Navigating the new UK ETA application process: A step-by-step guide

Are you planning a trip to the United Kingdom? From April 2025, most international visitors will need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before entering the country.

Our comprehensive UK ETA guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the UK ETA application process, common mistakes to avoid, and how to make your trip as smooth as possible.

What is the UK ETA and who needs one?

The UK ETA is a digital travel permit designed to streamline the entry process for short stays in the United Kingdom. By April 2025, all visitors who don’t need a visa will need an ETA to travel to the UK.

The phased rollout started with Qatar in November 2023, followed by Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates in February 2024.

In all, 49 countries, including the USA, Canada, Australia and Japan, will require an ETA starting January 8, 2025. All European Union countries will then be added to the requirement on April 2, 2025.

Step-by-step guide to the UK ETA application process

Here’s what to expect when applying on the UK government website: Step 1: Create an account and log in

Visit the official UK government website to begin your application. Create an account using a valid email address and password. You can also download the app.

Step 2: Upload or take a photo of your passport

Submit a recent photograph and a scan of your passport. Ensure that the photo meets the UK Government’s requirements for clarity and size. When you apply with us, we'll make sure your photo matches government requirements.

Step 3: Provide personal information and passport details

You’ll need to accurately fill out your personal information, including your name, date of birth and passport details. Make sure to double-check for any typos or incorrect data, as this could lead to delays or rejection.

Step 4: Scan your face

To prove you're a real person, you’ll need to scan your face using the camera on your device. You can skip this step if you don't have a camera on the device you're using for the application.

Step 5: Submit a photo of yourself

Upload a recent photo of yourself - this must be no more than 3 months old and be different to your passport photo. Alternatively, you can use your device's camera to take a photo. Ensure your photo meets the requirements to avoid any issues.

Step 6: Provide a security code

Enter your email address to receive a 6-digit security code. You'll have to submit this to continue the application.

Step 7: Give further personal information and contact details

You'll be asked to provide further personal details including your full name, phone number and address, plus your nationality and employment status.

Step 8: Answer security-related questions

The application will ask a series of security-related questions, including details of any criminal history. Be honest and detailed in your responses to avoid any complications later.

Step 9: Check your answers

You'll be presented with all the information you've given in your application. Be sure to check this thoroughly to maximise your chances of approval.

Step 10: Give a declaration

Confirm that all the information you have given is correct. Note that if you provide any false information, your application could be rejected, and you could be prosecuted or even banned from the UK.

Step 10: Pay the fee

Payment can be made online using a credit or debit card.

Step 11: Submit your application

Once all the details are filled in and the documents are uploaded, submit your application. You’ll receive a confirmation email with your application details.

Step 12: Wait for processing

• The UK government aims to process most ETA applications within 3 working days. Some applications might take longer if additional checks are necessary. If you apply through iVisa and choose our super-rush option, we can get you your visa in as little as 24 hours
• You can log in to your account at any time to check the status of your application

Step 13: Receive your ETA

• Once approved, your ETA will be digitally linked to your passport. You’ll receive an email confirmation, which you should keep for your records.
• If you applied through iVisa, we’ll provide additional support and documentation.

How to make your UK ETA application easier

You can apply for a UK ETA through the UK government website or through a travel document specialist like iVisa. Our service brings several advantages, including:

• Higher acceptance rate: We’ll review your application to ensure it meets all requirements

• Saving time: Skip the hassle of navigating government websites and forms

• Extra support: Get assistance throughout the application process

• Take your time: You can pause your application and resume whenever you want without losing your progress. Instead, the government is one shot and clears after 20 min without activity. If you close or exceed the time limit, you’ll have to start over

• Human customer service: iVisa has human customer service agents available 24/7. The government only has a chatbot available for users

• Multiple applicants: With iVisa, our customers can apply for +1 person in the same process; in the government platform, it has to be done by 1 applicant at a time (from start to finish, including payments)

• Passport scan: To upload your passport information with iVisa, you don’t need a phone with NFC enabled. Plus, our experts review your applications to ensure everything is compliant with government standards. At iVisa we have an easier passport scan upload process than the government web and app

• Fewer steps: Complete your application in fewer steps, with no need for face scanning or a security code

• Payment methods: Use your favorite payment method, we have plenty of options: Paypal, Venmo, Google Pay, Apple Pay, and credit/debit card. The government only offers Google Pay, and credit/debit cards

Common mistakes to avoid

1. Incorrect passport information

It’s important that all details match your passport exactly, including name spelling and passport number.

2. Poor quality photos

Submit high-quality photos that meet the specified requirements. Blurry or low-resolution images can cause delays.

3. Incomplete applications

Answer all questions thoroughly and accurately. Missing information can lead to application rejection.

Challenges of applying for a UK ETA through the UK Government website

Applying directly via the UK government website brings with it some potential challenges, including:

• You can't save your progress:

The government’s app and website often time out, meaning you'll need to complete your application in one go since you can't save and return to it later.

• The application is only available in English:

If English isn’t your first language, the questions can be confusing, which could lead to mistakes and a possible rejection.

• It’s difficult for families:

Only one person at a time can apply, so if you're applying for a family, each application must be filled out and paid for separately.

• Reported passport scan issues:

Many applicants report the app and website have trouble recognizing passport information.

• Reported payment problems: Declined payments are another commonly reported issue.

• No customer support: If your application is rejected, there’s not much you can do except reapply, as the UK Government doesn't offer support for denied ETAs.

Why apply with iVisa?

At iVisa, we’ve been simplifying visa applications for over 10 years. We make the UK ETA process easy and increase your chances of success. Our customer service team is always ready to help with any questions about traveling to the UK or the ETA application.

• Fast & easy: Apply for your UK ETA faster than the government process, with fewer steps, no face scanning, and no security codes required.
• Skip the line: You can Apply for your UK ETA in minutes without lengthy government forms.
• Save your session: Start, pause, and resume your application without losing any progress. Language flexibility: Apply in your preferred language – not just English –so you can complete your application with ease.
• Passport upload made easy: No NFC phone required – our passport scanning is simple, reliable, and works with any mobile phone or laptop with a camera.
• Apply for everyone at once: Easily add multiple travelers in one process- there is no need to completely start all over for each person individually.

Contact us any time via our customer service agents via chat or WhatsApp.

I've traveled to the UK over the last 20 years, and it has always been a complicated process to get an entry visa – to the extent that one time we thought of canceling our trip. The new iVisa system makes it so easy to apply and fast.

• Mohammad, Saudi Arabia

Frequently asked questions

Can I apply for a UK ETA on behalf of my family?

Yes, if you’re an adult, you can apply for a UK ETA on behalf of family members, including children. However, each traveler must have their own individual ETA.

How do I apply for a UK ETA if I don't have a smartphone?

If you don't have a smartphone, you can apply for a UK ETA online through the official government website or iVisa’s application portal. The application process is the same as on mobile.

What if I make a mistake in my application?

If you notice a mistake in your application before submitting it, you can go back and correct the information. However, once the application is submitted, you'll need to contact the UK Home Office to request changes. If applying with iVisa, our team offers support to help make sure your application is accepted first time.

Can I get a refund if my application is denied?

No, there are no refunds if your UK ETA application is denied. You'll need to address the reason for denial and reapply if you still wish to travel to the UK. If you apply through iVisa we can help you every step of the way.

How will I receive my ETA?

If your application is approved, you'll receive an email confirmation. Your ETA will be linked electronically to the passport you used in the application.

Contact us for more info about your UK ETA application

We're ready to help if you have any questions or concerns about the UK ETA. Reach out to our customer service agents via chat or WhatsApp.