The UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a digital permission to travel that visa-exempt visitors need before they fly to the UK. It is linked to your passport, allows multiple short visits over its validity period (around two years, or until your passport expires), and is required even for transit through some UK airports. As of 2026 it applies to most visa-exempt nationalities, including European travellers.
Who needs one
If you do not need a visa for a short UK visit and are not a British or Irish citizen, you most likely need an ETA. If you already hold a UK visa or immigration status, you do not. Check your nationality on the official page before booking.
Cost and how to apply
| Item | Detail (verify on GOV.UK) |
|---|---|
| Cost | £20 per person (as of June 2026 — confirm on GOV.UK) |
| How | The official 'UK ETA' app or GOV.UK |
| Processing | Often quick, but allow up to a few working days |
| Validity | Multiple entries over ~2 years (up to 6 months per stay) or until passport expiry |
- Apply before you book travel where possible, and certainly before you fly.
- One ETA per traveller, including children.
- It authorises travel but does not guarantee entry — Border Force makes the final decision.
Apply and check the current fee and eligible nationalities on the official page: gov.uk/eta. Last reviewed: June 2026.
