If the UK ETA app is not working for you, you're not alone. Many travelers face issues like passport scan failures, payment errors, and app crashes, making it hard to complete their applications. In this UK ETA guide, we’ll cover the most common problems, real user experiences, and the best way to avoid the hassle.
Here are some of the most reported problems with the UK ETA app, along with real-life user experiences:
Passport chip scan errors: Many users have reported that the UK ETA app struggles to detect the passport chip, making it impossible to complete the application.
Face scan verification failure: Some users get stuck at the face scan step, receiving repeated errors.
Payment not going through: Another major issue for many applicants is payment failures, even when using valid credit or debit cards.
App crashes and lockouts: Some applicants report the app crashing mid-process, forcing them to start over. Others get locked out after multiple attempts.
Instead of battling endless technical issues, the best way to guarantee a successful UK ETA application is to apply with Global Law.
Avoid technical errors: No need to worry about passport scans, payment failures, or app crashes. Global Law handles everything for you.
Fast & hassle-free approval: The Global Law team ensures your application is error-free, helping you get your ETA approved quickly.
24/7 Support: If you encounter issues, Global Law provides round-the-clock assistance.
Legal expertise you can trust: With 17+ years of experience, Global Law specializes in UK immigration and has helped thousands of travelers secure their visas without complications.
Higher success rate: Travelers using Global Law report higher approval rates and avoid unnecessary delays.
The UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is a new digital entry permit for visa-exempt travelers visiting the United Kingdom. Introduced to enhance border security and streamline entry procedures, the ETA is required for short visits, transit, and tourism.
The UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is a mandatory entry requirement for visitors from visa-exempt countries. The rollout of the ETA is being implemented in phases:
From January 8, 2025: Citizens from countries including the United States, Canada, Australia, and Japan will need an ETA to enter the UK.
From April 2, 2025: The requirement will extend to European Union (EU) nationals and travelers from other European countries.
Do I need ETA for UK? Check with our tool.
The ETA system helps the UK government pre-screen travelers, ensuring better security and efficiency at border checkpoints. However, with its strict requirements and technical challenges, many travelers face delays and application errors—which is where expert assistance, such as Global Law’s services, becomes essential.
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.
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
Australia
Austria
Bahamas (The)
Bahrain
Barbados
Belarus
Belgium
Belize
Botswana
Brazil
Brunei
Bulgaria
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
Singapore
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
Mar 08, 2025
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March 19th, 2025
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