What is the UK ETA (Evisa) ?
The United Kingdom Electronic Travel Authorization (UK ETA) is a digital travel permit introduced to enhance the UK’s border control and security measures. This new system, part of the UK’s broader digital border transformation, allows the government to streamline visitor tracking and pre-screen travelers from visa-exempt countries. With the UK ETA, the entry process becomes more efficient and secure for both travelers and the UK.
The UK ETA is not a visa but an electronic authorization required for nationals from certain countries who are traveling to the UK for short-term stays, such as tourism, visiting family and friends, business, or short courses. Importantly, it also applies to travelers transiting through the UK who do not otherwise need a visa. This pre-authorization ensures that the UK can identify potential security risks before a traveler reaches the border.
Why is the UK government introducing the ETA system?
The UK ETA program, established under the Nationality and Borders Act 2022, ensures that individuals who currently enjoy visa-free entry to the UK obtain authorization prior to travel. The objectives behind this system include:
- Enhanced Border Monitoring: Keeping track of entries and exits throughout the UK (England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland) at all points of entry.
- Pre-Entry Screening: Identifying travelers who may pose national security risks before they arrive.
- Data Collection: Retaining relevant data on visitor travel patterns, behaviors, and demographics to improve travel security.
- Revenue for Border Services: Generating funds through a small application fee to support UK border services.
When will the UK ETA system come into effect?
The UK ETA will become a requirement for all visa-exempt travelers by April 2025, making it a mandatory step for anyone visiting the UK without a visa.
Currently, nationals from Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) can apply for a UK ETA, and it will be mandatory for them from 22 February 2024.
In a recent update, Jordanian nationals were removed from the ETA eligibility list on 10 September 2024. However, those who booked travel before this date and entered the UK by 8 October 2024 were still eligible to enter under the ETA scheme.
When will European travelers need a UK ETA?
From 5 March 2025, nationals from EU countries can apply for an ETA, which will be required for travel to the UK from 2 April 2025 onwards. The UK Home Office has provided advance notice to allow travelers ample time to prepare for this requirement.
Key dates for the full rollout of the UK ETA:
- 27 November 2024: Nationals from visa-exempt, non-EU countries like the United States, Canada, and Australia can begin to apply for an ETA. For these travelers, the ETA will be mandatory for travel starting 8 January 2025.
- 5 March 2025: EU nationals may begin applying for an ETA. The requirement will be enforced from 2 April 2025.
If a traveler is denied an ETA, they may apply online for a UK Visitor Visa as an alternative.
Estimated Number of Travelers Using the UK ETA
The UK government expects over 30 million visitors to use the ETA system annually, with the largest numbers anticipated from the United States, France, Germany, Spain, and the Netherlands. The system is designed to support efficient processing for high volumes of travelers while maintaining strict security standards.
Who will need a UK ETA?
The UK ETA applies to nationals from visa-exempt countries who intend to stay in the UK for short-term purposes, such as:
- Tourism: Visiting for leisure, exploring landmarks, or other tourist activities.
- Family Visits: Visiting family and friends residing in the UK.
- Business: Attending meetings, conferences, or short-term business activities.
- Short Courses: Participating in short-term studies or training.
- Transit: Travelers passing through the UK en route to another destination, even if not passing through UK border control.
How to Apply for the UK ETA
The application process for a UK ETA is straightforward and completed online. Travelers will need to provide basic personal information, passport details, and travel plans. A small application fee is required, which helps fund the UK’s border services.
Once approved, the ETA is linked electronically to the traveler’s passport, allowing border control to verify the authorization easily.
Benefits of the UK ETA
For travelers, the UK ETA offers a quicker, more convenient entry process, reducing wait times at the border by pre-clearing individuals. For the UK, the system offers improved control and oversight over incoming visitors, contributing to national security and a smoother overall travel experience.
Frequently Asked Questions about the UK ETA
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- Is the ETA a visa?
No, the UK ETA is not a visa. It is an authorization required for short-term visits for citizens of visa-exempt countries. If you need a visa, the ETA is not a substitute.
- Is the ETA a visa?
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- How long is an ETA valid?
An ETA is typically valid for multiple entries within a specified period, allowing for flexibility if you plan to visit the UK more than once during that time.
- How long is an ETA valid?
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- What happens if my ETA is denied?
If your ETA application is denied, you may apply for a UK Visitor Visa to seek entry to the UK.
- What happens if my ETA is denied?
Who Doesn’t Need to Apply for a UK ETA?
You do not need to apply for a UK ETA if any of the following criteria apply:
British Citizens and Overseas Territory Citizens: Holders of a British passport or a British Overseas Territory passport are exempt.
- Irish Citizens: Irish passport holders do not need an ETA due to the Common Travel Area (CTA) agreement between the UK and Ireland.
- Legal Residents of Ireland: Legal residents of Ireland are exempt if:
- They do not need a visa to enter the UK,
They are entering the UK from Ireland, Guernsey, Jersey, or the Isle of Man.
Individuals with UK Immigration Status: Travelers with valid immigration status, including those with settled or pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS), do not need an ETA.
UK Visa Holders: Those holding a valid UK visa for visiting, working, studying, or other authorized purposes are exempt from ETA requirements.
Do Children Need an ETA?
Yes, all travelers entering the UK without a visa need a UK ETA, regardless of age, including infants, children, and teens.
Is it Correct That EU Settled Status Holders Don’t Need an ETA?
Yes, individuals with settled or pre-settled status in the UK are not required to obtain an ETA.
Where is the UK ETA Required?
An approved UK ETA permits travel to any part of the UK, including England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. However, it does not grant access to the Republic of Ireland or any other European countries.
Will You Need a New ETA for Each Visit to the UK?
No. The UK ETA is valid for two years or until the passport associated with it expires, whichever comes first, allowing multiple short visits to the UK within that timeframe.
Will I Be Denied Entry to the UK Without an ETA?
Yes. Without a valid ETA, you will not be allowed to board your transport to the UK. Carriers must verify that passengers have an approved ETA before travel, using the UK’s Advance Passenger Information (API) system. Travelers who arrive in the UK without an ETA may be refused entry and face possible penalties.
Can You Study in the UK with an ETA?
Yes. An ETA permits short-term studies of up to six months. Longer study periods require a Student Visa.
Can You Work in the UK with an ETA?
No, an ETA does not allow you to work in the UK. However, it permits certain business-related activities, such as attending conferences and meetings.
Do I Need an ETA if I Have a UK Visa?
No. If you hold a UK visa or another form of UK immigration status, you do not need an ETA.
How is the UK ETA Different from a Visa?
The UK ETA is an authorization to travel to the UK but does not guarantee entry. An approved UK ETA allows the holder to board transportation to the UK, but travelers must still go through border control for entry approval.
What’s the Difference Between the UK ETA and Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW)?
The UK ETA is a new travel authorization, eventually replacing the EVW used by citizens of some Arab countries. Starting 1 February 2024, nationals from Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia can apply for an ETA for travel from 22 February 2024 onward.
How Long is the UK ETA Valid?
An approved ETA is valid for two years from the date of issue or until the associated passport expires, whichever is sooner.
Is the UK ETA the Same as ETIAS?
No. The UK ETA is the UK’s system for visa-exempt travelers, while the ETIAS is the EU’s authorization system for Schengen countries, expected to be implemented by mid-2025.
Application and Processing FAQs
ETA for Children: Parents or guardians can apply on behalf of their children, and each traveler must have their own approved ETA.
How to Apply: Apply online by submitting your passport details, a recent passport-style photo, and an online payment.
Processing Time: Applications are typically processed within 72 hours, though many are approved within minutes.