and wait for a decision — most applications process automatically within minutes. You’ll get a confirmation email, or a notice if manual review is needed.
How Long Does UK ETA Application Approval Take?
| Scenario | Typical timeframe |
|---|---|
| Most applications (app/online) | Within minutes (automatic) |
| Flagged for extra checks | Up to 3 working days |
| Complex cases (more info requested) | Potentially up to 14 days |
Recommendation: apply at least 72 hours (3 business days) before your flight, even though most approvals are near-instant.
For current fees, see our UK ETA cost & validity guide.
Mistakes That Could Ruin Your UK Trip
❌ Applying too late — manual reviews can take up to 3 working days or longer. Apply 3–5 working days before departure.
❌ Using the wrong passport — your ETA is linked to a specific passport. A new passport means a new ETA application.
❌ Assuming an ETA guarantees entry — it’s permission to travel, not a guarantee. Carry supporting documents (hotel bookings, return ticket, proof of funds) in case a border officer asks.
❌ Ignoring criminal history or past immigration violations — the Home Office shares data with other agencies. False or incomplete answers can get your ETA refused or cancelled.
❌ Not applying for children — every traveler, regardless of age, needs their own ETA. Airlines won’t board a child without one.
❌ Dual British nationals trying to use an ETA — you’re not eligible. Travel on a valid British passport or hold a Certificate of Entitlement.
What Happens If You Travel Without a UK ETA?
Since 25 February 2026, the “No Permission, No Travel” policy is strictly enforced.
At the airport: your passport is checked against the Home Office database before boarding. Without a valid ETA, you’ll be denied boarding — and the carrier may face financial penalties too.
At the UK border: in rare cases where a traveler reaches a UK port without one, Border Force will likely refuse entry, and you could be detained and removed at your own expense.
Can you get an ETA on arrival? No — all applications must be submitted and approved before you travel.
Where to Apply: Avoid Scams
Only two channels are official:
- UK ETA mobile app — published by the UK Home Office, on the Apple App Store or Google Play Store
- Official GOV.UK website
Scam alert: many third-party sites imitate the government portal, charging inflated fees with no added value — some even steal personal or payment data. Avoid any site calling itself an “ETA agent” or charging an “administrative fee,” and ignore unsolicited texts/emails about ETA “expiry.” Only trust GOV.UK or the official app.
