Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)

The ETA scheme will apply to most visitors to the UK who do not need a visa for stays of less than six months, and who do not have any other immigration status prior to travelling.

The UK Government is introducing an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme, meaning that as part of its transformation and digitisation of the UK border by 2025 an ETA is a digital permission to travel.

According to the Government, as the UK welcomes millions of visitors every year from around the world, these changes to our border system will lead to a better customer experience for those with permission to come to the UK. The introduction of an ETA scheme is in line with the approach many other countries have taken to border security and will help prevent the arrival of those who present a threat to the UK.

Visitors from the Gulf Cooperation Council states and Jordan will be the first to benefit from the UK’s new ETA scheme, ahead of a worldwide expansion of the scheme throughout 2024.

An ETA will cost £10 per applicant when the scheme opens for nationals from the Gulf states and Jordan. It will permit multiple journeys and will be valid for two years or until the holder’s passport expires, whichever is sooner. 

Further Guidance

Download the Home Office ETA Fact Sheet for further information. The following video will also provide you with a quick overview of the ETA.

For official updates regarding the UK ETA scheme, we recommend you click here. This webpage contains the latest timings, terms and conditions regarding the ETA scheme alongside customer guidance. Additionally, visitors can subscribe to this page for notifications of the latest updates, allowing you to stay informed.