Do Hong Kong HKSAR Passport Holders Need a UK ETA? (2026 Guide)

Yes. If you hold a Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) passport, you now need an Electronic Travel Authorisation before travelling to the United Kingdom. Without one, you won't be permitted to board your flight.

What Is the UK ETA?

The UK ETA is a digital travel permission linked directly to your passport. It isn't a visa — there's no embassy appointment, no paperwork to post, and no stamp. It's a pre-travel clearance that must be approved before you leave Hong Kong.

What Does It Cost?

The official UK government fee is £20 per person. Every traveller needs their own ETA, including children and infants.

At ETA Permits we charge £65 per application. That includes a thorough review of your application before it's submitted, passport detail error-checking, photo compliance verification, and dedicated support through to approval. A single mistake on a self-submitted application can lead to a refusal with no refund — our service eliminates that risk.

What's Included

Once approved, your ETA is valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. You can visit the UK as many times as you like during that period, with each stay lasting up to six months. It covers holidays, business travel, family visits, short-term study, and transit through UK airports.

How to Apply

You'll need your HKSAR passport, an email address, a recent photo, and a payment method. Most applications are approved within hours. Apply at least three working days before your departure date.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I be denied boarding without an ETA? Yes. Airlines verify ETA status before issuing boarding passes. No ETA means no flight.

How long can I stay in the UK per visit? Up to six months.

Do children need their own ETA? Yes. Every traveller needs an individual application regardless of age.

Can I apply at the airport? No. Your ETA must be approved before you travel.

What about BN(O) passport holders? British National (Overseas) passport holders have a separate immigration route. If you hold a BN(O) passport, check your specific requirements on GOV.UK before applying.