Do I need a visa or ETA to go to the United Kingdom?

Traveling between England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland reveals both the shared culture and distinct local flavors that contribute to the UK. While visiting the UK has typically been straightforward for many international travelers, recent changes, including Brexit and the new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) mean staying informed about entry requirements is essential.

Advertisement

Since January 8, 2025, most international visitors need either an ETA or a visa to enter the UK. Which one you need depends on your nationality and length of stay.

Whether you're visiting for tourism, studying or working, this guide will help you understand the UK's entry requirements before your trip.

What you need to know about the new UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)

Who needs to apply

The ETA is now mandatory for visitors from countries that previously enjoyed visa-free entry, including the United States, Canada, Australia, Japan and many Commonwealth countries (including Singapore, Malaysia and many Caribbean nations). If you're from the EU, you'll need to apply for an ETA after April 2, 2025.

How to apply

The system is straightforward and mirrors similar visa-waiver schemes like the US ESTA and the upcoming European ETIAS. You'll pay £10 (US$12.40) for an ETA that remains valid for two years, allowing multiple entries within that time frame. You can submit your application through the official UK government website or app, providing basic information like a passport photo, another current photo of yourself, and travel and contact information. There'll be a few basic security questions on the form too. Processing typically takes up to three days. 

What it covers

Your ETA covers various short-term activities (under six months) including tourism and business meetings. You won't need one, however, if you're just connecting through a UK airport and not passing through border control. 

Advertisement

Everyone in your group, including children, needs their own ETA. Remember, you'll need to apply for a new one if you get a new passport within the two-year validity period. No paper documentation is needed as your ETA is electronically linked to your passport.

What to know about the Standard Visitor visa and who needs one

If you're traveling from countries including China, India, South Africa, Kenya, Nigeria and several others, you'll need a visitor visa rather than an ETA. The Standard Visitor visa costs £115 (US$143), lasts six months, and you must apply online before travel. Expect a decision within three weeks.

If you're a frequent traveler requiring a visa, you can opt for longer-term Standard Visitor Visas: two years (£432/ US$536), five years (£771/US$956) or 10 years (£963/US$1194).

Longer stays and specific purposes

For stays beyond six months, whether you enter with an ETA or visa, you'll need the appropriate visa for your purpose:

• Work or Business visa: Required for employment, business activities or academic research.

• Study visa: Necessary for courses longer than six months.

• Youth Mobility Scheme: Available to travelers aged 18–30 from eligible countries including Australia, Canada, Japan and others (but not the US). This scheme lets you live and work in the UK for up to two years. If you're from Hong Kong (with a SAR passport), Japan, South Korea or Taiwan, you'll need to be selected in the Youth Mobility Scheme ballot before applying.

Special categories

EU citizens

 Unlike most of mainland Europe, which shares a borderless travel zone called Schengen, the UK maintains its own separate border controls. Following Brexit, you'll need a valid passport to enter the UK if you're from the EU or Schengen zone countries. If you're a family member of someone with settled or pre-settled status, you can apply for the EU Settlement Scheme family permit, allowing six-month stays with work and study rights.

Commonwealth citizens

Your UK family ties could give you special visa options if you're from a Commonwealth country:

• Right of abode: If you have a UK-born parent, you may be eligible for a right of abode, letting you live and work in the UK without immigration restrictions. This is also available through marriage for female Commonwealth citizens.

• UK Ancestry visa: A UK-born grandparent could qualify you for this visa, allowing full-time work in the UK for up to five years. It costs £637 (US$790), and typically takes three weeks to process.

Ireland and the Common Travel Area

While Ireland has separate entry requirements from the UK, British and Irish citizens enjoy free movement, without immigration checks, between the countries. That policy is known as the Common Travel Area but it can make the ETA rules a little confusing. For example, if you're visiting Ireland and plan to travel to Northern Ireland, you'll need an ETA (unless you're a British or Irish passport holder), even though there's no physical border check (how this is currently being implemented has not been clarified by the UK government). The same applies if you're entering Great Britain from Northern Ireland.

Important travel considerations

Even without a visa requirement, have key documents ready for immigration authorities: proof of onward travel (like a return flight), evidence of sufficient funds and accommodation details. Being prepared helps ensure a smooth arrival in the UK. If your ETA application is refused, you'll need to apply for a full visa instead.