UK ETA, US ESTA and EU ETIAS
Three electronic travel authorisations for visa-free visitors. Pick your passport and destination to see which applies, then check the official site. Checked 22 October 2026.
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UK ETA
- Lets you travel to the UK, Jersey, Guernsey or the Isle of Man for up to 6 months.
- Costs £20 on GOV.UK. Other websites may charge more.
- You usually need one rather than a visa if you’re from Europe, the USA, Australia, Canada or certain other countries.
- Not needed with a British or Irish passport, or permission to live, work or study in the UK.
- Each person needs one, including babies and children.
Sources: GOV.UK: ETA, when you don’t need one, checked 22 October 2026.
US ESTA
- For citizens of Visa Waiver Program countries visiting for 90 days or less for business or pleasure.
- You need an e-Passport (with a chip).
- Apply as soon as you start planning; CBP says to apply no later than 72 hours before departure.
- Usually valid for two years, or until your passport expires if sooner.
- Apply only on the official ESTA website or app. Check the fee there: official pages we checked showed different amounts, so we don’t quote one.
Sources: Official ESTA site, CBP, USAGov, checked 22 October 2026.
EU ETIAS
- A future entry requirement for visa-exempt travellers to 30 European countries.
- The official site says: “ETIAS is currently not in operation and no applications for travel authorisations are collected at this point.” The EU will announce the start date several months before launch.
- When it starts: EUR 20 fee, valid for up to three years or until the passport expires, short stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
- It’s separate from the Entry/Exit System (EES), which is already running.
Sources: Official ETIAS site, What is ETIAS, checked 22 October 2026.
Watch out for copycat sites
GOV.UK, CBP and the EU all warn that other websites may charge more or imitate the official service. Use the official links above.