Quick answer
A UK ETA decision usually arrives by email within one day. It can take up to 3 working days. Apply at least 3 working days before you travel, and do not travel until you have the email confirming your ETA.
Checked on 10 November 2026 against GOV.UK: Apply for an electronic travel authorisation (ETA).
- Usual decision time: within one day, by email.
- Longest normal wait: up to 3 working days.
- Many applicants who use the UK ETA app get a decision within minutes.
- Recommended timing: apply at least 3 working days before you travel.
- Cost: £20, online or in the UK ETA app.
- An ETA lets you travel to the UK, Jersey, Guernsey or the Isle of Man for up to 6 months.
For more on the fee and how long an ETA lasts, see UK ETA cost and validity.
What to prepare before you apply
Have these ready before you start, so you can submit the application in one go.
- The passport you will travel on. Whether you can apply depends on the nationality shown in your passport. If you hold more than one passport, check eligibility for the one you will use.
- An email address you check often. The decision is sent by email.
- A way to pay £20. The fee is the same online and in the app.
- Your travel dates. You need them to work out your latest safe application date.
For the full list of what the application asks for, see UK ETA requirements.
Steps: when and how to apply
- Check that you need an ETA. Only some nationalities can get one. Others cannot. British National (Overseas) passport holders do not need an ETA or a visa to visit. Use Do I need a UK ETA? to check.
- Count back 3 working days from your travel date. Weekends are not working days. Use the table below.
- Apply on GOV.UK or in the UK ETA app. The process is explained step by step in How to apply for a UK ETA.
- Wait for the confirmation email. You must not travel until you receive it.
- Keep the email. It is your confirmation that you have an ETA.
Latest day to apply, by day of travel
A cautious way to count: do not include the day you apply, and make sure 3 full working days pass before the day you travel.
| You travel on | Apply no later than | Working days counted |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | Tuesday the week before | Wednesday, Thursday, Friday |
| Tuesday | Wednesday the week before | Thursday, Friday, Monday |
| Wednesday | Thursday the week before | Friday, Monday, Tuesday |
| Thursday | Friday the week before | Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday |
| Friday | Monday of the same week | Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday |
| Saturday | Tuesday of the same week | Wednesday, Thursday, Friday |
| Sunday | Tuesday of the same week | Wednesday, Thursday, Friday |
Applying earlier than this gives you more room. You do not have to apply before you book your ticket.
Common mistakes
- Relying on a same-day decision. Most decisions come within one day, but up to 3 working days is normal.
- Travelling while the application is still pending. You must wait for the email confirming you have an ETA.
- Applying with the wrong passport. Eligibility depends on the nationality in the passport you apply with.
- Applying when you do not need an ETA. BN(O) passport holders do not need one to visit.
FAQ
How far in advance should I apply for a UK ETA?
Apply at least 3 working days before you travel. Weekends do not count as working days, so check the table above for your travel day.
Can I travel while my ETA is still being processed?
No. You must wait until you receive the email confirming that you have an ETA.
Do I need my ETA before I book flights?
No. The recommendation is to apply at least 3 working days before you travel, not before you buy your ticket.
Sources
- GOV.UK: Apply for an electronic travel authorisation (ETA)
- GOV.UK: Apply for an electronic travel authorisation (ETA) – guidance
- GOV.UK: Check when you can get an electronic travel authorisation (ETA)
This guide is general information, not legal or immigration advice. BritainEntry is an independent website and is not connected with the UK government.