Who Needs a UK ETA? Full Nationality & Eligibility List

If you're planning a trip to the United Kingdom, you've probably heard about the new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system. But who exactly needs one? The answer depends on your nationality, your travel history, and what you plan to do in the UK.

This guide covers everything you need to know — including a full nationality list, exceptions, and how to check your eligibility.

The UK ETA is an electronic permission to travel, similar to the US ESTA or the upcoming EU ETIAS. It's not a visa — it's a pre-travel check for travellers who normally don't need a visa for short visits. You'll need to apply online before you travel, and it costs £20 (as of 2025).

Check the official UK government ETA guidance for the latest fees and rules.

This article is general guidance only. Always verify your specific requirements with official sources before booking travel.

What is the UK ETA?

The UK ETA is a digital travel authorisation for visitors who do not need a visa for short stays. It allows you to travel to the UK for tourism, visiting family, business, short-term study (up to 6 months), and transit. You apply online, pay a fee, and receive a decision — usually within minutes or a few days.

The ETA is linked to your biometric passport. When you check in for your flight, the airline will check that you have a valid ETA. Border Force officers will also check it when you arrive in the UK.

It's valid for two years (or until your passport expires, whichever comes first) and allows multiple visits of up to 6 months each.

Not sure if you even need one? Here's how to check.

Who needs a UK ETA? The full nationality list

The UK government has published a list of nationalities eligible for the ETA. These are countries whose citizens are currently non-visa nationals — meaning they can visit the UK without a visa for short stays. From 2025, these travellers will need an ETA instead of just showing up at the border.

Here's the full list of nationalities that need a UK ETA (as of 2025):

• Antigua and Barbuda
• Argentina
• Australia
• The Bahamas
• Barbados
• Belize
• Botswana
• Brazil
• Brunei
• Canada
• Chile
• Costa Rica
• Grenada
• Guatemala
• Guyana
• Hong Kong (SAR passport holders)
• Israel
• Japan
• Kiribati
• Macau (SAR passport holders)
• Malaysia
• Maldives
• Marshall Islands
• Mauritius
• Mexico
• Micronesia
• Monaco (non-EU nationals)
• Nauru
• New Zealand
• Nicaragua
• Palau
• Panama
• Papua New Guinea
• Paraguay
• Saint Kitts and Nevis
• Saint Lucia
• Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
• Samoa
• Saudi Arabia
• Seychelles
• Sierra Leone
• Singapore
• Solomon Islands
• South Korea
• Taiwan (passports with personal ID number)
• Tonga
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Tuvalu
• United Arab Emirates
• United States of America
• Uruguay
• Vanuatu

If your country is on this list, you need a UK ETA for any short visit to the UK (unless you have a visa or other permission).

Understanding the list: What it means for your travel plans

This list covers major travel markets like the United States, Canada, Australia, and Japan. It also includes many Caribbean and Pacific island nations, as well as key Middle Eastern partners like Saudi Arabia and the UAE. For example, a family from Brazil planning a two-week holiday in London must each obtain an ETA before departure.

The list is subject to change as the UK government reviews its visa waiver agreements. Always check the official UK government ETA guidance for the latest updates before you travel.

Who does NOT need a UK ETA?

Some travellers are exempt from the ETA requirement. You do not need an ETA if you fall into any of these categories:

• Irish citizens: Irish passport holders can enter the UK freely under the Common Travel Area (CTA). No ETA needed.
• Holders of a valid UK visa: If you have a valid UK visa (including a visitor visa, work visa, or student visa), you do not need an ETA. The visa serves as your permission to travel.
• Holders of a UK eVisa: If you have a digital immigration status (eVisa) showing you have permission to live, work, or study in the UK, you don't need an ETA.
• Those with right of abode: If you have the right of abode in the UK (e.g., certain Commonwealth citizens with a UK-born parent), you can enter without an ETA.
• Holders of a British Overseas Territories passport: Citizens of British Overseas Territories (e.g., Bermuda, Gibraltar) do not need an ETA.
• Holders of a British National (Overseas) passport: BN(O) passport holders do not need an ETA.
• Holders of a British Overseas citizen passport: These are also exempt.
• Holders of a British protected person passport: Exempt.
• Holders of a UK travel document (e.g., refugee travel document): Exempt.
• Visa nationals: If your nationality requires a visa for any visit to the UK (e.g., India, China, Nigeria, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Philippines, etc.), you must apply for a visa — you cannot use an ETA.

If you're unsure whether you need a visa or an ETA, check the UK government's check if you need a UK visa tool.

Detailed examples of exemptions in practice

Consider a Canadian citizen who holds a valid UK Skilled Worker visa. They do not need an ETA because their visa already grants them permission to enter. Similarly, a US citizen who has been granted indefinite leave to remain in the UK can enter using their eVisa without an ETA.

On the other hand, a Nigerian citizen visiting the UK for a short business meeting cannot use an ETA. They must apply for a Standard Visitor visa instead, which requires a more detailed application process and a higher fee.

What about dual nationals?

If you hold two passports, you need to check which one you'll use for travel. The rule is simple: you must use the passport that matches your eligibility. If one of your nationalities is from a visa-national country (e.g., India), you cannot use your other passport to bypass the visa requirement — you must apply for a visa using that nationality.

However, if both passports are from non-visa national countries (e.g., US and Canada), you can use either to apply for an ETA.

Important: If you hold a passport from a country that is not on the ETA list, you cannot get an ETA. You must apply for a visa instead. For example, a dual US-Indian citizen cannot use their US passport to apply for an ETA if they are also an Indian citizen — the UK considers all nationalities, and if any of them is a visa national, you must apply for a visa.

Practical scenarios for dual nationals

Imagine a traveller with both Australian and Chinese passports. The Australian passport is on the ETA list, but the Chinese passport requires a visa. The UK will assess the Chinese nationality, so this traveller must apply for a visa, not an ETA.

Always declare all nationalities on your application to avoid complications.

In contrast, a person with both Canadian and British passports can simply use their British passport to enter the UK without an ETA. This simplifies the process and avoids any confusion at the border.

What if I have a British passport but also another nationality?

If you hold a British passport (including British citizen, British Overseas Territories citizen, British Overseas citizen, British National (Overseas), or British protected person), you do not need an ETA. You are a UK national and have the right to enter. However, if you are a British citizen but also hold another passport, you should use your British passport to travel to the UK.

Why using your British passport matters

Using your British passport ensures you are treated as a UK national at the border. This means you bypass ETA requirements entirely and enjoy the right of abode. For example, a dual British-South African citizen should always present their British passport when entering the UK.

If you accidentally use your other passport, you might be asked for an ETA or visa. This can cause delays at check-in or border control. Always carry your British passport for UK travel.

Do I need an ETA for transit?

Yes, if you are a non-visa national and you are transiting through the UK (even if you don't pass through border control), you will need an ETA from 2025. This includes airside transit (staying in the international transit area) and landside transit (passing through border control to catch a connecting flight). There is no transit exemption for ETA-eligible travellers.

However, if you are a visa national, you may still need a visa for transit — check the UK government's transit visa rules.

Transit examples to clarify the rules

A Japanese traveller flying from Tokyo to New York with a layover at Heathrow must have an ETA, even if they remain airside. Without it, the airline may deny boarding. Similarly, a US citizen connecting from a domestic flight to an international one at Manchester Airport needs an ETA for landside transit.

Visa nationals, such as a passenger from India transiting through London to Canada, must apply for a Direct Airside Transit Visa (DATV) instead. The ETA does not apply to them.

Do I need an ETA for the Republic of Ireland?

No. The UK ETA is for travel to the United Kingdom (England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland). The Republic of Ireland is a separate country and has its own immigration rules. However, if you are travelling from Ireland to the UK (e.g., via the Common Travel Area), you may still need an ETA if you are not an Irish citizen.

The ETA is required for entry into the UK, not for travel within the CTA.

Navigating the Common Travel Area

If you are a US citizen living in Dublin and you take a flight to London, you need an ETA before you board. The CTA does not exempt non-Irish citizens from UK entry requirements. For example, a Canadian tourist visiting both Ireland and the UK must obtain an ETA for the UK portion of their trip.

Irish citizens, however, can travel freely between the two countries without any documentation. This is a unique privilege under the CTA agreement.

How to apply for a UK ETA

The application process is straightforward. You'll need:

• A valid biometric passport from an eligible country
• A digital photo (or you can use your passport photo)
• An email address
• A credit or debit card to pay the £20 fee

You apply online via the UK government website or the official UK ETA app. The form asks for personal details, passport information, and a few security questions. Most applications are approved within minutes, but it's wise to apply at least 72 hours before travel.

For full details, see our guide on uk eta application requirements.

Step-by-step application walkthrough

First, visit the official UK government ETA portal. Enter your personal details exactly as they appear on your passport. Then, upload a recent digital photo or use the one from your passport.

Answer the security questions truthfully, including any past immigration violations.

Pay the £20 fee using a debit or credit card. You will receive a confirmation email with your ETA reference number. Save this for your records.

If your application is refused, the email will explain why, and you may reapply after correcting errors.

How much does a UK ETA cost?

The UK ETA costs £20 per application. This fee is non-refundable, even if your application is refused. You can pay by credit or debit card.

There are no additional service charges if you apply directly through the official government channel. For more on fees, see how much does a uk eta cost.

Understanding the fee structure

The £20 fee covers the cost of processing your application. It is significantly cheaper than a UK visitor visa, which costs over £100. However, the fee is non-refundable, so ensure your application is accurate before submitting.

For example, a family of four would pay £80 total for their ETAs.

Beware of third-party websites that charge extra fees. Always use the official government portal to avoid scams. The ETA is one of the most affordable travel authorisations globally.

Special cases: Commonwealth citizens and the UK ETA

Commonwealth citizens are not automatically exempt from the ETA. Many Commonwealth countries (e.g., Australia, Canada, Singapore) are on the ETA list, so their citizens need an ETA. Others (e.g., India, Pakistan, Bangladesh) are visa nationals and need a visa.

A few Commonwealth citizens have right of abode or other exemptions — check your specific status.

If you are a Commonwealth citizen with a UK-born grandparent, you may be eligible for a UK Ancestry visa, which allows you to work in the UK for up to 5 years. That visa would exempt you from the ETA requirement for the duration of the visa.

Commonwealth-specific scenarios

A Jamaican citizen visiting the UK for a family reunion must check if Jamaica is on the ETA list. As of 2025, Jamaica is not listed, so a visa is required. In contrast, a citizen of Trinidad and Tobago, which is on the list, needs an ETA for a similar trip.

Commonwealth citizens with right of abode, such as those born to a British parent, can enter without an ETA. They should carry proof of their status, like a certificate of entitlement, to avoid delays at the border.

UK ETA for the Commonwealth Games 2026

If you're planning to attend the Commonwealth Games in 2026 (to be held in the UK), you will need a valid UK ETA if you are from an eligible country. The ETA allows you to visit for tourism, which includes attending sporting events. Apply well in advance to avoid last-minute issues.

For more, see uk eta commonwealth games 2026.

Planning your trip to the Games

Fans from Australia, Canada, and other eligible countries must secure their ETA before booking flights. For example, a group of New Zealanders planning to attend the athletics events should apply for ETAs at least a month in advance. This ensures they have time to resolve any application issues.

If you are from a visa-national country like India, you cannot use an ETA. You must apply for a Standard Visitor visa, which takes longer and costs more. Start the visa process early to avoid missing the Games.

What happens if I arrive without an ETA?

If you need an ETA and arrive in the UK without one, you will be denied boarding by the airline. Border Force may also refuse you entry. There are no exceptions for emergency travel — you must have an approved ETA before you travel.

If your application is refused, you cannot travel to the UK unless you obtain a visa.

Real-world consequences of non-compliance

A US citizen who forgets to apply for an ETA before a business trip to London will be turned away at the airport check-in counter. They may lose the cost of their ticket and miss important meetings. Similarly, a Japanese tourist arriving at Heathrow without an ETA could be detained and sent back on the next flight.

To avoid this, always check your ETA status before heading to the airport. Set a reminder to apply at least 72 hours before departure. The process is quick, but last-minute issues can cause significant disruption.

Can I get a refund if my ETA is refused?

No. The £20 application fee is non-refundable, even if your application is refused. You will receive a refusal letter explaining the reason, and you may be able to apply again if the issue is resolved (e.g., incorrect information). However, if you are a visa national, you cannot apply for an ETA — you must apply for a visa instead.

What to do after a refusal

If your ETA is refused, read the refusal letter carefully. Common reasons include entering incorrect passport details or having a criminal record. Correct the error and reapply.

For example, if you mistyped your passport number, submit a new application with the correct information.

If you are a visa national, do not reapply for an ETA. Instead, apply for the appropriate UK visa. This may take several weeks, so plan accordingly.

The ETA system is not designed for visa nationals.

How to check if you need a UK ETA: Step-by-step

1. Check your nationality: Is your country on the ETA list above? If yes, proceed. If not, you likely need a visa.
2. Check your travel document: Do you have a biometric passport? The ETA requires a biometric passport. If your passport is non-biometric (older style), you may need a visa instead.
3. Check your purpose of visit: Are you visiting for tourism, business, study (up to 6 months), or transit? If yes, the ETA is suitable. If you plan to work (except for specific business activities), you may need a work visa.
4. Check your length of stay: Will you stay less than 6 months? The ETA allows visits of up to 6 months. Longer stays require a visa.
5. Check for exemptions: Do you have a valid UK visa, right of abode, or are you an Irish citizen? If so, you don't need an ETA.
6. Apply online: If you meet all criteria, apply for an ETA via the official government website.

Additional considerations for specific travellers

If you are a diplomat or travelling on official government business, check if your status exempts you from the ETA. Diplomatic passport holders from eligible countries may still need an ETA, but some have special arrangements. Contact the UK embassy in your country for clarification.

For those with complex travel histories, such as previous visa overstays, the ETA application may be refused. In such cases, a visa application with full disclosure is recommended. The ETA system is automated and may not consider individual circumstances.

Frequently asked questions about UK ETA eligibility

I have a US green card but a passport from a visa-national country. Can I get an ETA?

No. Your nationality determines your eligibility. If your passport is from a visa-national country (e.g., India, China), you must apply for a UK visa regardless of your US residency status. The ETA is only for non-visa nationals.

I am a permanent resident of Canada but hold an Indian passport. Do I need an ETA?

No. Your Indian passport makes you a visa national. You need a visa to visit the UK. Your Canadian permanent residence does not change that.

Do children need a UK ETA?

Yes. Every traveller, including infants and children, needs their own ETA. You apply for each child separately using their own passport.

The fee is £20 per person.

Can I use my UK ETA to enter the Republic of Ireland?

No. The UK ETA is only for entry into the United Kingdom. Ireland has its own immigration rules. However, if you are travelling from the UK to Ireland within the Common Travel Area, you may not need a separate permission if you are a UK ETA holder, but check Irish requirements.

What if my passport expires before my ETA?

Your ETA is linked to your passport. If you get a new passport, you must apply for a new ETA. The old ETA is no longer valid.

Always ensure your passport is valid for your entire trip.

Can I apply for an ETA if I have a criminal record?

It depends on the nature of your conviction. Minor offences may not affect your application, but serious crimes can lead to refusal. The ETA application asks about criminal history, and you must answer truthfully.

If refused, you may need to apply for a visa instead, which allows for a more detailed assessment of your case.

Do I need an ETA for a cruise that stops in the UK?

Yes, if you disembark in the UK, even for a few hours, you need an ETA. Cruise passengers from eligible countries must have an approved ETA before boarding their ship. For example, a US citizen on a transatlantic cruise with a port call in Southampton needs an ETA to go ashore.

Key takeaways

• You need a UK ETA if you are a non-visa national from an eligible country (see full list above) and you do not have a visa, eVisa, or right of abode.
• Irish citizens, visa holders, and certain other groups are exempt.
• Visa nationals (e.g., India, China, Nigeria) cannot get an ETA — they need a visa.
• The ETA costs £20 and is valid for two years or until your passport expires.
• Apply online before travel. Without an ETA, you will be denied boarding.
• Always check official UK government sources for the most up-to-date information before you travel.