International travel is changing fast.

As countries tighten entry rules and introduce new requirements, it has become more important than ever to understand what is needed before takeoff.

One of the most significant updates for 2025 is the new Electronic Travel Authorization for travel to the United Kingdom, also known as the UK ETA.

As of January 8, 2025, travelers from select countries – including the United States – must apply for an ETA before entering the UK for tourism, business, or short visits. This new requirement is part of the effort of the UK to improve border security and keep better track of who is coming and going.

At first glance, this extra step might feel like a hassle. But the good news is that the UK ETA is simple to apply for and fast to receive.

I recently traveled to London for work and completed the process myself. The entire application took just a few minutes, and I received approval in less than one minute.

In this guide, I will walk you through the ETA process step by step. You will learn how to apply, what to expect, and how to get ready for your trip to the UK – stress-free and fully prepared.

What Is The UK ETA

The United Kingdom Electronic Travel Authorization (UK ETA) is a new entry requirement for citizens of visa-exempt countries, including the United States.

As of 2025, travelers who previously only needed a passport to enter the UK must now apply for an ETA before boarding their flight.

The UK ETA is not a visa. It is a digital pre-screening system similar to the U.S. ESTA or the upcoming ETIAS for the European Union (EU). The UK government calls it a visa waiver.

Its purpose is to strengthen border security while making the arrival process more efficient. By completing security checks before travel, the ETA helps reduce delays at UK entry points.

Each ETA costs £10 (about $13 USD) and is valid for two years from the date of approval. During that time, you can enter the UK multiple times for short stays – including tourism, family visits, business, or study – without needing to reapply.

Who Needs A UK ETA

The UK ETA is required for travelers from visa-exempt countries who plan to visit the United Kingdom for a short stay. This includes:

• Citizens of visa-exempt countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and more than 45 others. See the full list HERE.
• All travelers, regardless of age – including children and infants.
• Visitors staying up to six months for tourism, business, family visits, or short-term study.

UK ETA Rollout Timeline

The UK government has introduced the ETA in phases:

• Late 2024: First launched for nationals of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.
• January 8, 2025: Expanded to travelers from non-European visa-exempt countries, including the United States.
• April 2, 2025: EU citizens are now also required to apply for an ETA before entering the UK.

Who Does Not Need A UK ETA

Some groups are exempt from the ETA requirement:

• UK and Irish citizens.
• Current UK residents with a valid visa or immigration status.
• Travelers who require a visa for entry (they will follow the visa process instead and do not need an ETA as well).

How To Apply For The UK ETA

Applying for a UK ETA is a quick and user-friendly process.

The UK government recommends completing the application on a smartphone using the UK ETA app, which is available on both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. You can also apply via desktop if needed.

I recently applied for my own ETA while planning a work trip to London using the UK ETA app.

Here is exactly how the process works:

Step 1: Download The UK ETA App

Search for “UK ETA” in the app store of your device and download the official app. Once your ETA is approved, you can delete the app – there is no need to present the approval upon arrival.

Credit. Google Play Store. UK ETA App Page.

Your ETA is digitally linked to your passport.

Step 2: Start The Application

After agreeing to the privacy notice, enter your email address and phone number.

Credit. UK ETA App. Email Page.

These are used to send status updates, including your approval notification.

Step 3: Enter Passport Details

If your passport has a biometric chip, the app will prompt you to scan it.

Credit. UK ETA App. Biometric Chip Page.

Simply take a photo of the passport information page, then hold the passport against your phone to read the chip – similar to contactless payment.

Credit. UK ETA App. Passport Photo Page.

Credit. UK ETA App. Passport Scan Page.

If this step fails (as it did for me), you can manually input your passport information.

Credit. UK ETA App. Chip Not Found Page.

This manual entry is fast and just as effective.

Step 4: Take A Selfie

The app will guide you through taking a selfie to match your photo with the image in your passport. Tips include using natural lighting, avoiding background clutter, and keeping your face clearly visible.

Credit. UK ETA App. Photo Instructions.

Step 5: Fill In Personal Information

You will then enter the following details:

• Home address
• Nationalities
• Employment status (plus a list of any current jobs)
• Criminal convictions, if applicable
• Answers to security questions about war crimes, terrorism, or extremist group involvement

Be careful to read these questions closely. Incorrect answers, even by mistake, can lead to delays or denial of your ETA.

Step 6: Review And Declare

You will confirm that all information is accurate and truthful, then proceed to payment.

Step 7: Pay The ETA Fee

The ETA costs £10 (about $13 USD). Payment options include:

• Visa
• Mastercard
• American Express
• Apple Pay
• Google Pay

TPA Pro Tip: I used The Business Platinum Card® from American Express to earn points toward a sign-up bonus, but also recommend using the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card.

Step 8: Get Confirmation

Once submitted, you will receive an email confirming that your application is under review.

Credit. Hunter Threadgill. ETA Processing Email.

In my case, I submitted my ETA at 3:51 PM – and received my approval email less than one minute later.

Credit. Hunter Threadgill. ETA Approved Email.

Tips For Completing The UK ETA Application

The UK ETA is one of the easiest travel authorizations you will ever apply for – but a few tips can help make the process even smoother:

• Apply Early. Even though my ETA was approved in under a minute, the official processing time can take up to 3 business days. In rare cases, approvals have taken over three weeks. To stay safe, apply at least one month before your departure date.
• Complete It In One Sitting. The UK ETA app will time out and delete your progress if you do not finish the application within 30 minutes. To avoid having to start over, make sure you have the following ready:
  • Your passport
  • Access to your email address
  • A clear, neutral background for your selfie
• Apply For Others If Needed. If you are traveling with children, elderly family members, or others who may need help, you can submit their applications on their behalf. You can use the same email address for multiple applications, since each ETA is linked directly to the individual’s passport.
• Skip The Chip If It Fails. Some smartphones do not work well with passport biometric chip scanning. I tried three times and could not get mine to scan. If it fails once, go straight to the manual entry option. It is quick, accurate, and avoids frustration.

UK ETA FAQs

• What happens if my UK ETA is denied?

• • If your application is denied, you cannot travel to the UK under the visa waiver program. You may need to apply for a standard UK visa instead. The rejection notice will include next steps and appeal options.

• Can I update my ETA after it is approved?

• • No. If any of your personal details change – such as your passport number, name, or nationality – you must apply for a new ETA.

• Do I need to print anything for UK border control?

• • No printout is needed. Your ETA is electronically linked to your passport, and UK border agents can access it digitally.

• Can I reapply if my ETA expires?

• • Yes. You can reapply once your ETA expires or if you receive a new passport.

• Can I use the same ETA for multiple trips?

• • Yes. The UK ETA is valid for two years or until your passport expires – whichever comes first – and allows for multiple entries during that time.

Final Thoughts

The UK ETA may be a new requirement, but it is one of the easiest travel authorizations to complete.

With a simple application process, fast approval times, and a low cost, the ETA ensures that your entry into the United Kingdom is as smooth as possible.

By applying early, preparing your documents, and using the official UK ETA app, you can complete the process in minutes and avoid any last-minute travel stress.

Whether you are visiting London for a weekend getaway or exploring the countryside on a longer trip, the ETA is your digital ticket to unforgettable experiences.

Safe travels – and enjoy every moment of your time in the UK!

Hunter Threadgill