Do I Need an ETA if I'm Just Transiting Through the UK?

It's one of the most searched questions about the UK ETA — and the answer depends on exactly how you're transiting. Here's everything you need to know.

The Simple Rule

Whether you need a UK ETA for transit depends on one thing — do you pass through UK border control or not?

If You Pass Through UK Border Control (Landside Transit)

Yes — you need a UK ETA. This applies if you:

• Have to collect and recheck your luggage

• Are travelling on two separate tickets

• Need to change terminals at an airport that requires going through passport control

• Are transiting through any UK airport

Even if you're only in the UK for a couple of hours, if you pass through passport control you need an ETA.

If You Stay Airside (Heathrow or Manchester Only)

Currently — no. Passengers transiting through Heathrow or Manchester who remain in the international transit area and do not pass through UK border control do not currently need an ETA. This exemption was introduced following pressure from the aviation industry.

However — this exemption is temporary and subject to review. It could change. And it only applies to Heathrow and Manchester — the only two UK airports with airside transit facilities. If you're connecting through any other UK airport such as Gatwick, Stansted or Edinburgh, you will pass through passport control and will need an ETA.

How Do I Know If I'll Go Through Passport Control?

The easiest way to check is to contact your airline. As a general rule:

• If you're travelling on a single ticket with your bags checked through to your final destination, you'll likely stay airside at Heathrow or Manchester

• If you're on separate tickets, you'll almost certainly need to collect your bags and go through passport control — meaning you need an ETA

Our Advice

Given that the airside exemption is temporary and could be withdrawn at any time, and given that an ETA is valid for 2 years and covers unlimited trips — our advice is simple: apply for one anyway. It costs relatively little and gives you complete peace of mind whatever happens.

Apply for your UK ETA here — only £65pp fully inclusive.