The UK is Introducing an Electronic Travel Authorisation scheme for Visa Exempt Nationals. The changes will come into effect from November 2023 onwards. The rollout of the Electronic Travel Authorisation scheme will happen in phases and will impact people who were not required to get a visa before travelling to the UK currently.
Which Country Nationals will need to apply for Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)?
From 15 November 2023, you’ll need an ETA if you’re travelling to the UK and you’re a national of Qatar.
From 22 February 2024, you’ll need an ETA if you’re travelling to the UK and you’re a national of the following mentioned countries:
- Bahrain
- Jordan
- Kuwait
- Oman
- Saudi Arabia
- United Arab Emirates
More countries will be added to the scheme later.
Which country Nationals can travel to the UK without ETA?
You will not need an ETA if you have either:
- a British or Irish passport
- permission to live, work or study in the UK
- a visa to enter the UK
If you’re legally resident in Ireland, and you do not need a visa to visit the UK, you will not need an ETA if you’re entering the UK from either of the following countries:
- Ireland
- Guernsey
- Jersey
- Isle of Man
How to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)?
You’ll need to apply on the UK ETA app, or online on GOV.UK.
You’ll usually get a decision within 3 working days, but you may get a quicker decision.
It may take longer than 3 working days if we need to make further checks.
How much does the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) Cost?
As of now the Gov.uk website has not disclosed the cost of the ETA, However, it will be published soon, And we will keep you posted.
Please note, that each traveller must apply for their own ETA, including children.
Basis the recent updates as on 6th June 2023, There is a $ 12.50 USD fee introduced for ETA applications.
How you will get your ETA?
You’ll get an email confirmation if your application is approved.
We’ll link your ETA electronically to the passport you applied with. You must use the same passport to travel.
Note: Make sure to check your spam/junk folders, in case the mail goes there.
How long is ETA valid?
Your ETA will last for 2 years.
Can I use the ETA for multiple UK visits?
Yes, You can use it to make multiple visits to the UK. You still need to either use an ePassport gate if you are eligible to use one or see a Border Force officer to enter the UK.
If you get a new passport in less than 2 years, you’ll need to get a new ETA.
An ETA does not guarantee entry to the UK.
Please see the below video published by Gov.UK explaining the new Electronic Travel Authorisation scheme and who will get impacted by this new visa process.
Please keep checking our Visa section to see the latest news and updates happening on the UK visa processes. Gone are the days when people from certain countries/nationalities were travelling to the UK without the hassle of applying for a visa. Going forward the UK is getting stricter with its visa and border policies.
Check by searching below the documents you will need to travel to the UK:
