Travel to and through the UK & Northern Ireland

An ETA is linked to your passport and provides entry or transit clearance to the UK & Ireland. It is required for all other travellers who do not hold a traditional visa. Similar to the US Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), the UK ETA enables authorities to pre-screen visitors for improved national security and smoother travel experiences.

Applications after 09 April cost £16. Learn more on the UK Government website.

Your ETA is valid for 2 years from date of approval and you can travel to the UK as much as you want during that time. If you replace your passport during the time your ETA is valid, you will need to apply for a new ETA with your new passport.

ETAs must be made in advance of travel and you will be available to apply for yours at the UK Government website. You will receive an email confirming when your ETA has been approved. An ETA is linked to your passport and Costsaver or your Travel Agent are unable to apply on your behalf. 

1. Purpose: An ETA is generally for short-term stays, such a trip or transit through the country. It allows visa-exempt nationals to enter a country without needing a full visa. A visa, on the other hand, can cover a wide range of purposes, including long-term stays, work, or study, and usually requires a more detailed application process.

2. Application Process: The ETA application process is typically quicker and simpler than that of a visa. ETAs are applied for online, require less documentation, and are often processed in a matter of days. Visa applications, however, may require an in-person interview, more extensive documentation, and can take weeks or months to process.

3. Duration of Stay: An ETA usually grants permission for short visits, typically for 90 days or less, while a visa can allow for longer stays depending on the type (e.g., work, study, or residency visas).

4. Eligibility: ETAs are available to citizens of countries that are typically visa-exempt, allowing them to travel without obtaining a full visa. A visa is required for citizens of countries that do not qualify for visa exemptions or for individuals wishing to stay for longer or different purposes, such as work or study.

In summary, an ETA is a quicker, more streamlined travel authorization meant for short-term visits, while a visa is more comprehensive and may be required for longer stays or specific activities such as employment or study.

The ETA system is part of the UK’s broader post-Brexit immigration reforms. The goal is to better manage who enters the country, streamline border crossings, and improve security by collecting key information about travelers before they arrive. This pre-screening process ensures that both travelers and the UK government can avoid unnecessary complications or delays during entry or transit.