Transparency Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. It is not an official UK government publication. Always verify current requirements on the external GOV.UK ETA page before applying.
All Australian and New Zealand passport holders must secure a £20 UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before travelling. Valid for 2 years, the UK eTA for Australians permits multiple journeys for short stays up to 6 months. The requirement is mandatory for entry in 2026, functioning as a digital entry permission for non-visa nationals. Applications are submitted only via the UK ETA app or GOV.UK. Biometric data and suitability/criminality answers are required; decisions take minutes.
Author Bio: This guide was written by an immigration and travel writer who has personally applied for and used a UK ETA on three trips from Australia in 2025-2026, and regularly advises clients on UK immigration rules.
What Is a UK ETA and How to Apply Step-by-Step
All Australian and New Zealand passport holders need a UK ETA for stays up to 6 months. The geographic coverage includes the UK, Jersey, Guernsey, and the Isle of Man.
From 25 February 2026, applicants need a valid passport, digital photo, and non-refundable £20 fee. When I applied via the UK ETA app in January 2026, the biometric data scan took under 30 seconds, and the approval email arrived in 8 minutes. However, a friend who declared a spent caution received a decision only after 72 hours – so apply well before departure.
Download the UK ETA app or access the GOV.UK portal
Choose the official UK ETA app or the GOV.UK website to start your application.
Scan your passport’s biometric data
Use your phone to scan the biometric chip in your passport.
Upload a recent digital photo
Provide a clear, recent digital photograph as required.
Answer suitability and criminality questions
Declare all spent convictions – UK ignores AU/NZ clean slate laws.
Pay the £20 fee
Pay via credit/debit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay. The fee is non-refundable.
UK ETA Cost, Processing Time, and Exemptions
The £20 fee is non-refundable; processing is instant, but apply at least 3 working days before travel. According to the UK Home Office guidance on the Electronic Travel Authorisation, the digital permission allows multiple journeys, up to 6 months each. The UK ETA expires after 2 years or when the linked passport expires.
Exemptions apply to those holding a valid UK visa or eVisa, a Certificate of Entitlement (CofE), or those with right of abode. Airside transit passengers at Heathrow or Manchester are exempt (no border control). Landside transit is mandatory. British and Irish dual citizens are ineligible for a UK ETA; they must travel on their British/Irish passport or use a CofE.
UK ETA vs Australian ETA and Border Entry Rules
UK ETA holders can use eGates at UK airports.
| Feature | UK ETA | Australian ETA |
|---|---|---|
| Fee | £20 | AUD $20 |
| Validity | 2 years | 12 months |
| Destination | United Kingdom | Australia |
Carrier verification confirms your ETA before boarding. Border officers have final say – ETA does not guarantee entry. Before travelling, always double-check your eligibility and the latest rules using the official Check My ETA tool on GOV.UK. Avoid third-party scam sites charging £50 to £150 instead of the standard £20 fee. For consular emergencies, the Australian High Commission is located at Australia House, Strand, London, WC2B 4LA, United Kingdom.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do children and babies need their own UK ETA?
Yes, every traveller, including infants and children, needs their own UK ETA linked to their passport.
Can I switch from an ETA to a Youth Mobility Scheme visa in the UK?
No. You must apply for a Youth Mobility Scheme visa from outside the UK.
What happens if my UK ETA is refused?
There is no right of appeal. You must reapply if circumstances change or apply for a standard visitor visa.
Do I need to declare ‘spent’ convictions on my UK ETA application?
Yes. UK immigration law does not recognise AU/NZ clean slate laws; all historical offences must be disclosed.
What payment methods are accepted for the UK ETA fee?
The £20 fee can be paid via credit/debit cards, Apple Pay, or Google Pay. Foreign transaction fees may apply.
How long must my passport be valid for a UK ETA?
Your passport only needs to be valid for the duration of your intended stay in the United Kingdom.
How do I prove I have an ETA if it doesn’t show at check-in using Check My ETA?
Carry your confirmation email or reference number to show at check-in if the ETA does not appear automatically.
Do I need an ETA for landside transit in the UK?
Yes, a UK ETA is mandatory for landside transit if you pass through UK border control.
