What is a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)?

An ETA is an advance travel permission which allows you to travel to the United Kingdom to visit for up to 6 months without a visa. Whether you can apply depends on your nationality.

Most nationals (including European nationals) will need an ETA for entering the UK after 2nd April 2025. Other nationals will still have to apply for a visa. Europeans who need an ETA can apply after 5th March 2025.

The current charge for an ETA is £10 and it’s valid for 2 years. Please note that if you renew your passport in this period you’ll need to apply for a new ETA. It usually takes up to 3 working days to receive your ETA.

Visit the UK government website to see if your nationality is included in the scheme or if you need a visa.

The easiest way to apply for an ETA is via the mobile app (available for Apple and Android devices) listed on the UK Government website. If you cannot apply on your mobile you can also apply online on the same webpage.
Note: There are a lot of websites claiming to offer an ETA service for the UK. We strongly recommend that you use the official routes listed above to avoid scams.

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NILE can only give guidance on what is the most appropriate permission, authorisation or visa for you to enter the UK. Please visit the UK Government website or contact your local British Consulate for information applicable to your own particular circumstances. NILE issues invitation letters for visa applicants where required. Please contact registrar@nile-elt.com for your visa letter when you are ready to apply. This does not apply to course participants who travel to the UK on an ETA.

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