United Kingdom entry requirements can include passport checks, visa rules, Electronic Travel Authorisation, permitted length of stay and travel purpose checks. This page gives you a clear overview before traveling to the UK and links to the dedicated UK ETA guide when you need more detail.
Travelers entering the United Kingdom must check whether they need a visa, an Electronic Travel Authorisation, or another form of permission before travel.
Many visitors who do not need a visa for short stays may need a UK ETA before traveling. The requirement depends on nationality, travel purpose, immigration status and route.
For a full explanation of the electronic travel authorisation, read the dedicated UK ETA guide.
ETA means Electronic Travel Authorisation. It is a digital permission to travel to the United Kingdom for eligible visitors.
The UK ETA is not a visa. It does not guarantee entry into the UK. Border officers make the final decision when you arrive.
Travelers should use the official GOV.UK website or the official UK ETA app when submitting personal and passport information.
UK entry rules depend on your nationality, travel document, immigration status, travel purpose and planned length of stay. Some travelers need a visa, while others may need an ETA for short visits.
An ETA can be used for certain visits of up to 6 months, including tourism, visiting family or friends, some business activities and short-term study, depending on the official rules.
The UK ETA does not extend your stay and does not replace a visa when a visa is required.
Before traveling to the UK, check that your passport is valid and matches the passport used for your ETA or visa application.
The UK ETA is linked to your passport. If you get a new passport, you may need a new ETA before traveling.
Each traveler, including children, must have the correct travel document and permission if required.
Travelers may enter the UK by air, ferry, train, coach or other routes. Carriers may check whether you have the correct travel permission before boarding.
If you travel through the Common Travel Area, or if your route includes Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey or the Isle of Man, check the official guidance carefully before departure.
Do not assume that airline boarding rules and border entry rules are identical.
Use official UK government websites when checking entry requirements or submitting travel information. This is especially important when a form asks for passport details, travel dates, contact details, a photo or payment information.
The official UK ETA page is linked from this site for convenience, but travelers should always verify the GOV.UK domain before entering personal data.
Common mistakes include confusing ETA with a visa, applying through unofficial paid websites, using the wrong passport, assuming that ETA guarantees entry, or waiting until the last minute.
Prepare your passport, travel dates, accommodation details, contact information, payment method and visa or ETA status before departure.
It depends on your nationality, travel purpose, immigration status and length of stay. Some travelers need a visa, while others may need a UK ETA for short visits.
Many travelers who do not need a visa for short stays may need a UK ETA before traveling. You should check the official GOV.UK ETA page for your nationality and situation.
No. The UK ETA is an electronic travel authorisation. It is not a visa and does not guarantee entry into the United Kingdom.
Check your passport, visa or ETA status, travel purpose, permitted length of stay, onward travel, accommodation details and carrier boarding rules.
You should use official UK government websites, including GOV.UK, when checking entry rules or submitting ETA or visa information.