Applying for a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a straightforward process that most people complete in just a few minutes. Whether you use the official UK ETA app or apply online through GOV.UK, the entire application requires only basic personal information, a valid passport, and a £20 payment.
This guide walks you through every step of the UK ETA application process so you can get approved quickly and avoid common mistakes.
Before You Start Your UK ETA Application
Before beginning your application, make sure you have the following ready:
- A valid passport that you will use to travel to the UK
- An email address you can access
- A payment method (credit card, debit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay)
- A smartphone with a camera (if using the app)
Your passport must be valid for the duration of your trip. The ETA is linked to the specific passport you use during the application, so you must travel with that same passport.
Method 1: Apply Through the UK ETA App
The UK ETA app is the fastest and most popular way to apply. Most applicants receive an automatic decision within minutes when using the app.
Step 1: Download the App
Download the UK ETA app from:
- Google Play Store (for Android devices)
- Apple App Store (for iPhone and iPad)
Search for “UK ETA” and look for the official app published by the UK Home Office.
Step 2: Take a Photo of Your Passport
Open the app and follow the prompts to photograph the photo page of your passport. The app will guide you to position your passport correctly within the frame. Make sure:
- The photo is clear and not blurry
- All text on the passport page is readable
- There is no glare from lighting
- The entire passport page is visible
Step 3: Scan Your Passport Chip
The app will ask you to scan the electronic chip in your passport. Hold your phone against the passport and move it slowly until the chip is detected. This step verifies that your passport is genuine.
Not all phones support chip scanning. If your phone cannot scan the chip, you may need to apply online instead.
Step 4: Scan Your Face
The app will perform a facial scan to match your face to your passport photo. Follow the on-screen instructions, which typically involve:
- Looking directly at the camera
- Moving your head slightly as prompted
- Ensuring good lighting on your face
Step 5: Take a Photo of Yourself
You will need to take a live photo of yourself within the app. This photo must meet the same standards as UK passport photos:
- Plain, light-coloured background
- Neutral facial expression
- Eyes open and visible
- No sunglasses or head coverings (unless for religious reasons)
Step 6: Answer Suitability Questions
The application includes a short set of questions about your background, including:
- Any criminal convictions
- Previous immigration issues
- Security-related questions
Answer all questions honestly. Providing false information can result in your application being refused.
Step 7: Pay the Fee
Pay the £20 application fee using your preferred payment method. The app accepts:
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- Apple Pay
- Google Pay
The fee is non-refundable, even if your application is later refused.
Step 8: Submit and Wait
After payment, your application is submitted. You will receive a confirmation email. Most app applicants receive their decision within minutes, though it can take up to 3 working days.
Method 2: Apply Online
If you cannot use the app, you can apply online through the GOV.UK website.
Step 1: Visit the Official Website
Go to the official ETA application page on GOV.UK: apply-for-an-eta.homeoffice.gov.uk
Avoid unofficial websites that may charge higher fees.
Step 2: Create an Account or Sign In
You may need to create an account or verify your email address before proceeding.
Step 3: Enter Your Personal Details
Fill in your personal information exactly as it appears on your passport:
- Full name
- Date of birth
- Nationality
- Passport number
- Passport expiry date
- Contact information
Step 4: Upload Photos
You will need to upload:
- A clear photo of your passport’s photo page
- A recent photo of your face
Make sure both photos meet the required standards. Blurry or unclear images may delay your application.
Step 5: Answer Questions
Complete the suitability and criminality questionnaire, just as you would in the app.
Step 6: Pay and Submit
Pay the £20 fee and submit your application. You will receive a confirmation email with your application details.
Applying for Someone Else
You can apply for another person’s UK ETA, but the process differs depending on whether the applicant is with you:
- If the person is with you: Use the UK ETA app and have them present for the facial scan
- If the person is not with you: Apply online and provide their passport photo and a photo of their face
Each person, including children and infants, needs their own individual ETA application.
After You Apply
Receiving Your Decision
You will receive your decision by email from UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). The email contains:
- Your approval or refusal status
- Your 16-digit ETA reference number (if approved)
- Instructions for next steps
Checking Your ETA Status
You can check your ETA status at any time by visiting GOV.UK/check-eta. This service lets you verify:
- Whether you have a valid ETA
- When your ETA expires
If You Haven’t Received a Decision
If you have not received a decision after 3 working days:
Check your spam or junk email folder
Verify you entered the correct email address
Contact UKVI through the GOV.UK webchat service
You must wait for your ETA decision before travelling to the UK. Do not attempt to board your transport without a confirmed ETA.
UK ETA Application Tips
- Apply at least 3 working days before travel to allow for any delays
- Use the app for the fastest processing times
- Ensure your passport has at least 6 months validity remaining
- Double-check all information before submitting
- Keep your 16-digit reference number safe
- Do not apply through unofficial websites
Common Application Mistakes
- Using a passport that is damaged or unreadable
- Submitting blurry photos
- Entering passport details incorrectly
- Applying with a different passport than the one you will travel with
- Not applying for children separately
- Applying too close to your travel date
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for a UK ETA without the app?
Yes, you can apply online through the GOV.UK website. The app is recommended for faster processing, but the online application is fully functional.
How long does the UK ETA application take?
The application itself takes about 10-15 minutes to complete. Processing time is usually within minutes, but can take up to 3 working days.
Can I apply for a UK ETA for my child?
Yes, every traveller including children and infants needs their own ETA. You can apply on their behalf through the app (if they are with you) or online.
What if my UK ETA application is rejected?
A rejection means there may be an error in your application. You can apply again after correcting any mistakes. A refusal means you cannot get an ETA and must apply for a visa instead.
Do I need to print my UK ETA?
No, the ETA is electronically linked to your passport. You only need to show your passport when travelling. However, it is wise to keep your confirmation email as proof.
