Visiting the UK
Visa for temporary workers or academic visitors to the UK
The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a new requirement for visitors to the UK who do not currently need to apply for a visitor visa before travelling (non-visa nationals). The ETA gives you permission to travel to the UK, and is electronically linked to your passport. Visitors who currently need to apply for a visa before travelling to the UK (visa nationals) will still need to do so.
The ETA will be rolled out in stages. UKVI advise that it will apply to all non-visa nationals by the end of 2024.
From 15 November 2023, you will need an ETA if you are a national of Qatar.
From 1 February 2024, you will be able to apply for an ETA if you are a national of Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates.
Rollout dates for other nationalities will be announced.
You will need an ETA to:
- Come to the UK for up to 6 months for tourism, visiting family and friends, business (including visiting the University) or to study
- Transit through the UK
You will not need an ETA if any of the following apply:
- You hold a British or Irish passport
- You have permission to live, work or study in the UK
- You have a visa to enter the UK
Apply for an ETA
You can apply for your ETA online or using the app on your phone. Each visitor will need their own ETA, including children and babies. The cost of an ETA is £10 per person. You will usually get a decision within 3 working days (but it may take longer if further checks are required).
You will receive an email confirming your application has been approved. Your ETA is electronically linked to your passport and will last for 2 years. You must travel with the passport you used to apply. If you renew your passport, you will need to apply for a new ETA.
If you are refused an ETA you can apply for a visa.