The Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW) scheme previously allowed nationals from certain Gulf countries to visit the UK for short stays without applying for a visa. However, the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) has now replaced the EVW, introducing a new system for travellers who do not require a visa but still need permission to enter the UK.
The ETA is a digital authorisation that allows visitors to stay in the UK for up to six months for tourism, business, medical treatment or study. Unlike the EVW, which was single-use, the ETA is valid for two years and permits multiple entries. Initially rolled out for Qatari nationals in 2023, it has since been extended to other Gulf countries and will soon apply to a wider group of travellers, including those from Europe and North America.
Travellers must apply for an ETA before departure, and failure to do so will result in being denied boarding. While the process is intended to be straightforward, mistakes in the application or failure to meet eligibility rules could lead to delays or refusals. Visitors must also ensure they continue to meet the UK’s entry requirements, as the ETA does not guarantee admission at the border.
What is the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) and who needs it?
The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is the UK entry requirement that replaced the Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW) for certain travellers. It is a digital authorisation required for visitors who do not need a visa but must still obtain permission before travelling to the UK. The ETA is valid for two years or until the holder’s passport expires, allowing multiple short-term visits of up to six months for tourism, business, medical treatment, or short-term study.
The ETA was first introduced in November 2023 for Qatari nationals and later extended to citizens of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. In 2025, the scheme will expand to include more countries, including travellers from the United States, Canada, and Europe.
Travellers must apply for an ETA before travelling to the UK. Applications are made online or through the UK ETA app, with a small processing fee. Without an approved ETA, airlines and transport providers will not allow boarding, meaning passengers should apply well in advance of their trip to avoid disruptions. Even with an ETA, entry is still subject to UK Border Force approval upon arrival.
How do I apply for an ETA, and how long does it take?
Applying for an ETA is a fully digital process. Travellers must complete the application online via the official UK government website or the UK ETA mobile app. The process is designed to be quick and simple, typically taking only a few minutes to complete. Applicants must provide:
- Personal details, including passport information
- Travel history and intended purpose of visit
- Biometric data, such as a passport photo
- Payment of the application fee (currently £10)
Most applications receive a decision within 72 hours, but many are approved within minutes. However, applicants are advised to apply well in advance of their travel date to account for any unforeseen delays.
Once approved, the ETA is electronically linked to the traveller’s passport, meaning there is no need to carry additional documentation. If an application is refused, the traveller may need to apply for a UK visitor visa instead.
Does the ETA guarantee entry to the UK?
Having an ETA does not guarantee entry to the UK. While the ETA gives permission to travel, the UK Border Force still has the authority to refuse entry if a traveller does not meet the UK’s entry requirements.
At the border, visitors may be asked questions about their intended stay, financial means, return travel plans, or past immigration history. Any inconsistencies or concerns could result in refusal of entry.
How does the ETA differ from the previous Electronic Visa Waiver?
The ETA has replaced the Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW), which was previously available for nationals of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. The ETA introduces several key changes, compared with the previous electronic visa waiver system. Unlike the EVW, which was single-use, the ETA is valid for two years and allows multiple visits. The EVW required a separate application for each trip, whereas the ETA can be used for multiple entries. The ETA scheme is being expanded to include more nationalities, not just GCC countries.
The ETA is cheaper than the EVW, costing £10 per application, compared to the EVW’s £30 fee per visit.
Despite these advantages, ETA holders must still meet UK entry requirements and may be refused entry if their travel history or purpose of visit raises concerns with UK immigration officials.
What happens if my ETA application is refused?
If an ETA application is refused, the traveller will not be allowed to board their flight, ferry, or train to the UK. In such cases, they may need to apply for a standard UK visitor visa instead.
ETA refusals typically occur for reasons such as:
- Incomplete or incorrect application details
- A history of UK immigration violations (e.g., overstaying a previous visa)
- Past criminal convictions that may impact eligibility
- Security concerns flagged during background checks
Applicants who believe their refusal was incorrect may reapply, ensuring that all information is accurate. However, if there are underlying issues such as immigration breaches or criminal history, it may be necessary to seek legal advice before attempting to visit the UK again.
Can I work or study in the UK with an ETA?
The ETA does not allow visitors to work in the UK. Travellers must apply for a work visa if they intend to take up employment. However, business-related activities such as attending meetings, interviews, and conferences are permitted.
For study, visitors can take short courses lasting up to six months, such as language courses or business training. Longer-term study requires a Student visa.
Those found to be working illegally or staying beyond their permitted time could face removal from the UK and restrictions on future travel.
Need assistance?
DavidsonMorris are UK immigration specialists. For guidance on how the new visitor rules apply to you and your circumstances, contact our experts.
Electronic visa waiver FAQs
Who needs a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)?
The ETA is required for travellers from certain visa-exempt countries who wish to visit the UK for short stays of up to six months.
How long does the ETA application take to process?
Most applications are processed within 72 hours, though some may be approved within minutes. Applicants should apply in advance to account for any potential delays. The process is fully online and requires passport details, personal information, and a small fee.
Can I work in the UK with an ETA?
No, the ETA does not allow holders to work in the UK. Business visits, such as attending meetings and conferences, are permitted, but employment requires a work visa. Any individual found working without the appropriate visa could face removal and future travel restrictions.
Can I study in the UK with an ETA?
Yes, but only for short-term study courses lasting up to six months. If the course duration exceeds six months, the traveller must apply for a Student visa instead.
Glossary
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) | A digital authorisation required for certain travellers visiting the UK, replacing the Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW) scheme. |
| Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW) | The previous system allowing nationals of certain Gulf countries to visit the UK without a visa. It has now been replaced by the ETA. |
| UK Border Force | The government agency responsible for enforcing immigration rules and checking travellers at the UK border. |
| Visa-Free Travel | A system where certain nationalities do not require a visa but may need an ETA or similar authorisation before travel. |
| Multiple Entry | Permission to enter the UK multiple times during the validity of an ETA, unlike the single-use EVW system. |
| Validity Period | The length of time an ETA is valid. The UK ETA is typically valid for two years or until the passport expires. |
| Entry Requirements | Conditions travellers must meet to enter the UK, including proving the purpose of visit and financial stability. |
| Application Fee | The cost of applying for an ETA. Currently set at £10 per application. |
| Right to Work | The legal permission to work in the UK. The ETA does not grant the right to work, and visitors must obtain a work visa for employment. |
| Overstay | Remaining in the UK beyond the permitted period under an ETA, which can result in future travel bans or immigration restrictions. |
| Visitor Visa | A visa required for certain nationalities or travellers who do not qualify for an ETA and wish to visit the UK. |
| Immigration Violation | A breach of UK immigration laws, such as overstaying, working without permission, or providing false information on an application. |
| Administrative Review | A process where applicants can request a review of a refusal decision if they believe an error was made. |
| Travel Ban | A restriction imposed on individuals who have breached immigration rules, preventing them from entering the UK. |
| Short-Term Study | Courses lasting up to six months that ETA holders may attend in the UK without needing a Student visa. |
| Business Activities | Permitted activities for ETA holders, such as attending meetings, conferences, or training, but without engaging in employment. |
Author
Founder and Managing Director Anne Morris is a fully qualified solicitor and trusted adviser to large corporates through to SMEs, providing strategic immigration and global mobility advice to support employers with UK operations to meet their workforce needs through corporate immigration.
She is a recognised by Legal 500 and Chambers as a legal expert and delivers Board-level advice on business migration and compliance risk management as well as overseeing the firm’s development of new client propositions and delivery of cost and time efficient processing of applications.
Anne is an active public speaker, immigration commentator, and immigration policy contributor and regularly hosts training sessions for employers and HR professionals
