UK ETA for US Citizens

What is the UK ETA?

The “ETA” in UK ETA stands for Electronic Travel Authorization. Specifically, it refers to a digital travel permission to visit the UK for short stays. 

With this in mind, the UK government hopes to enforce stricter border control measures and improve travel to the country. The ETA is set to be fully rolled out in 2024. 

The ETA application process opened on October 25, 2023 for Qatari citizens. Meanwhile, it opened for citizens of Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE on February 1, 2024. In particular, this applies to those traveling to the UK on or after February 22, 2024.

US citizens must apply for a UK ETA if they are planning to visit the UK for short stays.

UK ETA Benefits for US Citizens

Apart from being a new requirement for eligible US citizens visiting the UK, the ETA also presents several key benefits:

1. Multiple-entry flexibility: American travelers can visit the UK multiple times within two years or until their passport expires, whichever comes first. Hence, this provides flexibility for arranging multiple trips without needing to re-apply. 
2. Simple and easy application: Applying for a UK ETA can be accomplished in minutes online. Because of this, it eliminates the need for a physical appearance at a visa application center or consulate.
3. Electronic ease: The UK ETA is electronically linked to the traveler’s passport. Consequently, there is no need to carry a hard copy when traveling to the UK.
4. Improved security: Tighter security measures are in place as travelers go through a pre-screening process. Hence, the ETA promotes greater safety for travelers while complying with regulatory requirements. 

Eligibility for a UK ETA

US travelers must meet the following to qualify for a UK ETA:

1. Nationality: Because the USA is among countries that do not require a UK visa, US citizens may apply for a UK ETA. 
2. Age: Eligible American travelers of all ages, including infants and children, must apply for an ETA.
3. Reason for travel: Under a UK ETA, travelers may perform tourism, visit family and friends, or engage in business activities. They may also seek medical treatment, short-term studies, or work under the Creative Worker visa concession. Additionally, it covers work for a paid engagement or transit through the UK.
4. Length of stay: US citizens can stay up to six months if performing tourism, visiting family and friends, or engaging in business activities. It also covers seeking medical treatment or taking up short-term studies. Meanwhile, those working under the Creative Worker visa concession can stay up to three months in the UK.
5. Criminality: They must not possess a criminal record or should have not committed any immigration breaches in the UK or elsewhere.

You do not need an ETA if you:

1. Have a UK visa
2. Have permission to live, work, or study in the UK
3. Have a British or Irish passport
4. Have a British overseas territories passport
5. Are a legal resident in Ireland 
6. Are entering the UK from Ireland, Guernsey, or the Isle of Man. Meanwhile, for other reasons such as work or long-term study, apply for a visa instead.

UK ETA Requirements

Before embarking on their trip to the UK, US citizens must possess the following requirements to facilitate their smooth application:

1. Valid Biometric Passport: Travelers must have a passport with an electronic microprocessor chip, with a biometric symbol on the front cover.
2. Digital passport photo: Submit a photograph with a plain background, looking directly at the camera with a neutral expression. 
3. Valid e-mail address: The decision for an ETA application is sent to the applicant’s e-mail.
4. Electronic payment methods: You must have Apple Pay, Google Pay, a credit card, or a debit card.

Application Process

Follow the guidelines below:

Step 1: Take or upload the full photo of your passport’s photo page.

Step 2: Scan your face. When applying on someone else’s behalf, do the same. Meanwhile, for applicants nine years old and below, skip this step.

Step 3: Take or upload a photo of yourself against a light-colored, clear background. Remove eye or head coverings, unless your religion or medical condition requires it. Wear a neutral expression. 

If uploading a photo, follow the same requirements. Save it as a JPEG file.

Step 4: Provide the following security-related information: 

1. Address
2. Job
3. Criminal history
4. Other nationalities, if any

If under 18, provide your parent or guardian’s contact information. 

Step 5: Pay GBP 10 for the UK ETA application. Specifically, pay using electronic methods. 

Step 6: Submit the application form.

Step 7: Receive a reference number with your ETA. It will link to your passport digitally.

Reminders: 

1. Complete your application in one go, because you won’t be able to save your progress.
2. The service will automatically time out if you don’t do anything for 20 minutes.
3. The ETA application fee is non-refundable. 
4. You can apply for others.
5. If applying as a group, each person must apply separately.
6. You don’t need to enter your travel details in the online application form.

Tips for a Successful Application

To ensure a successful UK ETA application, plan and prepare carefully. Follow these tips for a smooth and worry-free application.

1. Provide correct information: Errors or discrepancies can result in not being issued a UK ETA.
2. Prepare complete documents: You will need to either scan these or provide information from them in your application.
3. Secure a biometric passport.
4. Apply ahead of time: Submit your application in advance in case of any delays or required additional information.

Ready to apply for a UK ETA? Click the button below to get started.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can you check the status of your UK ETA?

Wait for the e-mail with the decision.

For questions about the ETA, you may contact UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) because it is in charge of processing visas. 

Note: The UKVI only provides general ETA information. Do not contact UKVI until three working days after your application. It is open from Monday to Friday.

Is the UK ETA active?

Yes. Applicants from Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE may already start applying for their ETA. Meanwhile, the UK government has not announced whether other nationalities may start applying for a UK ETA.

How different is the ETA from the e-visa waiver program?

The UK ETA differs from a visa in several ways:

1. Purpose: It covers short-term visits. Meanwhile, a visa covers various purposes such as work, study, and long-term stays.
2. Application Process: It is online and requires less documentation versus a visa.
3. Eligibility: ETAs are available only to citizens of visa-exempt countries, whereas visas are mandatory for countries not on the visa-exempt list.

Can I work with a UK ETA?

No. Apply for a UK work visa instead. 

What if my UK ETA application is denied?

You can reapply or seek a standard visitor visa. Consequently, you may contact the nearest UK embassy or consulate for more information.

Is the UK ETA required for minors?

Yes. If you are a guardian of a child or an infant, apply on their behalf.

What should I do if I change my travel plans?

Update your travel details in your UK ETA application.

Are Electronic Visa Waivers still valid?

ETAs have replaced the Electronic Visa Waiver scheme (EVW). Specifically, this covers citizens of Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia.

Photo by Ferdinand Stöhr on Unsplash