UK ETA for Indians

What Indian Travellers Need to Know

– UK Visa & Immigration Consultant in India

UK ETA for Indians

India’s visa requirement for UK travel: No changes under the ETA system

Travellers from visa-exempt countries will need to apply for the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to enter the United Kingdom. Improving border security and streamlining entry procedures are the goals of the ETA system, which mandates pre-approval for brief trips. Applicants pay the £10 fees, along with their personal information, trip itinerary, passport photos, and other supporting documents, through the official UK ETA app. Applicants can get an ETA in about 20 minutes, and it will be valid for two years (or until their passport expires, whichever is sooner). Tourists, families, business-related work, and students can enter the country many times for stays of up to six months. Because the ETA is associated digitally with the passport, a new application is necessary in the event that the passport is renewed.

In February 2024 the UK introduced the ETA requirement from Gulf Corporation Council (GCC) countries, but, starting January 8, 2025, passport holders from other non- European countries under the UK’s visa waiver program will also need an ETA. Beginning from April 2, 2025 European Union passport holders will need an ETA as well. The ETA is being implemented in stages, and one should be aware of when their nationality will be included.

India is not one of the exempted countries, hence Indian citizens will need to apply for a visa to enter the United Kingdom. A visa has always been a requirement for Indian nationals to enter the United Kingdom, and ETA does not change this requirement. For Indian travellers wanting to visit the UK, they still have to apply for a Standard Visitor Visa, which allows stays of up to six months for tourism, short-term business, or short- term education.

To apply, follow these steps:

  1. Fill out the online application form.
  2. Pay the visa fees.
  3. Submit required documentation, including a passport, proof of finances, travel itinerary, and invitation letter (if required).
  4. Attend a biometric appointment
  5. Wait for visa decision, which could take up to 3 weeks.

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