UK ETA Application Guide | Electronic Travel Authorization Application Requirements, Steps and Notes

From January 8, 2025, travelers holding passports from a UK visa-free area who plan to enter the UK for language courses, tourism, business visits or transit for less than 6 months will need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) in advance before entering the country. Hong Kong citizens entering the country with BNO passports also need to apply; holders of BNO visas ("5+1 Scheme") are exempt. If you already have a local residence visa, you do not need to apply for an ETA separately.

The UK Electronic Travel Document (ETA) is a digital document announced by the UK government for global visa-free travelers, similar to the US Electronic Travel Authorization System (ESTA). In addition to simplifying the pre-entry review process for visa-free tourists, this move will also allow local governments to identify potential risks before travelers arrive, thereby strengthening entry channels and national security.

Application fee: £10 (approximately HK$98) per application

Validity period: 2 years (you can enter and exit multiple times during this period, if you change your passport, you must reapply)

Applicable to: Studying in the UK for less than 6 months (language courses), tourism, business visits, and transit

ETA application is divided into multiple stages. The countries and regions that currently need to apply for ETA are:

• Asia: Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (including British National Overseas (BNO) passport holders), Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Taiwan, Malaysia, etc.
• Other regions: Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Australia, Bahamas, Barbados, Canada, New Zealand, the United States, etc.

From April 2, 2025, countries and regions that need to apply for ETA to enter the UK:

• Citizens of European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA) countries, such as Belgium, France, Germany, Italy and Spain

Exempt persons

• British or Irish passport holders
• People who have been granted a valid UK visa, or have the right to live, work or study in the UK
• Dual British or Irish citizens

• Download the UK ETA app on your phone (iOS or Android) or go to the UK government ETA website
• According to the official website, using a mobile app can complete the application faster and the waiting time is also shorter
• Take a photo or upload your passport page as instructed
• Scan your face, upload a photo and answer questions
• Complete payment
• ETA will be issued within 3 working days

Although the UK ETA is valid for two years, the holder cannot stay in the UK for more than 6 months at a time and cannot engage in paid or unpaid work without permission. Visitors are also unable to claim public funds or benefits, nor can they reside in the UK on frequent or continuous visits. Having an ETA does not necessarily mean that you can enter the UK. Local officials have the final say on whether to allow or deny entry. Travelers must also present the passport used for the ETA application upon arrival.