ETA London 2026: Complete guide to filling in the form and travelling stress-free 🇬🇧

🌍 Why is London still such a magnet for travellers?

London is not only the political and economic capital of the UK, it’s also one of the most visited cities in the world. Whether you’re a student, expatriate, tourist or professional, it’s almost impossible not to pass through this metropolis.

Since the introduction of the UK’s ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation), a new entry requirement applies to travellers from many visa-exempt countries. If you are planning a trip to London or anywhere in the UK in 2026, this article will guide you step by step.

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📌 ETA London: what exactly is it?

The UK ETA is a compulsory electronic travel authorisation for entering England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

• 100% digital document, linked to your passport
• Valid for 2 years (or until your passport expires)
• Cost: €29 per traveller
• Compulsory even for short stays (tourism, study, business)

👉 Fill in your official form here: London ETA application form

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📝 How do I fill in the ETA form for London?

The ETA England form must be completed online. Here are the steps to avoid any blockage:

1. Valid biometric passport (minimum 6 months after the planned return date).
2. Accurate personal details: name, date of birth, address.
3. Reason for travel: tourism, study, temporary work.
4. Secure online payment (Visa or Mastercard).
5. Valid email address to receive authorisation (PDF).

⚡ Average processing time: between 30 minutes and 24 hours.

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🎓 London and international students: an educational crossroads

Every year, thousands of young people choose London for their studies. Universities such as UCL, King’s College or LSE attract students from all over the world.

➡️ In this case, ETA London is essential for enrolling, travelling and returning during the holidays.

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💼 London and professional opportunities

If you’re going on an internship, short assignment or conference, you’ll also need to obtain an ETA. As London is a financial hub (City of London, Canary Wharf), checks are strict.

📌 Tip: anticipate your ETA request at least 72 hours in advance to avoid any risk of delay before your meetings or events.

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🏙️ Tourism in London: what to expect in 2026

Big Ben, Tower Bridge, Buckingham Palace… but also modern districts like Shoreditch or Canary Wharf: London remains a city that mixes tradition and modernity.

• 🚇 Transport: Oyster Card for smart travel.
• 🛍️ Shopping: Oxford Street, Harrods, Camden Market.
• 🍴 Gastronomy: from fish & chips to Michelin-starred restaurants.

➡️ Without an ETA, it’s impossible to board a plane to London, even for a weekend.

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❌ Common mistakes with the London ETA form

• Name misspelt (must match passport exactly ).
• Invalid email address (no receipt of document).
• Passport about to expire.
• Double application sent too quickly (risk of blockage).

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📊 ETA London 2026: how long will it take to get it?

Traveller’s situation	Average processing time
Perfect form off-peak hours	1 to 3 hours
Classic application	6 to 12 hours
Submitted at night/weekends	12 to 24 hours
Manual safety check	48 to 72 hours

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💡 ETA London FAQ

➡️ Do I need to print my ETA?
No, it is electronically linked to your passport. But keep a PDF copy on your smartphone.

➡️ Is my London ETA valid for the whole of England?
Yes, it covers the whole of the UK.

➡️ Can I use the same ETA for several stays?
Yes, as long as your passport remains valid.

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🎯 Conclusion: stress-free travel in London with the ETA

The London 2026 ETA is a compulsory step, but with the right preparation, it poses no problems. Whether you’re coming for a tourist weekend, a year of study or a professional assignment, anticipate your application to travel stress-free.

👉 Go directly to the form here : London ETA application form