What to know before you begin

Planning a trip to the United Kingdom is exciting, whether you are coming for a holiday, to see family, attend meetings, or explore new opportunities. Before you travel, it is important to understand which type of entry permission you need and how to apply correctly. UK entry rules now include the Electronic Travel Authorisation for many nationalities, alongside the traditional Standard Visitor visa. Choosing the right option from the start helps avoid delays and stress later.

This guide walks you through the UK visitor entry process.

Understanding Your UK Visitor Entry Options

For short stays, the UK offers two main entry routes:

UK Electronic Travel Authorisation(ETA)

The ETA is for travellers from eligible countries who are visiting the UK for tourism, short business meetings, or visiting family. It is completed fully online and is linked electronically to your passport. It is not a visa, but it is mandatory for many travellers who previously entered the UK without applying for the ETA.

Standard Visitor Visa

This visa is required if your nationality is not under the ETA scheme. It allows you to visit the UK for tourism, visiting family or friends, business meetings, events, and certain short courses.

Your eligibility depends on your passport and the reason for your travel. It is essential to confirm the correct route before applying.

Who Can Apply

While each route has its own rules, most applicants will need to show:

• A valid passport

• A genuine reason for visiting that matches permitted activities

• Enough money to support your stay, including accommodation and daily expenses

• Clear intent to leave the UK at the end of your visit

• No issues that breach UK immigration rules

Travellers who already hold long-term UK immigration permission do not need an ETA.

Required Documents

The documents required depend on your nationality and the purpose of your travel. Common requirements include:

• A clear scanned copy of your passport bio page

• A recent digital photograph

• A valid email address

• A debit or credit card for the application fee

• Supporting documents related to your travel plans, work, or personal situation

The online system may request extra evidence based on your profile.

The Application Process

Step 1: Confirm the Correct Entry Route

Check the official UK government website to see whether your passport requires an ETA or a Standard Visitor visa. Since the ETA scheme continues to expand, even frequent travellers should recheck before every trip.

- For UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA): https://www.gov.uk/eta

- For Standard Visitor visa: https://www.gov.uk/standard-visitor/apply-standard-visitor-visa

Step 2: Complete the Online Application

Enter your personal details, passport information, and travel plans carefully. All details must match your passport exactly. Inaccurate information may lead to unnecessary delays.

Step 3: Upload Your Documents

Submit your photograph, scanned passport copy, and any requested supporting evidence. The system will notify you if any extra documents are required.

Step 4: Pay and Submit

Pay the application fee through the secure payment system and submit your application form.

Step 5: Receive Your Decision

Your result is sent electronically. Keep a digital or printed copy for your records.

Processing Time and Validity

Processing times vary depending on the entry type and individual circumstances. Your approval notice will confirm how long you can stay. ETA approvals are linked to your passport and can usually be used for multiple trips during their validity period.

Important Points to Keep in Mind

• Apply well before your intended travel date

• Ensure all details match your passport exactly

• Save a copy of your approval on your phone and as a printout

• Always recheck whether your nationality now requires an ETA

• Extensions and changes depend on the type of permission you hold

• Border officials always grant final permission to enter the UK on arrival

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Reference Note

All links in this guide direct you to official UK Government pages. These are the authorised sources for visa guidance, eligibility criteria and application procedures.