There’s no shortage of things to see and do throughout the UK, from the historic castles of England to the rugged coastlines of Northern Ireland. If you’re planning a trip to the UK, it’s worth checking whether you need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before you travel.
We know that the information can seem overwhelming, which is why we’ve created this simple guide to understanding the ETA system. Spend less time navigating your travel requirements, and more planning your ideal Celtic Routes trip with our support. Here are the answers to a few questions you might have about the system.
what is the uk eta system?
The ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) system is a way of providing travellers with quick and easy digital permission to enter the UK. It applies to visitors who don’t require a visa for short stays, including tourists, and is different from the UK’s visa requirements. It’s similar to the policies in place for visiting countries such as Canada and Australia. Your ETA will be automatically linked to your passport, so you may be unable to board a plane without it.
Through the ETA system, the UK Government can gain more information about individuals who are entering the country. This makes it a quick and easy way to improve the country’s border security, and prevent anyone who could be a threat from travelling there. If you’ve travelled to countries such as Canada or Australia before, you may be familiar with their similar policies.
who needs an eta?
Eligible visitors from Europe, the United States, Australia, Japan and many other countries can apply for an ETA now. Whether you need an ETA, a visa or neither depends on your nationality and circumstances, so check the current GOV.UK guidance before travelling.
People who do not need an ETA include British and Irish citizens, people with a UK visa, and people with permission to live, work or study in the UK. Check the full GOV.UK exemption guidance because individual circumstances matter. The Home Office’s YouTube channel also provides a helpful summary of the ETA system and application process.
how the eta system works
An ETA application costs £20 and can be used for multiple journeys to the UK for stays of up to six months. It lasts for two years or until the passport used to apply expires, whichever is sooner; if you get a new passport, you’ll need to apply for a new ETA.
Your ETA is linked electronically to your passport, so you don’t need to carry a paper copy. Most applicants receive a decision by email within a day, but GOV.UK says it can take up to three working days.
Apply through the official UK ETA app or online service on GOV.UK. You’ll need the passport you will travel with, a contactable email address and a payment method such as a credit or debit card.
when and where it applies
The ETA requirement is now in force for eligible non-visa nationals, including eligible European travellers. It applies to travel to all parts of the UK, including Northern Ireland. Check the current nationality list on GOV.UK before travelling.
The ETA does not apply to travel to the Republic of Ireland. However, travellers who need an ETA for the UK must have one before entering any part of the UK, including Northern Ireland, unless an exemption applies. Irish citizens do not need an ETA, and eligible residents of Ireland travelling from within the Common Travel Area may also be exempt. Check the current GOV.UK guidance before a combined UK and Ireland itinerary.
practical tips for travellers
GOV.UK says applicants usually receive a decision within a day, but it can take up to three working days. Apply before you travel and leave extra time in case further information is required.
It’s also essential that you provide accurate and up-to-date information when going through the application process. For instance, your digital photo will need to comply with the UK’s rules for passport photos. These requirements include:
- A clear, in-focus photograph
- No digital alterations to the photograph
- No ‘red eye’
- A plain, light background with nothing else in the frame
- A neutral facial expression with your mouth closed
We highly recommend keeping a digital or print copy of your ETA approval email for convenience and easy access during your travel. This will avoid any unnecessary delays, and leave you feeling as prepared as possible for your trip to the UK.
we’re here to ease the process
Applying for an ETA is straightforward once you understand the requirements. We’re here to provide guidance and support for anyone planning their travels under the system so that you can focus on enjoying your Celtic adventure.
Once you understand the entry requirements, you can focus on the journey itself. We’re all about crafting a bespoke experience that you’ll never forget, exploring the great breadth of Celtic gems throughout the nation. Choose between England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, or combine your favourite Celtic regions to experience the very best of the UK.
