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What Nationalities Need a UK ETA?

Since February 2026, the UK ETA has been fully enforced — and if you're travelling to the UK from a visa exempt jurisdiction, then you need one. Here's a clear breakdown of who needs a UK ETA and who doesn't.

The Simple Rule

If you're from a country that doesn't need a visa to visit the UK — you now need a UK ETA instead. It doesn't replace a visa. It replaces the old system where eligible nationalities could simply turn up at the UK border without any pre-travel permission.

Who Needs a UK ETA?

Nationals of 85 countries need a UK ETA to travel to the UK. This includes citizens of:

  • United States

  • Canada

  • Australia

  • New Zealand

  • Japan

  • South Korea

  • All 27 EU member states

  • Gulf states including UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait and Oman

  • And many more visa-exempt countries. Full list is on the UK application form.

Who Does NOT Need a UK ETA?

  • British citizens (including dual nationals travelling on a British passport)

  • Irish citizens

  • People who already hold a valid UK visa or immigration status

  • Those transiting airside through Heathrow or Manchester without going through passport control

What About Dual Nationals?

If you hold dual nationality and one of your passports is British or Irish, you do not need an ETA — but you must travel on your British or Irish passport. If you travel on your other passport, you will need an ETA linked to that passport.

What If My Country Isn't on the ETA List?

If your nationality requires a standard UK visa, the ETA does not apply to you. You'll need to apply for a Standard Visitor Visa through the official UK government channels instead.

Not Sure if You Need One?

If you're unsure whether your nationality requires a UK ETA, the safest thing to do is check on our UK application form at the top of the page before you travel. At ETA Permits we cover all ETA-eligible nationalities and can have your application processed quickly and accurately.

Check your eligibility and apply here — only £65pp fully inclusive.

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