What's the Difference Between a UK ETA and a UK Visa?

Since the UK ETA launched, one of the most common questions we get is: "Do I need an ETA or a visa?" The answer depends on your nationality and what you're planning to do in the UK. Here's a clear breakdown.

What is a UK ETA?

A UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) is a digital pre-travel permission for visitors from visa-exempt countries. It's not a visa — it's a lightweight authorisation that allows you to travel to the UK for short stays of up to 6 months. Think of it as the UK's version of the US ESTA or Canada's eTA.

It's fast, simple and fully digital — most applications are approved within minutes.

What is a UK Visa?

A UK visa is a more comprehensive immigration permission required for people who either come from a country that requires a visa for any UK visit, or who want to do something that an ETA doesn't cover — such as work, study long-term or settle in the UK.

Visas require more documentation, a biometrics appointment and significantly longer processing times.

Key Differences at a Glance

	UK ETA	UK Visa
Who needs it	Visa-exempt nationals (85 countries)	Visa nationals or those wanting to work/study/settle
Cost	£65pp (ETA Permits)	£115+ (Standard Visitor Visa)
Processing time	Minutes to 3 days	Weeks
Validity	2 years	Varies
Work rights	No	Depends on visa type
Study	Short courses up to 30 days	Full-time with Student visa
Biometrics required	No	Yes
Documents needed	Passport only	Supporting documents required

Which One Do I Need?

• If you're from one of the 85 visa-exempt countries and visiting the UK for tourism, business or a family visit — you need an ETA

• If your nationality requires a visa for any UK visit — you need a Standard Visitor Visa

• If you want to work, study long-term or live in the UK — you need the appropriate UK visa, regardless of your nationality

Can I Switch from an ETA to a Visa While in the UK?

Generally no. In most cases you cannot switch from visitor status to a work or study visa from inside the UK. You would need to leave and apply for the appropriate visa from your home country before returning.

The Bottom Line

For most visitors from visa-exempt countries, an ETA is all you need — it's faster, cheaper and simpler than a visa. If you're unsure which applies to you, check your nationality against our eligibility checker on the UK ETA page.

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