🇬🇧 UK ETA application: 7 common mistakes that lead to refusal (and how to avoid them)

🔍 Heading to the UK in 2026? Whether it’s for a city trip to London, a stay in Scotland, a work assignment in Wales or a stopover in Northern Ireland,ETA UK (Electronic Travel Authorization) is now compulsory for citizens of many countries, including France, Belgium, Switzerland and Canada.

👉 But be careful: an error in your application can result in automatic rejection without refund.

In this article, discover the 7 most common mistakes when applying for a UK ETA and follow our practical advice to avoid rejection.

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❌ 1. Incorrect personal details

The slightest typo in your surname, first name, passport number or date of birth can result in:

• An immediate refusal
• Inability to amend your application
• Loss of fees already incurred

✅ O ur advice: Before validating your form, compare each field with your passport, line by line. Check twice rather than once.

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❌ 2. Incorrect passport photo

Although a photo is not always required, certain nationalities or special cases must provide one. If it is blurred, too old, or does not comply, the application may be rejected.

📸 Minimum requirements:

• Recent colour photo (less than 6 months old)
• Light, plain background
• Face well centred, without tinted glasses or headgear
• No filters or digital alterations

✅ Use an official photo service or a tool that complies with international standards.

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❌ 3. Submitting your application too late

The UK ETA is not instantaneous. Some applications require manual processing by the UK authorities, which can delay approval.

⏱️ Average time: 24 to 72 hours (sometimes longer during busy periods)

✅ Tip: Apply at least 5 days before departure, ideally 1 to 2 weeks in advance.

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❌ 4. Using a fake site or an unsecured service

Many fraudulent sites copy the appearance of official sites. Result: you lose your money, your data, and don’t get any valid documents.

🔐 On eta-uk-apply.com, you benefit from :

• Secure payment
• Manual verification of your application
• 100% customer support in French, 7 days a week
• Fast delivery of your ETA by email

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❌ 5. Ignore the conditions specific to your nationality

Even if you are eligible for the UK ETA, entry conditions may vary depending on:

• The type of stay (tourism, business, transit)
• Length of stay
• Your nationality

✅ Consult the specific guidelines before applying to make sure you choose the right type of document.

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❌ 6. Neglecting additional supporting documents

An ETA does not require as many documents as a visa, but you are strongly advised to have with you:

📘 A passport valid for at least 6 months after the date of entry
📍 Proof of accommodation (hotel reservation, Airbnb contract, etc.)
✈️ A return ticket
💳 Proof of resources (bank statement, financial certificate)

✅ Having these documents available will save you stress in the event of a border check.

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❌ 7. Do not anticipate errors or refusals

💡 Once your ETA has been refused, you can neither amend it nor refund it. You will have to start the application again (and pay again).

✅ By using eta-uk-apply.com, you drastically reduce the risks involved:

• Consistency check by our team
• Correction of errors before submission
• ReactiveFrench-speaking support
• No forms in English or risk of misunderstanding

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🙋‍♂️ Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

🟢 Is the UK ETA compulsory for international travellers in 2026 ?

Yes, the UK ETA will be mandatory for most international travellers from 2026, including visitors from visa-exempt countries.
All eligible travellers will need to apply online for an ETA before boarding a flight, ferry or train to the United Kingdom, even for short stays under 6 months.

The ETA does not replace a visa for travellers who already require one. It only applies to visitors from countries that previously did not need a visa to enter the UK.

⏳ How long does it take to receive an ETA?

Between 24 and 72 hours depending on the case. We strongly advise you not to wait until the last minute.

💰 How much does the UK ETA cost?

29 via our all-inclusive service (simplified form, verification, rapid dispatch and support included).

📅 How long is an ETA valid for?

2 years or until your passport expires – whichever comes first. It allows multiple entries into the UK.

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✅ Why apply for an ETA on eta-uk-apply.com ?

📝 Form 100% in English
🔍 Human verification and personalised assistance
⏱️ Fast processing and sending by email
🔒 Secure payment
📩 7d/7 customer support in English
🎯 Zero stress, zero errors

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🚀 Ready to travel? Apply for your UK ETA in 3 minutes

Click below to start your application with peace of mind :

👉 Apply for my UK ETA now