Is UK ETA a visa?

Is UK ETA a visa? It’s a question many travelers are asking as they plan their trips to the United Kingdom. While both allow entry, they’re not the same. In this guide, we’ll break down the differences between the UK ETA and a visa, who needs them, and everything you need to learn about UK Electronic Travel Authorisation.

Is UK ETA a visa? Learn the difference

No, the UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) is not a visa. As the Home Office explains, it is a digital travel permit required for visitors from certain visa-exempt countries, including Spain, Australia, Canada, and the United States. Unlike a visa, an ETA is easier to obtain, does not require a lengthy application process, and is meant for short-term visits such as tourism, business, and study for up to 6 months.

What is the UK ETA?

The UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a digital entry permit required for travelers from certain visa-exempt countries who wish to visit the United Kingdom. It is designed to enhance border security by pre-screening visitors before they arrive. The ETA is electronically linked to the traveler's passport and must be obtained before boarding a flight to the UK.

Once approved, a UK ETA is valid for 2 years or until the passport it is linked to expires, whichever comes first. During this period, travelers can enter the UK multiple times, provided each visit does not exceed the allowed 6-month stay limit.

UK ETA vs. visa: How is an ETA different from a visa?

While both an ETA and a visa allow entry into the UK, there are key differences:

What counts as a UK visa?

A UK visa is an official entry permit issued to foreign nationals who are not eligible for visa-free entry or an ETA. Unlike an ETA, a visa:

• Requires a more detailed application process, often including biometrics and supporting documents.

• Can be issued for various purposes, including work, study, settlement, or long-term stays.

• Grants different rights depending on the visa type, such as the ability to work or stay for extended periods.

For those planning an extended stay or needing specific permissions, the UK offers various visa options. These include the UK Visit Visa for longer tourist or business trips, the UK eVisa for digital application processing, and the UK Settlement Visa for residency. Employers looking to hire foreign workers can apply for a UK Sponsorship License, while students can secure a UK Student Visa for education. Additionally, individuals can apply for a Self-Sponsorship Skilled Worker Visa to work independently or a Spouse Visa to join their UK-based partner.

Apply for a UK ETA with confidence

For travelers applying for a UK ETA, Global Law offers:

• Accurate application support to prevent errors that could lead to delays or rejections.

• Expert legal guidance for individuals with past visa refusals or criminal records.

• Fast-tracked solutions for urgent travel plans, ensuring you receive approval on time.

• Personalized assistance for business travelers, professionals, and families to ensure a smooth entry into the UK.

FAQs

Is an ETA a Visitor Visa?

No, an ETA is not a visitor visa. While both allow short-term stays, a visitor visa is required for travelers from non-ETA eligible countries or those who need to stay longer than 6 months.

What Is a UK eVisa?

The UK eVisa is a digital version of a traditional visa, allowing applicants to receive their visa electronically instead of a physical visa sticker in their passport. Unlike the ETA, the UK eVisa applies to actual visa holders and is used for longer stays, work, or residency.

Can I travel to the UK with just an ETA?

Yes, if you're from an eligible country, you can travel to the UK with an ETA for short stays like tourism, business, or study. For longer stays or other activities, a visa is required.

How long does it take to get a UK ETA?

UK ETA approval typically takes 3 days, but it’s recommended to apply a few days before travel.

Can I extend my UK ETA if I need to stay longer than 6 months?

No, the UK ETA is valid for up to 6 months. For longer stays, you must apply for a visa.

Do I need a UK ETA if I’m transiting through the UK?

Yes, if you're passing through UK border control, you need an ETA. Check with your airline if you won't pass through border control.

Can I apply for a UK ETA if I’ve had a visa refusal?

Yes, you can apply, but you may need to provide additional documents. Legal advice can help if you have concerns about past refusals.

Who needs ETA for UK?

Do I need ETA for the UK? Check with out tool or use the list of nationalities eligible to apply for an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) when traveling to the UK. The UK ETA countries list includes countries and territories whose citizens can apply now, as well as those who will require an ETA for travel on or after April 2, 2025.

1. Andorra

2. Antigua and Barbuda

3. Argentina

4. Australia

5. Austria

6. Bahamas (The)

7. Bahrain

8. Barbados

9. Belarus

10. Belgium

11. Belize

12. Botswana

13. Brazil

14. Brunei

15. Bulgaria

16. Canada

17. Chile

18. Costa Rica

19. Croatia

20. Cyprus

21. Czechia

22. Denmark

23. Estonia

24. Finland

25. France

26. Federated States of Micronesia

27. Germany

28. Greece

29. Grenada

30. Guatemala

31. Guyana

32. Hungary

33. Iceland

34. Israel

35. Italy

36. Japan

37. Kiribati

38. Kuwait

39. Latvia

40. Liechtenstein

41. Lithuania

42. Luxembourg

43. Macao Special Administrative Region

44. Malaysia

45. Maldives

46. Malta

47. Marshall Islands

48. Mexico

49. Monaco

50. Netherlands

51. New Zealand

52. Nicaragua

53. Norway

54. Oman

55. Palau

56. Panama

57. Papua New Guinea

58. Paraguay

59. Peru

60. Poland

61. Portugal

62. Qatar

63. Romania

64. San Marino

65. Seychelles

66. Singapore

67. Slovakia

68. Slovenia

69. Solomon Islands

70. South Korea

71. Spain

72. St Kitts and Nevis

73. St Lucia

74. St Vincent and the Grenadines

75. Sweden

76. Switzerland

77. Taiwan (if you have a passport issued by Taiwan that includes in it the number of the identification card issued by the competent authority in Taiwan)

78. Tonga

79. Tuvalu

80. United Arab Emirates

81. United States

82. Uruguay

83. Vatican City