Electronic Travel Authorisation

The UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is digital pre-travel permission for nationals of visa-exempt countries visiting the UK for up to 6 months. Required since February 2026, it covers tourism, family visits, permitted business activities, and short-term study for travellers who do not otherwise need a UK visa.

An ETA costs £20, is valid for 2 years or until passport expiry, and allows multiple entries. Most decisions arrive within minutes; up to 3 working days is the official outer limit. Work is not permitted, there is no PR pathway, and each traveller — including children — needs a separate ETA.

This visa is ideal for nationals of the 80+ qualifying countries making short leisure, family, or business trips to the UK who do not hold a UK visa or settled status.