Eligibility tool: Do I need ETA for UK? - UK Immigration consultancy in Mayfair, London

If you are asking yourself, "Do I need ETA for UK?", you’re not alone! If you're visiting from a visa-exempt country like the U.S., Canada, Australia, and EU, the answer is yes—you’ll need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for short stays.

This UK ETA guide breaks down who needs an ETA, what it allows, what it doesn’t, and how to apply so you can travel smoothly and avoid any surprises.

Do I need ETA for UK? Check with the Global Law visa tool

How to check eligibility for the UK ETA? If your country doesn’t require a visa for short stays (under six months) but you’re not a UK or Irish citizen, you’ll need an ETA before traveling. This applies to travelers from the US, Canada, Australia, Japan, and, starting March 5, 2025, the EU. If you're wondering, "Do I need an ETA for the UK?", don’t risk travel issues—check your eligibility with our tool today.

You don't need an ETA if you already have a UK visa, live in Ireland, or are a UK or Irish citizen.

UK ETA benefits and restrictions

Allowed activities with a UK ETA	What you cannot do with a UK ETA
Stay up to six months for tourism, visiting family, business meetings, or short-term study.	Stay in the UK for more than six months.
Stay up to three months under the Creative Worker visa concession.	Work for a UK company or be self-employed, except under specific conditions.
Perform a permitted paid engagement (such as a guest lecture or performance).	Access public funds (such as social benefits).
Transit through the UK if passing through border control.	Use frequent visits to live in the UK long-term.
	Get married or register a civil partnership (requires a Marriage Visitor visa).

A UK ETA allows short visits for tourism, business meetings, short-term study, and certain work engagements, but it does not permit long-term stays, employment, or settlement. For those seeking extended stays or specific permissions, other visa options include the UK Visit Visa for longer tourist or business visits, the UK E-Visa for digital processing, the UK Settlement Visa for residency, the UK Sponsorship License for employers hiring foreign workers, and the UK Student Visa for education. Additionally, individuals may apply for a Self-Sponsorship Skilled Worker Visa to work independently or a Spouse Visa to join a UK-based partner.