Planning a trip to the UK? Then you should make extra preparations as the UK government rolls out its Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). While many travelers must now obtain an ETA, it doesn’t necessarily apply to all visitors.
Hence, if you’re wondering whether you’ll need the authorization for your UK trip, then the answer is that it depends.
In this guide, we take you through who needs an ETA, its exceptions, and what you can do in emergency situations.
What Is the UK ETA?
The UK ETA is a new pre-screening requirement for visitors from select countries. Specifically, it allows short stays for tourism, business, or transit.
In particular, the UK government introduced it to strengthen border control and streamline travel. Overall, it functions similarly to the US ESTA or Canada’s eTA.
To clarify, the ETA is not a visa. On the other hand, it’s a quick digital authorization linked to your passport. You apply online, usually before travel, and receive approval electronically.
Non-European travelers, especially from visa-exempt countries like the U.S., Canada, and Australia, fall under this requirement.
Who Needs an ETA?
Currently, travelers from countries that do not require a visa for short stays need an ETA. This includes many non-European nations. Here’s a breakdown:
As of April 2025, the following nationalities can start applying:
Non-European countries
- Antigua and Barbuda,
- Argentina,
- Australia,
- Bahamas,
- Barbados,
- Belize,
- Botswana,
- Brazil,
- Brunei,
- Canada,
- Chile,
- Costa Rica,
- Grenada,
- Guatemala,
- Guyana,
- Hong Kong,
- Marshall Islands,
- Mauritius,
- Mexico,
- Micronesia,
- Nauru,
- New Zealand,
- Nicaragua,
- Palau,
- Panama,
- Papua New Guinea,
- Paraguay,
- Peru,
- Saint Kitts and Nevis,
- Saint Lucia,
- Saint Vincent and the Grenadines,
- Samoa,
- Seychelles,
- Singapore,
- Solomon Islands,
- South Korea,
- Taiwan,
- Tonga,
- Trinidad and Tobago,
- Tuvalu,
- United States, and
- Uruguay
European Countries
- Andorra
- Austria
- Belgium
- Bulgaria
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Czechia
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Monaco
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania
- San Marino
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Vatican City
Eligible travelers must apply for the ETA before boarding a flight or train to the UK. Specifically, the rollout started with nationals from countries in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).
Eventually, the UK plans to make the system mandatory for all visa-free visitors. If your country is part of that list, you’ll need to apply.
Nevertheless, some nationalities still need a visa regardless. However, other visa-free countries must check when the ETA requirement takes effect for them.
Travel to the UK Without ETA
There are important exceptions to the ETA requirement. Hence, if you fall into one of these categories, you can travel without one.
Exemptions include:
- UK and Irish citizens
- Individuals with permission to live, work, or study in the UK (includes settled or pre-settled status or right of abode)
- British oversas territories citizen passport holders
- British National (Overseas) passport holders
- Residents of Ireland traveling from Ireland, Guernsey, Jersey, or the Isle of Man
- Children traveling on the France-UK school trip travel information form
- Transit passengers who stay in the international transit zone and don’t go through border control
- Diplomats and other non-armed forces members exempt from immigration control
If you hold a UK visa, then you do not need an ETA. Also, if you’re entering through Ireland and meet certain conditions, then you may avoid the requirement.
As such, always confirm with the UK government before travel. Generally, rules may change as the system expands.
Applying for an ETA (If Needed)
Applying for a UK ETA is simple and can be done online. Here’s how:
Step 1: Visit the EVS platform. It simplifies the application process so you can avoid going through complex visa processes.
At EVS, your personal and travel information remains safe and secure with its strict data protection regulations. Moreover, it provides you with expert guidance and seamless support to ensure a stress-free application journey.
Step 2: Upload a passport photo. It must have a plain, light-colored background without any shadows or objects behind you.
Step 3: Upload a scan or photo of your passport information page. Ensure the full passport photo page is inside the frame, including the two lines of numbers and letters at the bottom. Additionally, the passport must be valid for at least six months upon entering and exiting the UK.
Step 4: Provide your personal information:
- Contact details
- Home address
- Employment information
- Citizenship information
- Criminal history, if any
Overall, make sure that the information you provide matches what is on your passport.
Step 5: Review and confirm the information on your application. You can pay using suitable electronic payment methods.
Step 6: Pay the application fee.
Step 7: Receive your UK ETA. You will receive an email with the decision. Next, the ETA will be linked to your passport digitally.
Once approved, it is valid for multiple visits over a two-year period—or until your passport expires.
Even if you’re not visiting the UK for tourism or business, you still need an ETA if your travel involves entry.
Ready to get started with your application? Then click the button below to obtain your ETA.
What to Do in Urgent Situations
Sometimes, you must travel with little notice—funerals, emergencies, or family illness. In those cases, an ETA may still be mandatory, but options exist.
Currently, there is no official emergency ETA fast-track process yet, but travelers should:
- Apply immediately through EVS
- Provide documentation explaining the urgent reason for travel
If you’re from a country not yet covered by ETA, then you can travel if you have a valid UK visa.
Overall, don’t rely on last-minute exceptions unless unavoidable. It’s better to plan ahead.
How to Prepare: Avoiding ETA Issues
To avoid travel delays or denied boarding, take these steps:
- Check requirements as soon as you plan your trip.
- Apply early. Moreover, apply at least several days before travel.
- Ensure your passport is valid for the entire stay.
In addition, keep your ETA confirmation accessible—printed or digital. Though it’s linked to your passport, airlines may ask to see it.
If you have dual nationality, then apply with the passport you plan to use.
Future of the UK ETA System
Soon, the UK ETA system will expand. Eventually, most visa-exempt visitors—European and non-European—will need one.
In time, once fully implemented, the travel authorization may offer multiple entries and extended validity. But for now, treat each visit individually.
Conclusion
So, can you travel to the UK without an ETA? Yes—but only if you qualify under specific exceptions. In time, most non-European travelers will need one soon, if not already.
If you’re traveling urgently, then take fast action. Though options exist, nothing replaces proper planning.
As the UK modernizes its border systems, travelers must stay informed. Therefore, a smooth entry begins with understanding the ETA and acting early.
For fast, reliable, and professional ETA processing, apply via EVS.
Frequently Asked Questions
I’m not staying in the UK. Do I still need an ETA?
If you pass through UK border control—even during a layover—then you need it.
What if my flight is delayed and I have to leave the airport?
You’ll need an ETA to enter the UK, even due to delays or rebooking.
I’m flying to Ireland with a stop in the UK. Do I need an ETA?
Yes, if you enter the UK during transit, it is mandatory—even if Ireland is your final destination.
Is the UK ETA valid for multiple trips?
Yes. Specifically, it lasts up to two years or until your passport expires—whichever comes first.
Will I need an ETA for every trip to the UK?
Yes, unless you obtain a long-term visa or residence permit. As such, check for updates before booking future flights.
Can I apply for an ETA on arrival?
No. To clarify, it must be approved before you travel to the UK.
Do children need their own ETA?
Yes. Overall, every traveler, regardless of age, must have an individual ETA.
Photo by Tamara Menzi on Unsplash
