An Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a pre-travel check that lets you travel to the UK. It is not permission to enter and is only appropriate if you’re planning to enter as a Visitor.
When you arrive, you still need to be permitted entry as a Visitor and you'd still be subject to the conditions of a Standard Visitor visa. Please read our article Travelling to the UK as a Visitor to find out more and prepare your documents for entry to the UK.
Do I need an ETA?
You need to get an ETA before travelling to the UK if:
- you're coming to the UK as a Visitor
and
- you aren't required to apply for a Visitor visa in advance (you're a non-visa national)
How do I apply for an ETA?
Visit UKVI's webpage to find out more about the application process and to apply online.
Important to know: your passport will need to be valid for the duration of your stay when you apply for an ETA. Please read our article Travelling to the UK as a Visitor to learn about which documents to carry when entering the UK as Visitor, even if you have an ETA.