Traveling to the United Kingdom (UK) involves more than just booking flights and packing bags. Travelers must apply for either an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) or a visa, depending on the visitors’ travelers’ nationality, the purpose of the visit, and the length of stay.
Since its departure from the European Union (EU) and the introduction of the ETA scheme, non-British citizens and residents cannot just get on a plane bound for the UK. However, contrary to what others think, an ETA is not a visa.
Learning about the ETA or visa is crucial to ensuring a hassle-free visit to the UK. This guide will help you answer key questions about the UK ETA and UK visa so you can make an informed decision before your journey.
Questions to ask when choosing between an ETA or visa
When choosing between an ETA or a visa, travelers can ask essential questions to help make their choices clearer. Here are key questions to ask.
1. What is my nationality?
Eligibility for a UK ETA depends on your nationality.
Who needs a UK ETA?
Travelers from visa-exempt countries, including EU nations, the United States, Canada, and Australia, need an ETA. These are countries with visa waiver status with the UK. Their citizens do not need a visa to visit the UK.
Citizens of select countries in the Gulf bloc have been using the ETA since November 2023 for Qatar and February 2024 for Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Starting 8 January 2025, non-visa nationals from outside Europe must have an ETA before visiting the UK. The ETA system has been open to receiving their applications since 27 November 2024.
On 5 March 2025, ETA applications will open for European nationals. They must have an ETA when traveling to the UK beginning 2 April 2025.
Citizens of Ireland do not need a UK ETA or visa due to the Common Travel Area (CTA) agreement.
Who needs a visa?
Nationals from visa-required countries like India, China, and most of Africa must apply for a visa, even for short visits.
2. What is the purpose of my trip?
The reason for a traveler’s visit plays a significant role in determining whether you need a UK ETA or a visa.
For short-term visits of up to six months
The UK ETA is designed for travelers visiting for tourism, permitted business activities, or transit. It also covers brief study courses lasting up to six months, as well as the Creative Worker visa concession.
For work, long-term study, settlement
Those planning to work, pursue a long-term academic program, or live in the UK would require an appropriate visa. ETAs do not permit employment or extended studies.
For example, a UK ETA might suffice if one is traveling to London for a two-week vacation. However, if one plans to move to the UK for a job, they will need a visa.
There are several types of UK visas.
Work and Business
Various visas are available for work or business and are issued based on a points system or specific skills. Validity periods vary by visa type.
Study
International students must obtain a Student visa for the entire duration of their course or program in the UK.
Family
Depending on personal circumstances, a Spouse, Parent, or Child visa is required for visits lasting six months or more.
Visitors
Visitor visas are typically issued for brief vacations, rarely exceeding six months. However, there are visitor visas that allow for longer stays.
Transit
A Transit visa is needed for brief stays at airports or seaports, with specific types for airside access or further travel within the UK.
Settlement
Indefinite Leave to Remain, or a Settlement visa, is for foreign nationals who have lived in the UK temporarily and wish to stay permanently.
Refugee
Applications for refugee status must be submitted upon arrival in the UK. Temporary grants can be provided for up to six years while the case is under review.
3. How long do I plan to stay in the UK?
The duration of a traveler’s stay determines the type of travel authorization required. Short-term visitors with simple travel plans may find the UK ETA more convenient if they are eligible. Longer stays or specialized purposes require a visa, even for ETA-eligible visitors.
ETA or visa application process
While both are pre-travel documents for visiting the UK, the ETA is not a visa. The ETA permits travel to the UK, while a visa permits entry or stay into the UK.
The ETA is designed to streamline travel for non-visa nationals, making the application process easier and faster than a UK visa.
UK ETA Application
Applying for an ETA is entirely online via the UK Government website or the UK ETA app. Applicants must submit personal details, passport data, and a recent photo. They must also answer security questions and pay for the ETA.
It only costs £10 per application and is automatically linked to travelers’ passports. Applicants typically receive their ETA within three days, give or take. Still, some applications may take longer.
UK Visa Application
A UK visa application involves a more complex process and takes longer to receive a decision. Visa fees also vary and are more expensive. For instance, the ETA-equivalent Standard Visitor visa costs £115.
Applying for a UK visa means completing an online application form on the UK Government website, gathering the required documents, and setting a visa appointment at a visa application center or consulate.
During the visa appointment, applicants must submit their requirements and biometric data and pay the visa fees. Applicants may receive a decision on the visa application in at least three weeks.
Comparison of UK ETA and UK Visa
| Feature | UK ETA | UK Visa |
| Purpose | Tourism, business, short study, transit | Tourism, business, short study, transit, work, study, family, settlement, refugee status |
| Eligibility | Visa-exempt nationalities | Non-visa-exempt nationalities |
| Validity | 2 years or until the passport it is linked to expires | Varies by visa type |
| Stay Duration | Up to 6 months per visit | Longer stays allowed |
| Processing Time | three days, give or take | at least three weeks |
| Application Fee | £10 | Starts at £115 for a Standard Visitor visa |
Choosing the right option
When planning your trip to the UK, asking the right questions can save time, money, and stress. The UK ETA and visa systems are separate and independent of each other. There is currently no option to switch an ETA for a visa, so choose carefully.
For most short-term visitors, the UK ETA is an easy and affordable choice if eligible. However, if all travelers’ plans involve long-term stays, work, or specialized activities, they must apply for a visa.
Always double-check eligibility requirements, timelines, and fees on the official UK Government website to ensure smooth travel preparations.
By understanding your needs and planning ahead, you can focus on enjoying your trip to the UK without unnecessary complications.