On 10 September 2024, the UK government introduced the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme through the Immigration Rules. This new system is designed to enhance pre-arrival screening for non-visa nationals who wish to enter the UK as Visitors (excluding Marriage/Civil Partnership Visitors) for up to six months or as Temporary Work – Creative Workers under the relevant visa concession.
The ETA scheme applies to all nationals who do not currently require a visa to travel to the UK and who do not hold any other UK immigration status. This initiative strengthens immigration controls by ensuring that all eligible travellers are assessed before arriving in the UK.
What is the UK ETA Scheme?
The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme aims to close existing gaps in pre-travel permissions for Visitors and Temporary Creative Workers. It requires individuals who do not need a visa to obtain an ETA before travelling, allowing UK authorities to conduct advance security screenings and assess potential risks before arrival.
To obtain an ETA, applicants must submit a valid application and meet specific suitability criteria. If an applicant fails to satisfy these requirements, their ETA request may be refused.
However, an ETA refusal does not equate to a refusal of entry into the UK. Individuals who are denied an ETA may still apply for a UK visa to enter the country. Since visa applications following an ETA refusal can be complex, seeking professional immigration advice is highly recommended.
Who Needs an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to Travel to the UK?
The ETA requirement applies to nationals from specific visa-free countries according to a phased rollout:
- From 15 November 2023: Qatar
- From 22 February 2024: Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, UAE
- From 8 January 2025: Countries including Australia, Canada, Japan, the United States, and Hong Kong (BN(O))
- From 2 April 2025: European countries such as France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the Netherlands
If your country is not listed, you must apply for a UK visa before travelling.
How to Apply for a UK ETA?
Individuals can apply for an ETA using the ETA App or an online application form. The process requires:
- A £10 application fee
- Passport details
- A passport-style photo
- Security and suitability questionnaire responses
As per the Immigration Rules, applicants must use a national passport. Travellers using other identity documents must apply for a UK visa instead.
Expanded Suitability Criteria for ETA Applications
An ETA application may be refused under the following grounds:
- Exclusion or Deportation Orders – If the applicant is subject to an exclusion or deportation order.
- Criminality Grounds – If convicted of a criminal offence with a custodial sentence of 12 months or more or a conviction within the past 12 months.
- Non-Conducive Grounds – If deemed not conducive to the public good due to conduct, character, or associations.
- Previous Immigration Breaches – If the applicant has overstayed, breached visa conditions, or used deception in a previous application.
- False Representations – If the applicant has submitted false information or documents in any immigration application.
- NHS Debt – If the applicant has unpaid NHS charges of £500 or more.
- Unpaid Litigation Costs – If the applicant owes litigation costs to the Home Office.
What Happens If My ETA Is Refused?
A refusal of an ETA does not mean you have been refused permission to enter the UK. Instead, you will need to apply for a Standard Visitor Visa or a Creative Worker Visa, depending on your travel purpose.
Since UK visa applications following an ETA refusal can be complex, seeking professional immigration advice can improve your chances of success.
As with any automated assessment process, there is a risk of incorrect refusals due to factual errors, misinterpretation of legal criteria, or administrative mistakes. Individuals with complex immigration histories should consider seeking specialist legal advice to avoid unnecessary refusals and delays.
Conclusion
The ETA scheme is a significant development in UK immigration policy, impacting visa-free travellers from various regions. While it enhances security and border control, it also introduces new restrictions that travellers must carefully navigate. If your ETA application is refused or you are unsure about your eligibility, consulting a professional immigration lawyer can help you explore alternative visa options and ensure a smooth travel experience.