If you are going on a city trip to London or any other nice city in the United Kingdom soon, you will need an ETA (electronic travel authorization). This digital travel authorization is mandatory for any tourist staying in the United Kingdom for a short time. n this blog exactly how applying for an ETA works and what you need to consider when traveling to London or any other British city, This way you will be well prepared for your trip.
What is an ETA?
An ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) is a digital travel authorization you need to enter the United Kingdom. Because the document is digital, you don’t need to bring paper proof. Once your application is approved, the authorization is automatically linked to your passport. This allows you to get through border control faster upon arrival.
Is an ETA for the UK the same as an eTA for Canada?
No, an ETA for the United Kingdom is not the same as an eTA for Canada. Although the names are almost identical and both systems provide digital short-stay travel authorizations, they are two entirely separate permissions.
The British ETA is intended for travelers who want to enter the United Kingdom. This permission is part of the new admission system that the UK is introducing step by step.
The Canadian eTA, on the other hand, is designed specifically for travelers flying to Canada. This system has been in use for some time and follows different rules than the British version.
Because the names are so similar, they are often confused with each other. Yet both documents have their own conditions, application steps and validity, and so you cannot use them interchangeably. Travelers should always apply for the authorization belonging to the country they are going to.
Is an ETA the same as a visa?
Although an ETA is similar to a visa, it is not. A visa grants entry for longer or specific stays, while an ETA is intended for short trips. Think vacations, family visits or short business appointments.
How long is an ETA valid?
An ETA remains valid for a period of two years. During this period, you may travel to England several times. However, each trip must fit within the rules of short stay. Because the permission is valid for longer, you do not have to reapply each time.
How long does an ETA allow you to stay in the UK?
An ETA for the United Kingdom allows you to stay in the country for up to six months per visit. This period applies to tourist trips, family visits, short business appointments and study programs of limited duration. During the validity period, you may enter and exit multiple times. Each entry will start a new period of stay of up to six months.
However, you are not allowed to use this scheme to live or work in the UK for an extended period of time. Travelers who wish to stay longer or have a different travel purpose should apply for a visa that suits their situation.
What do you need to apply for an ETA?
Before you begin applying for an ETA, it is helpful to have everything ready. This will make the application go smoothly.
You need:
1. A valid passport
Your passport must be from an ETA-eligible country. In addition, the passport must remain valid throughout your trip.
2. A recent passport photo (no more than 3 months old)
You upload a digital photo that is clear and well-exposed. This allows the system to quickly verify your identity.
3. A working email address
Through this address, you will receive updates about your application. In addition, the confirmation will be sent digitally so you can save it immediately.
4. A means of payment
You can pay by debit or credit card. Once the payment is complete, your application will be processed.
5. Basic information about your trip
Although you don’t need a full schedule yet, the form asks about your stay and your arrival date.
How do you apply for an ETA for the United Kingdom?
Applying for an ETA for the United Kingdom is done entirely online. You can do this through the UK government website, but the fastest way is through the official UK ETA app. Below you can read exactly how it works, step by step.
Step-by-step ETA application through the app
1. Download the UK ETA app.
The application starts in the app. You can find it in the app stores:
Make sure you have the app on a device that can take photos and supports NFC.
2. Enter your email address
Open the app and enter your email address. You’ll get a verification code right away, so use an address you have immediate access to.
3. Check if your passport has a chip
The app shows a small chip icon. This icon is also on the front of your passport. Doesn’t your passport have a chip? Then you can still complete the application, but you’ll skip the chip step later.
4. Take a picture of your passport
You now take a clear picture of your passport page. Notice:
1. All corners should be visible
2. The machine-readable strip (MRZ) must be in view
3. The picture of you on the page must be sharp
5. Read the chip of your passport
If your passport has a chip, the app asks you to put your phone on the passport page.
Tip: Take off the phone cover first. That helps read the chip faster.
6. Take a facial scan
The app requires a brief facial recognition:
1. Hair out of your face
2. Glasses off
3. Looking straight into the camera
Are you also applying for an ETA for someone else? Then that person must be physically present at that time, as his or her face must also be scanned.
7. Upload a passport photo of yourself
Then take a photo to be used as an official passport photo. Use a calm, even background and avoid harsh light.
8. Fill in your personal information
You now enter the following information:
1. Your residential address
2. Any second nationality
3. Some standard questions, such as your current occupation
4. Policy questions about criminal convictions or investigations.
5. Read everything carefully.
9. Check all data
Before you can pay, the app displays a summary of your entire application. Check everything carefully, as the application cannot be refunded even if the ETA is rejected.
10. Pay the application fee
The cost for an ETA is 16 British pounds. In the app, you can immediately see how much this is converted into euros.
You can pay with:
1. Google Pay
2. Credit card
After the payment is processed, you will receive confirmation by email and your ETA will be automatically linked to your passport.
How long in advance should you apply for an ETA?
It is wise to apply for your ETA at least a few days before departure. Because processing is often fast, this is usually sufficient. Still, it’s better to do it a little earlier so you have time to resolve any error messages.
What does an ETA cost?
The cost for an ETA for the United Kingdom is £16. You pay the fee directly during the online application.
Can you be turned away with a valid ETA?
Although rare, a traveler can still be stopped. For example, if information does not match the passport or if border inspectors have doubts about the purpose of travel. Therefore, always check your information before sending the form.
My tips for applying for an ETA
Proper preparation ensures that ETA application goes off without a hitch. Below are five practical tips.
1. Check your passport
Make sure your passport is still valid long enough. Once it is about to expire, it is better to apply for a new document first. This will prevent your ETA from becoming invalid.
2.Apply for your ETA on time
Although processing is fast, it can be busy at times. When you start on time, you avoid stress and can be sure that your permission will be in on time.
3. Save your confirmation
Although the ETA is attached to your passport, it is convenient to keep the confirmation on your phone as well. This allows you to have everything on hand if you are asked anything.
Edward
Hi, I'm Edward, crazy about city trips and everything that makes these trips so special. On Cities To travel I share my best tips and recommendations for your next city trip!
If you are going on a city break to London and would like to visit some of the sights, take advantage of the offers below and save money on your admission tickets.
Hi, I’m Edward, and I love city breaks and everything that makes them so special. On Cities To Travel, I share my best tips and recommendations for your next city break!
Applying for ETA: Tips and Info
If you are going on a city trip to London or any other nice city in the United Kingdom soon, you will need an ETA (electronic travel authorization). This digital travel authorization is mandatory for any tourist staying in the United Kingdom for a short time. n this blog exactly how applying for an ETA works and what you need to consider when traveling to London or any other British city, This way you will be well prepared for your trip.
What is an ETA?
An ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) is a digital travel authorization you need to enter the United Kingdom. Because the document is digital, you don’t need to bring paper proof. Once your application is approved, the authorization is automatically linked to your passport. This allows you to get through border control faster upon arrival.
Is an ETA for the UK the same as an eTA for Canada?
No, an ETA for the United Kingdom is not the same as an eTA for Canada. Although the names are almost identical and both systems provide digital short-stay travel authorizations, they are two entirely separate permissions.
The British ETA is intended for travelers who want to enter the United Kingdom. This permission is part of the new admission system that the UK is introducing step by step.
The Canadian eTA, on the other hand, is designed specifically for travelers flying to Canada. This system has been in use for some time and follows different rules than the British version.
Because the names are so similar, they are often confused with each other. Yet both documents have their own conditions, application steps and validity, and so you cannot use them interchangeably. Travelers should always apply for the authorization belonging to the country they are going to.
Is an ETA the same as a visa?
Although an ETA is similar to a visa, it is not. A visa grants entry for longer or specific stays, while an ETA is intended for short trips. Think vacations, family visits or short business appointments.
How long is an ETA valid?
An ETA remains valid for a period of two years. During this period, you may travel to England several times. However, each trip must fit within the rules of short stay. Because the permission is valid for longer, you do not have to reapply each time.
How long does an ETA allow you to stay in the UK?
An ETA for the United Kingdom allows you to stay in the country for up to six months per visit. This period applies to tourist trips, family visits, short business appointments and study programs of limited duration. During the validity period, you may enter and exit multiple times. Each entry will start a new period of stay of up to six months.
However, you are not allowed to use this scheme to live or work in the UK for an extended period of time. Travelers who wish to stay longer or have a different travel purpose should apply for a visa that suits their situation.
What do you need to apply for an ETA?
Before you begin applying for an ETA, it is helpful to have everything ready. This will make the application go smoothly.
You need:
1. A valid passport
Your passport must be from an ETA-eligible country. In addition, the passport must remain valid throughout your trip.
2. A recent passport photo (no more than 3 months old)
You upload a digital photo that is clear and well-exposed. This allows the system to quickly verify your identity.
3. A working email address
Through this address, you will receive updates about your application. In addition, the confirmation will be sent digitally so you can save it immediately.
4. A means of payment
You can pay by debit or credit card. Once the payment is complete, your application will be processed.
5. Basic information about your trip
Although you don’t need a full schedule yet, the form asks about your stay and your arrival date.
How do you apply for an ETA for the United Kingdom?
Applying for an ETA for the United Kingdom is done entirely online. You can do this throughthe UK government website , but the fastest way is through the official UK ETA app. Below you can read exactly how it works, step by step.
Step-by-step ETA application through the app
1. Download the UK ETA app.
The application starts in the app. You can find it in the app stores:
Make sure you have the app on a device that can take photos and supports NFC.
2. Enter your email address
Open the app and enter your email address. You’ll get a verification code right away, so use an address you have immediate access to.
3. Check if your passport has a chip
The app shows a small chip icon. This icon is also on the front of your passport. Doesn’t your passport have a chip? Then you can still complete the application, but you’ll skip the chip step later.
4. Take a picture of your passport
You now take a clear picture of your passport page. Notice:
1. All corners should be visible
2. The machine-readable strip (MRZ) must be in view
3. The picture of you on the page must be sharp
5. Read the chip of your passport
If your passport has a chip, the app asks you to put your phone on the passport page.
Tip:
Take off the phone cover first. That helps read the chip faster.
6. Take a facial scan
The app requires a brief facial recognition:
1. Hair out of your face
2. Glasses off
3. Looking straight into the camera
Are you also applying for an ETA for someone else? Then that person must be physically present at that time, as his or her face must also be scanned.
7. Upload a passport photo of yourself
Then take a photo to be used as an official passport photo.
Use a calm, even background and avoid harsh light.
8. Fill in your personal information
You now enter the following information:
1. Your residential address
2. Any second nationality
3. Some standard questions, such as your current occupation
4. Policy questions about criminal convictions or investigations.
5. Read everything carefully.
9. Check all data
Before you can pay, the app displays a summary of your entire application.
Check everything carefully, as the application cannot be refunded even if the ETA is rejected.
10. Pay the application fee
The cost for an ETA is 16 British pounds.
In the app, you can immediately see how much this is converted into euros.
You can pay with:
1. Google Pay
2. Credit card
After the payment is processed, you will receive confirmation by email and your ETA will be automatically linked to your passport.
How long in advance should you apply for an ETA?
It is wise to apply for your ETA at least a few days before departure. Because processing is often fast, this is usually sufficient. Still, it’s better to do it a little earlier so you have time to resolve any error messages.
What does an ETA cost?
The cost for an ETA for the United Kingdom is £16. You pay the fee directly during the online application.
Can you be turned away with a valid ETA?
Although rare, a traveler can still be stopped. For example, if information does not match the passport or if border inspectors have doubts about the purpose of travel. Therefore, always check your information before sending the form.
My tips for applying for an ETA
Proper preparation ensures that ETA application goes off without a hitch. Below are five practical tips.
1. Check your passport
Make sure your passport is still valid long enough. Once it is about to expire, it is better to apply for a new document first. This will prevent your ETA from becoming invalid.
2.Apply for your ETA on time
Although processing is fast, it can be busy at times. When you start on time, you avoid stress and can be sure that your permission will be in on time.
3. Save your confirmation
Although the ETA is attached to your passport, it is convenient to keep the confirmation on your phone as well. This allows you to have everything on hand if you are asked anything.
Edward
Hi, I'm Edward, crazy about city trips and everything that makes these trips so special. On Cities To travel I share my best tips and recommendations for your next city trip!
Special offers for a city trip to London
If you are going on a city break to London and would like to visit some of the sights, take advantage of the offers below and save money on your admission tickets.
Hi, I’m Edward, and I love city breaks and everything that makes them so special. On Cities To Travel, I share my best tips and recommendations for your next city break!
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