UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation)

The UK’s Electronic Travel Authorisation has been required for US citizens traveling to the UK since January 8, 2025, covering tourism, business visits, and other short stays of up to six months. You apply through the official UK ETA app or GOV.UK, and decisions usually arrive within three working days, often much faster.

An ETA is linked to the passport you apply with and is typically valid for two years or until that passport expires, whichever comes first, covering multiple trips. Renewing your passport means applying for a new ETA. Each traveler needs their own, including children.

Apply only through official channels, since unofficial sites charge extra, and confirm current rules on GOV.UK before you travel. The ETA is separate from Europe’s upcoming ETIAS, so a trip combining London and Paris may eventually need both. Our UK ETA guide walks through the application.