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.
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.
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.
While both an ETA and a visa allow entry into the UK, there are key differences:
UK ETA | UK visas | |
Purpose | Short-term visits (tourism, business, transit, study) | Work, long-term study, settlement, other special purposes |
Application | Online | Requires documents, biometrics, and approval process |
Processing time | Usually within 3 days | Can take weeks or months |
Stay duration | Up to 6 months | Varies by visa type |
Work rights | Not allowed, except for certain permitted paid engagements | Work rights depend on the visa type |
Validity | 2 years or until passport expires | Varies (e.g., 6 months to several years) |
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.
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.
Global Law is an award-winning UK immigration consultancy with offices in London and Dubai, providing over 17 years of expertise in immigration law.
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.
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.
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.
UK ETA approval typically takes 3 days, but it’s recommended to apply a few days before travel.
No, the UK ETA is valid for up to 6 months. For longer stays, you must apply for a visa.
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.
Yes, you can apply, but you may need to provide additional documents. Legal advice can help if you have concerns about past refusals.
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.
Andorra
Antigua and Barbuda
Argentina
Austria
Bahamas (The)
Bahrain
Barbados
Belarus
Belgium
Belize
Botswana
Brazil
Brunei
Bulgaria
Canada
Chile
Costa Rica
Croatia
Cyprus
Czechia
Denmark
Estonia
Finland
France
Federated States of Micronesia
Greece
Grenada
Guatemala
Guyana
Hungary
Iceland
Israel
Italy
Japan
Kiribati
Kuwait
Latvia
Liechtenstein
Lithuania
Luxembourg
Macao Special Administrative Region
Maldives
Malta
Marshall Islands
Mexico
Monaco
Netherlands
New Zealand
Nicaragua
Norway
Oman
Palau
Panama
Papua New Guinea
Paraguay
Peru
Poland
Portugal
Qatar
Romania
San Marino
Seychelles
Slovakia
Slovenia
Solomon Islands
South Korea
St Kitts and Nevis
St Lucia
St Vincent and the Grenadines
Sweden
Switzerland
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)
Tonga
Tuvalu
United Arab Emirates
Uruguay
Vatican City
About the author
Eray is a seasoned writer and passionate traveler who has explored over 20 countries. With firsthand experience navigating visas and international travel, and a proven track record with reputable platforms like Dataconomy and Softonic, Eray now makes it easier for travelers to achieve their travel goals.
Eray Eliacik
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