Visitor visas: Electronic Travel Authorisation

In this section:

1. Overview and visa tool
2. Standard visitor visa (up to six months)
3. Permitted paid engagement
4. Visit to study
5. Science and academia
6. Supporting international visitors
7. Electronic Travel Authorisation
8. Visitor visa checks

International visitors may need permission to travel to the UK using the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme which is being introduced in phases during 2024. The ETA does not replace a visa.

Visitors can travel to the UK as many times as they wish using the same ETA which will be valid for two years, but a new ETA will be required if they obtain a new passport.

An Electronic Travel Authorisation does not guarantee entry to the UK and a visitor may need to see a Border Force officer to request permission under the relevant visa route in order to enter the UK (gov.uk).

Points to note

• An ETA is not required for people with a visa or permission to live, work or study in the UK.
• It costs £16 to apply.
• A decision is usually received within three working days.
• The fastest way to apply is using the UK ETA app – see how to apply for an electronic travel authorisation (ETA) (gov.uk).

If somebody cannot use the app, they can apply for an ETA online (gov.uk).

Useful information and links

• Apply for an electronic travel authorisation (ETA) (gov.uk)
• Ask about ETA (gov.uk)
• What an ETA is (gov.uk)
• How to apply for a UK ETA (gov.uk)
• Using the UK ETA app (gov.uk)

Should you have any questions or queries you can contact the team at hr-compliance@york.ac.uk.