UK visa resources
UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) explained
How the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) works — who needs one, journeys and validity, and how it differs from a visa — with the official gov.uk guidance.
Important
The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a digital permission to travel to the UK for people who do not need a visa for short visits. This page explains the scheme in plain language, drawing on the official gov.uk guidance; always confirm whether you need an ETA or a visa for your nationality on the official pages.
What an ETA is (and is not)
An ETA is a digital travel authorisation linked to your passport. It is not a visa, and having one does not guarantee entry to the UK — a Border Force officer still decides whether you can enter.
Who needs one
An ETA is for people who do not need a visa to visit the UK for short stays of up to 6 months — for example many travellers from Europe, the USA, Australia, Canada and certain other countries. Check your nationality on the official gov.uk pages.
Journeys and validity
According to gov.uk, an ETA lets you make multiple journeys to the UK for stays of up to 6 months at a time, and is valid for around two years or until your passport expires. The fee is stated as £20. Confirm the current fee and validity on the official page before you apply.
Next steps
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official sources · last reviewed 2026-08-10. Information only — not legal advice.