The biggest recent update for the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is its full enforcement: from February 25, 2026, all eligible non-visa nationals (including EU/US/Canadians) will need an ETA to travel to the UK, with no more grace period, and carriers must check it before boarding, marking a shift to mandatory digital pre-screening for smoother, faster travel but stricter border control.
The UK ETA is required for travelers from the following regions:
Nationals from the Gulf region must apply for the UK ETA before traveling to the UK. These include citizens of:
UAE
Saudi Arabia
Kuwait
Bahrain
Oman
Qatar
If you’re a citizen of any of these nations and plan to visit the UK for tourism, business, or any other short-term activity, you must apply for a UK ETA before you travel.
Citizens from non-European countries may also be required to apply for a UK ETA, depending on their nationality and current UK entry policies. If you’re from a non-European country and planning to visit the UK, check the eligibility criteria on our website to determine whether you need an ETA.
Some European countries are exempt from the UK ETA requirement, depending on the latest UK immigration policies. Travelers from these countries may continue to enter the UK without needing an ETA. Please refer to the specific guidelines for your nationality.
Applying for the UK ETA is easy and can be done entirely online. Here’s how to apply:
Visit the Application Page: Go to etauk.ae.
Complete the Application Form: Fill in your personal details, passport information, and travel dates. The form is quick and easy to complete.
Upload Your Photo: Submit a recent passport-style photograph that meets UK entry requirements.
Payment: Securely pay the application fee using a credit or debit card.
Submit: After completing the form and making payment, submit your application for processing.
The UK ETA is processed quickly, usually within 1 to 3 business days. However, it’s always advisable to apply well in advance of your travel date to ensure timely approval. Once approved, the ETA is electronically linked to your passport.
For detailed information regarding the cost of the UK ETA and any specific requirements based on your nationality, please contact us directly at etauk.ae. Our team will assist you with the necessary details and guide you through the process.
No Need for Paperwork: The UK ETA is linked to your passport, eliminating the need for extra documentation when entering the UK.
Fast and Simple: The application process is quick, and approval is typically granted within 1 to 3 days.
Multiple Entries: The ETA is valid for two years, allowing multiple visits during that period.
Digital System: The ETA is managed entirely online, making it convenient for travelers from the UAE and GCC to apply without needing to visit an embassy or consulate.
Every Traveler Needs an ETA: Each traveler, including children and infants, must have their own individual ETA.
Entry is Not Guaranteed: The UK ETA authorizes you to board your flight, but final admission is determined by UK border control officers upon arrival.
Apply in Advance: While the approval process is typically quick, applying in advance is highly recommended to avoid any travel delays.
At etauk.ae, we make the UK ETA application process as smooth and straightforward as possible. Our platform is designed for ease of use, ensuring that you can apply for your ETA quickly and securely, from the comfort of your home. We are dedicated to providing personalized support and ensuring that your application is processed efficiently.
Established in the year 2022, our travel agency, etauk.ae was born out of a deep passion for creating exceptional and unforgettable journeys for travelers. Our main goal has always been to design personalized travel plans that go beyond what our clients expect.
