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| This entry and visa information is tailored to individuals participating in programs like the KGY Program (GapYear) and is based on common travel purposes. |
UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)
The ETA is a digital authorization required for visa-exempt foreign nationals traveling to the UK.
✅ What is an ETA?
Starting January 8, 2025, all visa-exempt travelers entering the UK, must apply for and receive an ETA before their arrival.
- You can start to apply for ETA beginning November 27, 2024.
- From January 8, 2025, an ETA will be mandatory in order to enter the UK.
✅ ETA Application Fee
- The application fee is £10.
- All travelers, including infants and children, must obtain an ETA.
- Applications can be submitted on behalf of others, but fees are non-refundable after submission.
✅ What Can You Do with an ETA?
An ETA allows you to:
- Stay in the UK for up to 6 months for tourism, visiting family or friends, business, or short-term study.
- Stay for up to 3 months under a Creative Worker visa.
- Engage in permitted paid contracts.
- Transit through the UK (even without passing UK border controls).
For other purposes, including work or long-term study, check if you need a visa.
✅ When is an ETA Not Required?
You don’t need an ETA if you:
- Hold a valid UK visa.
- Have permission to live, work, or study in the UK.
- Possess pre-settled or settled status (EU citizens).
- Hold a UK, Irish, or British Overseas Territories passport.
✅ What Can't You Do with an ETA?
An ETA does not permit:
- Staying in the UK for more than 6 months.
- Working for UK companies (paid or unpaid) or self-employment.
- Receiving public funds or benefits.
- Living in the UK through frequent or consecutive visits.
- Registering a marriage or civil partnership.
✅ Documents Required for ETA Application
- A valid passport (copies or digital passports are not accepted).
- A personal email address.
- A payment method (credit/debit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay).
✅ ETA Validity
- The ETA is valid for 2 years, allowing multiple visits to the UK during this period.
- Each stay is limited to 6 months.
- Processing time ranges from 20 minutes to 3 days.
- If you obtain a new passport, you must apply for a new ETA.
✅ How to Apply for an ETA
- Mobile App: Download the "UK ETA" app via the App Store or Google Play.
App Store: UK ETA
Google play: UK ETA
✅ Step-by-Step Online Application Process
- Take or upload a photo of the passport you will use for travel.
- Scan your face using your mobile device (children under 9 are exempt).
- Take or upload your photo.
- Answer questions about yourself.
- Pay the application fee.
⚠️ Important Notes for Online Applications
- Complete the application in one sitting; progress cannot be saved.
- Inactivity for 20 minutes will log you out, and you must restart the application.
- Submitting an application constitutes agreement with the ETA Privacy Notice.
⚠️
This information was compiled based on official sources as of October 2024. Visa regulations are subject to change, so please verify the latest details before departure.
✈️ Check out KGY programs that operating in UK
If you have any questions please feel free too reach out to us at program@koreagapyear.com! 👍🏻
Visa Application Process for the UK: By Country
🇺🇸 United States
- Visit the UK Visa and Immigration (UKVI) website.
- Choose the visa type (e.g., tourist, work, student).
- Complete the application form and upload documents.
- Book a biometrics appointment at the Visa Application Center.
- Processing times: 3-5 weeks.
🇨🇦 Canada
- Apply through the UKVI website.
- Attend a biometrics appointment at the Visa Application Center.
- Processing time: 3-5 weeks.
🇳🇱 Netherlands
- Complete the application on the UKVI portal.
- Submit biometrics at the Visa Application Center.
- Processing time: 3-5 weeks.
🇫🇷 France
- Apply via the UKVI portal.
- Book and attend an appointment at the Visa Application Center.
- Processing time: 3-5 weeks.
🇮🇩 Indonesia
- Apply on the UKVI website.
- Provide biometrics at the Visa Application Center.
- Processing time: 3-5 weeks.
🇩🇪 Germany
- Submit an application on the UKVI website.
- Book a biometrics appointment at the Visa Application Center.
- Processing time: 3-5 weeks.
🇯🇵 Japan
- Visit the UKVI website to apply.
- Submit biometrics at the Visa Application Center.
- Processing time: 3-5 weeks.
🇧🇪 Belgium
- Apply online through the UKVI portal.
- Attend a biometrics appointment.
- Processing time: 3-5 weeks.
🇪🇸 Spain
- Submit an application on the UKVI portal.
- Attend a biometrics appointment.
- Processing time: 3-5 weeks.
🇮🇹 Italy
- Complete the application on the UKVI website.
- Book and attend an appointment for biometrics.
- Processing time: 3-5 weeks.
⚠️ Disclaimer
This post is based on official information as of October 2024. Visa policies may change, so check with the local UK embassy or consulate for the most accurate details before your travel.
References:
- UK Government Website: Gov.uk
- UK Visa Application Centers Worldwide
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