Guide
UK ETA guide: answers to the key questions
Factual explanations about applying and costs – with sources from GOV.UK and the date of our last check. Last checked: 4 October 2026
- Application
How to apply for a UK ETA: the application step by step
Passport, photo, email and a payment method – and where to find the government application.
Read - Cost
UK ETA cost: the £20 official fee – and what service providers charge on top
£20 at the Home Office – and how prices for application assistance are made up.
Read - Validity
UK ETA validity: 2 years or until your passport expires
2 years or until the passport expires – and why a new passport means a new ETA.
Read - Family
UK ETA for children and babies: every person needs their own ETA
Their own ETA from birth – and parents may apply on behalf of their children.
Read - Refusal
UK ETA refused: reasons and the difference between “rejected” and “refused”
Rejected = you can apply again. Refused = no appeal, a visa may be needed.
Read - Requirements
Who needs a UK ETA – and who does not? Requirements and exemptions
Required for most Europeans since 2 April 2025 – and the exemptions according to gov.uk.
Read - Comparison
UK ETA vs ESTA vs ETIAS: which applies to whom?
Three similar acronyms, three different systems – and ETIAS has not even started yet.
Read - Timing
UK ETA: when should you apply and how long does processing take?
Usually within a day, up to three working days – and why applying early makes sense.
Read - Decision guide
Apply for the UK ETA yourself or use application assistance? How to spot trustworthy offers
Direct application for £20 or a service at extra cost – and how to spot trustworthy providers.
Read
Prepare your UK ETA – step by step.
Fill in the steps first. You only need an account to pay. Only the UK Home Office makes the decision.