After I posted about the UK ETA on Instagram and TikTok, I got a flood of questions. If you’re a US passport holder planning a trip to the United Kingdom, here’s what you need to know. Starting in April 2025, travelers from visa-exempt countries like the United States will need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before entering the UK. It’s not a visa, but it is something you need to complete before your flight.
Let’s break it down in a way that’s easy to understand and apply.
What Is the UK ETA?
The UK ETA is a digital pre-travel approval. You’ll need it to enter the UK for tourism, business, short-term study, or visiting friends and family.
Here are the key facts:
- It costs £16 per person or about $22 USD (at the time of my application June 2025)
- It’s valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first
- It allows multiple visits, with stays of up to six months per trip
- Every traveler must apply individually, including children and infants
How to Apply
You can apply in two ways, and both are straightforward.
1. Use the UK ETA app
The app is available on iOS and Android. You’ll scan your passport, take a live selfie, upload a headshot photo, answer a few questions, and pay the fee.
My application was processed and approved in less than 24 hours, but it’s best to allow up to three working days, just in case.
2. Apply on GOV.UK
If you prefer using a desktop or want to avoid the app, the website works just as well. The process is nearly identical.
Who Doesn’t Need One?
There are a few exceptions. You do not need an ETA if:
- You already have a UK visa
- You are a British or Irish citizen
- You have settled or pre-settled status in the UK
- You are only transiting through a UK airport without passing through border control
- You are a dual citizen traveling on your UK or Irish passport
Why This Matters
The UK is moving toward a fully digital border system. The ETA helps screen travelers in advance using biometric checks and security databases. It’s all about streamlining the entry process and improving safety, and other countries like the US and Canada already use similar systems.
My Personal Experience
I applied using the app while in between work calls one day. The process was simple and fast. A lot of it is digitized, which was pretty cool. The app can literally just scan the chip in your passport and grab the information it needs for the application. I received my approval in less than 24 hours. The best part, the ETA is linked to your passport so there aren’t any additional documents or anything that you need to travel around with.
Final Thoughts
If you’re planning a trip to London, Edinburgh, Belfast, or anywhere else in the UK, this is an important step you need to take care of. It only takes a few minutes, costs less than dinner out, and helps ensure a smooth arrival. Take a moment, apply early, and get ready to enjoy your next adventure across the pond.
Plated passport 
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