Hello Ambassadors!
As we count the days until we cross the pond for this summer’s European adventures, there is a critical item that needs to be on your radar: Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for traveling to the United Kingdom.
Effective just last year, all travelers bound for the United Kingdom in any capacity will need an ETA. You won’t be allowed on a plane bound for the UK without one. For travel to the UK, ETA is just as important as your passport.
So, let’s talk details:
Who needs a UK ETA?
ETA is a digital entry clearance to the UK for tourism, visiting family or certain other reasons. It lasts for 2 years or until your passport expires, whichever is sooner. You can travel to the UK as often as you want in that time. An ETA is not a visa or a tax.
United Kingdom ETAs MUST be received before departure from the United States. ETAs cannot be obtained upon arrival in the United Kingdom.
Everyone travelling to the UK is required to get an ETA, except for people who already have a UK visa, an exempt vignette, or a British or Irish passport. Whether you can apply depends on the date of travel and nationality shown on passport.
- United States Passport Holders & European Nationals: Must obtain a UK ETA before departure.
- Non-US Passport Holders: Nationalities that ordinarily require a visa to visit the UK will continue to do so and should not obtain an ETA.
Check this UK government webpage to see if you are eligible for an ETA, or if you need a visa.
What is the cost and processing time?
This is the information we have as of the date of this post. Please note that processing time and pricing are subject to change.
Decisions are typically received within three business days, though this timing may increase as we approach the summer travel season. Because your UK ETA lasts for two years, we strongly recommend applying as soon as possible.
The cost is £16 (approximately $20-22 USD, depending on exchange rates).
What do I need to know to apply?
Here are some good things to know before you apply:
- You can apply through the UK ETA App (recommended) or via the UK ETA website – instructions for each are below.
- Group applications are not available; each person must apply separately.
- You can use the app to apply for an ETA for someone else, but they must be present when submitting because a face scan/picture is mandatory.
- You can only apply and pay for one application at a time.
- Minors (under 18 years) will need to provide contact information for a parent or guardian.
- Once approved, the ETA will be digitally linked to your passport and cannot be transferred.
- Your ETA remains valid for two years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.
Apply through the UK ETA app
Required for the Application:
- The physical passport you will travel with to the UK – not a photocopy or digital passport
- Access to the email used for the application (for 2-factor authentication)
- A credit card, debit card, Apple Pay or Google Pay
Download the App
- Open the camera on your phone to scan this QR Code
- Or search “UK ETA” in your phone’s app store
Completing the Application:
- Provide your phone, email, address and general info
- Answer questions about your job or status as a student, criminal history and other nationalities
- Submit payment through the app
Confirm the accuracy of all details!
All details must match the passport to prevent delays or denial.
A confirmation email for each submission will be sent to the email entered on the application.
Apply online
Required for the Application:
- Take or upload a photo of the passport you will use to travel to the UK.
- A credit card, debit card, Apple Pay or Google Pay
Completing the Application:
- Provide your phone, email, address and general info
- Take or upload a photo of yourself. Children aged 9 and under will not be asked to scan their face.
- Answer questions about your job or status as a student, criminal history and other nationalities
- Submit payment online
What about ETIAS?
We’ve also received questions about the upcoming European Travel Information and Authorization System, or ETIAS, which will be a mandatory entry requirement for visa-exempt travelers to most European nations.
However, this is not in place yet and will not be in place before our 2026 Ambassadors of Music trips – so no need for you to worry about ETIAS!
Once you’ve received your UK ETA approval, you’re one step closer to a summer full of Ambassadors adventures – we can’t wait!