UK ETA Application Questions & Answers 2026: Everything You Need to Know

Applying for a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) raises many questions for first-time applicants. From what information you need to provide to how to handle tricky situations, this comprehensive Q&A guide answers the most common UK ETA application questions that travellers ask in 2026.

Whether you are applying for yourself, a family member, or a group, this article covers every question you are likely to encounter during the ETA application process.

Key fact: The UK ETA costs £16 per application, is valid for 2 years or until your passport expires, and allows unlimited visits of up to 6 months each. Citizens from 48 eligible countries must obtain an ETA before travelling (Source: GOV.UK).

Basic Application Questions

What information do I need to apply for a UK ETA?

To complete your UK ETA application, you will need:

• Valid passport — Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay (there is no six-month rule for the UK ETA, unlike some other countries).
• Email address — A valid email where you will receive your ETA approval notification.
• Smartphone with camera — For taking a biometric selfie photo (if using the app).
• Debit or credit card — To pay the application fee.
• Travel details — Your planned UK address and travel dates (these are not binding and can change after approval).

How do I apply for a UK ETA?

You can apply through two channels:

1. The UK ETA app — Available for iOS and Android. Download from the App Store or Google Play. The app uses your phone’s NFC reader to scan your passport chip and camera for biometric photos. This is the recommended method. See our detailed guide on the UK ETA app.
2. Online at gov.uk — The official UK Government ETA website allows you to apply without the app, though you will still need to upload a photo.

How much does a UK ETA cost?

The UK ETA costs £10 per person. This is a one-time fee valid for the entire two-year validity period of the ETA. For the latest pricing information, check our UK ETA fees and costs guide.

How long does the UK ETA take to process?

Most UK ETA applications are processed and approved within minutes to a few hours. However, some applications may require manual review and can take up to 72 hours or longer. We recommend applying at least 72 hours before your planned departure. For detailed processing time information, see our guide on UK ETA processing times.

Eligibility Questions

Who needs a UK ETA?

A UK ETA is required for all visa-exempt nationals who want to visit the UK. This includes citizens of:

• European Union member states (France, Germany, Spain, Italy, etc.)
• United States and Canada
• Australia, New Zealand, and Japan
• Most South American countries
• Many Asian and Middle Eastern countries

British and Irish citizens do not need an ETA. People who already hold a UK visa (work, student, family, etc.) also do not need an ETA — their visa or eVisa covers their travel authorisation.

Do children need their own ETA?

Yes. Every individual, regardless of age, needs their own UK ETA linked to their own passport. Parents or guardians can apply on behalf of children using the same app or website.

Do I need an ETA for transit through the UK?

Yes. Even if you are only transiting through the UK (e.g., changing flights at Heathrow or passing through the Channel Tunnel), you need a valid UK ETA. This applies to all forms of transit including air, rail, and sea. For details, see our guide on UK ETA for transit passengers.

I have dual nationality — which passport should I use?

Apply for your UK ETA using the passport you intend to travel with. If one of your nationalities is British or Irish, you do not need an ETA at all. For detailed guidance, read our article on UK ETA and dual nationality.

Photo and Technical Questions

What are the photo requirements for the UK ETA?

The UK ETA app requires a biometric selfie photo taken during the application. Key requirements include:

• Clear, well-lit photo with a plain background
• Face fully visible with no sunglasses, hats, or head coverings (unless for religious reasons)
• Neutral expression with mouth closed
• No filters or editing

For detailed guidance, see our UK ETA photo requirements guide.

My photo keeps getting rejected — what should I do?

Common reasons for photo rejection include poor lighting, shadows on the face, an unclear background, or the face being too small or large in the frame. Try taking your photo in natural daylight against a white wall. If problems persist, try applying through the website instead of the app.

The app cannot read my passport — what should I do?

If the NFC passport scanner is not working, try the following:

• Remove your phone case, as it may interfere with the NFC reader.
• Hold your passport flat and move your phone slowly over the back cover or the photo page.
• Ensure NFC is enabled in your phone’s settings.
• Try a different phone or apply through the website instead.

Travel and Validity Questions

How long is the UK ETA valid?

Your UK ETA is valid for two years from the date of issue, or until your passport expires — whichever comes first. During this period, you can make unlimited visits to the UK.

How long can I stay in the UK with an ETA?

Each visit can last up to six months. The ETA does not guarantee entry for six months — the Border Force officer determines the length of your permitted stay at the point of entry.

Can I work in the UK with an ETA?

No. The UK ETA does not permit employment. You can attend business meetings, conferences, and negotiations, but you cannot perform productive work. If you need to work in the UK, you will need a work visa. For clarification on what business activities are permitted, see our guide on UK ETA for business travel.

Can I study in the UK with an ETA?

You can take short courses of up to 30 days (such as recreational courses or English language classes). For longer study, you will need a student visa.

I got a new passport — do I need a new ETA?

Yes. Your ETA is linked to your passport number. If you get a new passport, you must apply for a new ETA linked to the new passport. Your old ETA becomes invalid when linked to an expired or replaced passport.

Problems and Refusal Questions

What happens if my UK ETA is refused?

If your ETA is refused, you will receive an email notification. You cannot travel to the UK without a valid ETA or visa. Your options include applying for a standard visitor visa (which allows you to submit additional documentation) or requesting an administrative review. For complete guidance, see our article on what to do if your UK ETA is refused.

Can I travel without an ETA?

No. Since February 2026, you will be denied boarding by airlines, train operators, and ferry companies if you do not have a valid UK ETA. This is because carriers check your ETA status before departure. For more details, read our article on whether you can travel to the UK without an ETA.

I made a mistake on my application — can I correct it?

Minor errors in your application may be corrected by contacting the Home Office. However, the name and passport number must match your travel document exactly. If there is a significant error, you may need to submit a new application.

Will a criminal record affect my ETA application?

Having a criminal record does not automatically disqualify you from receiving a UK ETA. The Home Office assesses each case individually. For detailed guidance, read our comprehensive article on UK ETA and criminal records.

Payment and Practical Questions

What payment methods are accepted?

The UK ETA application accepts major debit and credit cards including Visa, Mastercard, and American Express. Some digital payment methods may also be accepted through the app.

Can I get a refund if my ETA is refused?

No. The ETA application fee is non-refundable regardless of the outcome of your application. This covers the cost of processing and security checks.

Can someone else apply on my behalf?

Yes. A travel agent, family member, or friend can submit the application on your behalf. However, the information provided must be accurate and truthful, and the applicant is personally responsible for the accuracy of all details.

Do I need to print my ETA approval?

No. Your ETA is linked electronically to your passport. There is nothing to print or carry. Airlines and Border Force check your ETA digitally when you check in and at the border.

Group and Family Application Questions

Can I apply for my whole family at once?

While each family member needs their own individual ETA, you can submit multiple applications in sequence through the app or website. There is no group application feature, but a parent or guardian can apply for all children using their own device. Each application requires the individual’s passport details and a separate photo.

Do babies and infants need an ETA?

Yes. Every person travelling to the UK needs their own ETA, regardless of age. Even newborn babies must have their own passport and a corresponding ETA. The parent or guardian completes the application and takes the photo on behalf of the child.

My child has a different surname — will this cause problems?

No. The ETA is linked to the individual’s passport, not to family relationships. Children with different surnames from their parents will not face issues as long as their ETA matches their own passport exactly. However, when travelling with children who have different surnames, it is advisable to carry proof of your relationship (such as a birth certificate) to avoid questions at the border.

Arrival and Border Questions

What happens when I arrive at the UK border?

When you arrive in the UK, your passport is scanned at passport control. The system automatically checks that you have a valid ETA. If you are eligible to use the e-gates (automated passport gates), the process is quick and often takes less than a minute. If you go through a staffed border control desk, the officer will verify your ETA electronically.

Can I use the e-gates with my ETA?

Yes, in most cases. E-gates are available for travellers aged 10 and over with biometric passports from eligible countries. Most ETA-eligible nationalities can use e-gates at UK airports. Simply scan your passport at the gate, look at the camera for facial recognition, and proceed through when the gate opens.

Do I need to show proof of accommodation or return ticket?

While the ETA application does not require proof of accommodation or a return ticket, Border Force officers may ask about your travel plans at the point of entry. It is good practice to have the following information available:

• Your accommodation address in the UK
• Return or onward travel booking
• Proof of sufficient funds for your stay
• Purpose of your visit

Can I be refused entry even with a valid ETA?

Yes. A UK ETA grants you permission to travel to the UK, but entry is ultimately at the discretion of the Border Force officer. In rare cases, travellers with valid ETAs may be refused entry if the officer believes they do not meet the conditions of entry (for example, if they suspect you intend to work illegally or overstay). This is uncommon for genuine tourists with clear travel plans.

ETA and Other UK Territories

Does my UK ETA cover the Crown Dependencies?

The UK ETA covers travel to England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. The Crown Dependencies (Jersey, Guernsey, and the Isle of Man) have their own immigration policies. Check the specific requirements for these territories before travelling, as they may differ from UK mainland rules.

Can I travel to Ireland with a UK ETA?

No. The Republic of Ireland is a separate country with its own immigration system. A UK ETA does not grant entry to Ireland, and vice versa. However, there are no routine immigration checks on the land border between Northern Ireland (UK) and the Republic of Ireland due to the Common Travel Area arrangement.

Official Sources & References

1. UK Government — Apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)
2. UK Home Office — ETA Factsheet & Eligibility
3. UK Government — Photo Requirements for Official Documents
4. UK Visas and Immigration — Contact UKVI
5. Visit Britain — Entry Requirements

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the UK ETA application take to complete?

The online application typically takes 5-10 minutes if you have your passport and travel details ready. Most applications receive a decision within minutes, though some may take up to 72 hours if additional checks are required.

Can I save my UK ETA application and finish it later?

No, the UK ETA application must be completed in a single session. Once you start, you should complete all questions and submit payment before closing the app or browser. Make sure you have all required information before beginning.

What happens if I make a mistake on my UK ETA application?

If your ETA is rejected due to an error, you can submit a new application with corrected information. If the ETA has already been approved with incorrect details, you may need to apply for a new one, as there is currently no way to edit an approved ETA.

Do I need to print my UK ETA confirmation?

No, the UK ETA is linked electronically to your passport. You don’t need to carry any printed documents. However, it’s advisable to save your confirmation email or take a screenshot of your ETA reference number for your records.

Conclusion

The UK ETA application is designed to be straightforward, but knowing the answers to common questions before you start makes the process even smoother. Apply well in advance of your travel date, ensure your passport is valid, and answer all questions honestly.

For the complete step-by-step application guide, visit our article on how to apply for UK ETA online in 2026. For the latest official information, check the UK Government ETA page and our comprehensive UK ETA FAQ.