How long does UK ETA last

Planning a trip to the United Kingdom and wondering how long does UK ETA last? The UK’s new Electronic Travel Authorisation system is designed to make travel smoother for visitors from visa-free countries. Similar to other digital entry schemes used in the US and Europe, it lets travellers get approval before they fly — quick, easy, and all online.

How long does UK ETA last

A UK ETA is valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. During this time, you can enter the UK multiple times without needing to reapply.

Each visit allows you to stay in the UK for up to six months for tourism, business, or visiting family and friends. If your passport expires before the two-year mark, your ETA automatically becomes invalid, and you’ll need to apply for a new one with your new passport.

In short, two years of multiple entries, with a six-month stay limit per visit.

How does UK ETA work?

The UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a digital system that lets eligible travellers enter the United Kingdom without a visa for short stays. You apply online by submitting your personal and passport details, and most applications are approved within minutes. Once granted, the ETA is electronically linked to your passport, so there’s no need for paperwork or stamps. When you travel, it’s automatically checked by airlines and UK border officers.

With a valid ETA, you can visit the UK multiple times for up to six months per trip for tourism, business, or visiting family and friends.

Comparing ETA, ESTA, and ETIAS

Other regions have similar systems — for example, the United States’ ESTA and the Schengen Area’s upcoming ETIAS. These also provide pre-travel authorisation for visa-free visitors, usually valid for a few years and limited to short stays.

The UK ETA follows the same model but allows longer stays per trip.

Here is a quick link to start your process