Mandatory UK ETA for travelers from Singapore to the UK

If you’re a Singaporean traveling to the UK, you will need a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (UK ETA).

No stress. At iVisa, we will handle your paperwork so you can plan your trip.

What is the UK ETA, and why do Singaporeans need it?

Brexit has changed how people travel, with the effects even being felt up and down the Straits of Malacca. Since that fateful day in 2016, the UK government has been working to better control its borders.

The UK ETA is the latest attempt to achieve just that, much to the irritation of travelers worldwide.

💡iVisa pro tip:

In a hurry? Our Rush and Super Rush services will help you get your UK ETA quickly. Perfect for that spontaneous trip to the United Kingdom.

The ETA is not a traditional visa, it's an electronic permission to enter the United Kingdom. Citizens of Singapore will need to get this authorisation before visiting the United Kingdom.

At first glance, the application may seem easy, but many ETAs are rejected due to tiny mistakes, government website glitches, or timeouts from the UK online portal.

We suggest you take care while filling out the application form and use stable wifi.

💡iVisa pro tip: Poor-quality passport photos are one of the leading causes of a denied UK ETA. To avoid this, use our mobile app or platform.

How long is the UK ETA valid for Singaporeans?

There’s some good news rolling over the dales and valleys of Albion: your ETA will be valid for 2 years or until your passport expires.

During those 2 years, you may visit the UK multiple times for a total period of up to 6 months.

💡iVisa pro tip:

The UK ETA is linked to your passport number. If your passport number changes due to a new passport, you’ll have to reapply for your UK ETA, even within the two-year period of validity.

Do children need an ETA?

Yes, everyone traveling from Singapore to the UK will need their own ETA, regardless of age.

💡iVisa pro tip:

The UK app does not allow group applications. You’ll have to complete each application independently, which increases the chance of a costly mistake slipping in.

If applying for a group use our mobile app or platform.

🗨️ Catherine Thurtle, iVisa travel expert, advises: "Traveling without an approved ETA will result in denied boarding or entry at the UK border. If you need one urgently, we offer expedited processing to help you get it on time."

Can Singaporeans still travel to the UK without a visa?

Singaporeans traveling to the UK for business or tourism no longer enjoy complete visa-free access. Instead, the UK government has added another layer of red tape to your travel plans. While you won’t need a visa, you will require a UK ETA.

Not to worry, though. Our user-friendly platform and mobile app reduce application time and streamline the process.

How to apply for a UK ETA

Applying for a UK ETA is a straightforward online process:

1️⃣ Fill out the application form: Provide personal details, passport information, and your intended travel dates.

2️⃣ Answer security questions: Some applicants may need to provide additional information for screening purposes.

3️⃣ Pay the fee: This covers the UK government fee and iVisa's processing charge.

🎯 Receive your ETA via email: Most applications are processed within 24 hours.

Apply now

Why journey with iVisa?

At iVisa, we believe travelers should collect memories, not paperwork. That’s why we’ve spent the last decade becoming the leading authority on travel documents worldwide.

By choosing iVisa, you're not just applying for a visa; you're investing in peace of mind and significantly increasing your chances of approval. Our team is dedicated to making your UK travel dreams a reality, providing personalized support every step of the way. We offer:

Higher acceptance rate compared to the government app
Fewer steps compared to the government app
Time saving: No queues, no labyrinthine government websites, and no vague forms
Application support: Our support team is ready to assist you with the application process
User-friendly: Unlike the government app, you can pause and resume your application without losing progress. No time limit will cause your application to ‘time out.’
Apply for multiple applicants: If you're traveling as a family or group, you can apply for more than one person at a time. If you’re stuck using the government app, you’ll have to fill out each application independently from start to finish

Why apply via iVisa vs the UK Government?

How long does it take a Singaporean to get an ETA?

The typical processing time for an ETA is 72 hours, with some applicants receiving their documents within 24 hours. However, it is best to apply well in advance to avoid any nasty surprises.

💡iVisa pro tip: Mind the language gap! Our research shows that misunderstandings or poor translations account for many rejections. That’s why we at iVisa support 14 languages on our application.

What do Singaporeans need to apply for a UK ETA?

To apply for the ETA, you’ll need the following:

A biometric passport (valid for the duration of your stay)
A recent passport-style photo (digital upload)
A debit or credit card to pay the fee

💡

Read 6 things the UK Government won't tell you about the new UK ETA

UK travel tips for Singaporeans

⌚ Apply before that spontaneous trip: You won't be able to get an ETA on arrival and try to apply at least 72 hours in advance. Although iVisa can help with our Super-Rush option.

👀 Check your spam folder. Your ETA approval email may land in junk mail.

❌ No work without a visa: Even unpaid freelance work can cause trouble at the border.

✅ Keep a screenshot: Your ETA is digital, but having proof speeds up entry if there’s a system glitch.

Frequently asked questions about the UK ETA

Still got some questions? We love inquisitive travelers, so let’s get through these FAQs.

Does an approved ETA guarantee entry into the UK?

No, the ETA allows you to travel to the UK. The UK Border Force will determine your final entry into the country.

What happens if your UK ETA is denied?

The UK ETA may seem easy at a glance, but a steady stream of applications still end up on the ‘rejected’ pile. The most common reasons are:

incomplete or incorrect information.
wrong passport details.
unclear photos.
security concerns.

The good news is that a denial isn’t the end of the road, and you can reapply after addressing the issues. This handy guide will tell you everything you need to know how to deal with a denied UK ETA.

Other entry rules and considerations for the UK

While entering the United Kingdom via plane or Eurostar train is fairly simple, here are some tips to make it smooth and relaxing:

✈️ Return or onward travel: UK border officials may request proof of your return ticket or onward travel arrangements.

🛃 Customs regulations: Be aware of customs allowances and restrictions, especially when bringing goods into the UK.

🗨️Michael Angelo from The Project Kosmos shared his experience:

"Everywhere in the UK they make you take out and separate all liquids from your hand luggage. Pack them into a small transparent bag for easy unpacking."