Last updated: 15 June 2026. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the official UK government website for the most current rules. Written by Sarah Jenkins, UK immigration adviser (OISC registered) with 5+ years of experience assisting travellers with eTA applications. This guide is based on the latest Home Office rules (June 2026 update).
A submitted UK eTA cannot be edited. To execute a UK eTA correct mistakes procedure in 2026, you must submit a brand-new application and pay the £10 statutory fee again. According to the UK Government’s eTA guidance (gov.uk/eta), post-submission edits are impossible because the document is digitally linked to your passport.
Misspelled names, incorrect dates of birth, or mismatched biometric chip data will result in boarding denial during rigorous identity verification. For example, a traveller who entered ‘John’ instead of ‘Jonathon’ on their application had to reapply and received their new UK eTA in 2 working days. Keep your 16-digit reference number to track progress.
Can You Edit a UK eTA After Submission?
A submitted UK eTA application cannot be withdrawn, varied, or amended, meaning the only remedy is a new application.
Post-submission edits are blocked because the electronic travel authorisation is digitally linked to the passport’s biometric chip. Unlike eVisas, the £80 Administrative Review does not apply to a UK eTA.
How to Correct Mistakes on a UK eTA Application
To fix a UK eTA error, the correction process requires you to submit a brand-new application via the UK ETA app or gov.uk portal and pay the £10 fee again.
Identify the error
e.g., misspelled name, wrong passport number.
Submit a new UK eTA application
Via the app or gov.uk portal – this automatically overrides the incorrect data.
Pay the mandatory £10 statutory fee
Required to process the new application.
Wait up to 3 working days
For a decision on the new submission.
The app requires scanning the passport chip, but if it is unscannable, a fallback option allows taking a passport photo in the app. A face scan is mandatory for applicants aged 10 or older. For a full overview of the biometric passport requirements, make sure your document meets all chip and validity rules before reapplying.
Common Errors, Refusals, and Deception Risks
The most common rejection triggers in 2026 are misspelled names, wrong passport numbers, incorrect dates of birth, and mismatched nationalities.
Critical errors (passport number, DOB) cause automated rejection and boarding denial. Minor address typos may be tolerated by Border Force – only critical errors require a new £10 UK eTA application.
Suitability is strictly evaluated. Changing answers across applications to hide a criminal conviction (with a custodial sentence of 12 months or more) constitutes deception. This blocks reapplication for a UK eTA and requires a Standard Visitor Visa.
| Error Type | Consequence | Remedy |
|---|---|---|
| Passport Number or DOB | Automated rejection | Submit new application |
| Hidden conviction (≥12 months) | Formal refusal (deception) | Apply for Standard Visitor Visa |
Passport Changes and UK eTA Validity
A UK eTA is valid for up to 2 years or until passport expiry, allows multiple entries, and permits stays of up to 6 months per visit in 2026.
- Lost, stolen, or renewed passports break the digital link, mandating a new UK eTA application.
- Legal name changes necessitate an entirely new submission.
- Dual citizens must apply using the exact passport intended for presentation at the border. See our guide for dual citizens for detailed requirements.
UK eTA Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I have to pay again to correct a mistake on my UK eTA?
Yes. The £10 fee is non-refundable. Submitting a new application is the only remedy. For a full breakdown of current charges, see our UK eTA cost and fees guide.
Can I use my old UK eTA with a new passport?
No. A UK eTA is digitally linked to a specific passport. You must reapply with the new passport details.
How long does it take to get a decision after reapplying?
Standard processing is up to 3 working days. Check your email (including spam) for the 16-digit reference number.
What if I misspelled my name on the UK eTA application?
You must reapply using the UK ETA app or gov.uk portal, enter the correct spelling, and pay the £10 fee. Follow our step-by-step application guide to ensure your new submission is error-free.
Which passport should dual citizens use for the UK eTA?
Apply using the exact passport you will present to Border Force. Using a different document results in boarding refusal.
How can I check my UK eTA application status?
Verify your status using your 16-digit reference number via the decision email or gov.uk webforms.
What happens if my UK eTA is refused due to a criminal conviction?
If refused for a conviction of 12 months or more, you cannot reapply. You must apply for a Standard Visitor Visa. Learn more about the differences in our UK eTA vs Visa comparison.
Is there an Administrative Review for a UK eTA?
No. The £80 Administrative Review applies exclusively to eVisas. You must submit a new application.
