📆 When should you apply for an ETA before travelling to the UK ? 🇬🇧
✈️ Introduction
Are you planning a trip to the UK in 2026? Have you heard of ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation)? This electronic authorisation is now compulsory for certain travellers wishing to visit the UK without a visa. But when should you apply for an ETA before you leave? In this article, we explain everything you need to know to make sure you get your ETA on time, avoid unpleasant surprises and make the most of your stay.
ℹ️ What is the UK ETA?
The ETA is an electronic travel authorisation introduced to strengthen security at the UK’s borders. It mainly concerns travellers from visa-exempt countries, who can now apply for authorisation online before entering the UK.
- ⏳ Validity: usually 2 years, or until passport expires
- 📅 Length of stay: up to 6 months
- ⏱️ Time taken to obtain: often 24 to 72 hours
📅 When should you apply for a UK ETA?
1️⃣ Apply as soon as you have your travel dates 🗓️
The golden rule is to apply for your ETA as soon as you know your travel dates. Although most applications are validated quickly, some cases may take longer to process.
- ⏰ Allow at least 2 to 3 weeks before your departure
- 🚀 Official deadlines are 72 hours, but it’s better to plan ahead
2️⃣ Don’t wait until the last minute ⚠️
- ❌ Some applications may be refused or require additional documents
- ⏳ A late refusal can jeopardise your trip
- 🔄 You can reapply, but it takes time
3️⃣ During peak tourist season, plan ahead even more 🌞
- 🏖️ During UK school holidays, times can be longer
- 🗓️ Apply at least 1 month before departure
📝 How do I apply for a UK ETA?
- 🌐 Go to an official and reliable website (such as eta-uk-apply.com)
- ✍️ Fill in the form with your personal details and your passport
- 💳 Pay the fee online (around €29)
- 📧 Receive your ETA by email within 24 to 72 hours
⚠️ Beware of fraudulent sites that offer exorbitantly priced applications or steal your data.
❓ What should I do if my application is refused?
- 🔍 Check the information you have entered and start the application again
- 📞 Contact the official customer service department to find out why
- 🛂 As a last resort, apply for a classic visa
✅ Tips for a successful UK ETA application
- 🛂 Have a valid and legible passport
- 🖋️ Fill in all the information carefully
- 🔒 Pay on a secure official website
- ⏳ Apply early to avoid the unexpected
🎯 Conclusion
For a worry-free trip to the UK, applying for your ETA at least 2 to 3 weeks before departure is essential. This guarantees that your application will be validated on time and avoids unnecessary complications.
Don’t wait until the last minute, especially in high season! Use a reliable service like eta-uk-apply.com to get your authorisation quickly and leave with peace of mind.
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