What travel permission (ETA) costs
The UK ETA is one of the most affordable travel authorisations in the world. This guide explains exactly what you pay, how long your ETA lasts, and when you need to renew it.
- Section
- ETA
- Reading time
- 6 min
- Last checked
- 2 September 2026
- Source
- The published Immigration Rules and GOV.UK guidance, linked throughout this guide.
- Rowan does not
- Look at your own case, tell you which route to choose, or say what the Home Office will decide. This guide shows the published rules and where to read them.
In short
- The ETA costs £20 per person (non-refundable).
- Valid for 2 years or until your passport expires.
- Allows multiple visits during the validity period.
- New passport means new ETA application required.
The UK ETA costs £20, is valid for 2 years or until your passport expires, and allows multiple visits. This guide covers the fee, validity period, renewal process, and what happens if your circumstances change.
ETA Fee
The UK ETA costs £20 per person. This is the same fee for all nationalities on the ETA countries list. Key points:
- The fee is non-refundable, even if your ETA is refused
- Children pay the same fee as adults
- Each person needs their own ETA — there are no family or group discounts
- Pay by debit or credit card during the application process
At £20, the UK ETA is cheaper than the US ESTA ($40 since 30 September 2025) and comparable to the EU ETIAS (EUR 20, expected to start in the last quarter of 2026). For comparison with UK visa fees, see our UK visa fees guide.
Validity Period
Your ETA is valid for 2 years from the date it is issued, or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. During the validity period:
- You can visit the UK as many times as you like
- Each visit can last up to 6 months for tourism
- The length of stay permitted depends on your purpose of visit
- You do not need to apply for a new ETA for each trip
When You Need a New ETA
You must apply for a new ETA if:
- Your ETA expires. After 2 years, apply again.
- Your passport expires. The ETA is linked to your passport number. A new passport means a new ETA.
- Your ETA is cancelled. If the Home Office cancels your ETA for any reason.
There is no "renewal" process — you simply apply for a new ETA using the same application process.
Cost for Families
Every family member needs their own ETA. For example:
- Family of 2 adults: £40
- Family of 2 adults + 2 children: £80
- Family of 2 adults + 3 children: £100
You can apply for family members using the same app or online service. See the application guide.
ETA vs Visa Costs
The ETA is far cheaper than a UK visa. For comparison:
- ETA: £20 (valid 2 years, multiple entries)
- Visitor visa: from £135 (6 months). See our visitor visa guide.
- Student visa: £558. See our student visa guide.
The ETA is designed for short visits. If you need to work, study, or stay long-term, see our ETA vs visa comparison.
Avoid Unofficial Websites
Only apply through the official GOV.UK website or the official UK ETA app. Third-party websites may charge significantly more than £20 for the same service. The official application is at GOV.UK.
Transit
If you are only transiting through the UK, you need an ETA if you pass through UK border control (landside transit). GOV.UK says you do not need one if you stay airside without passing through border control; check with your airline if you are not sure. The same £20 fee and 2-year validity apply.
Next Steps
Check if you need a UK ETA, then apply through the official GOV.UK service.
Related guides:
Questions and answers
How much does a UK ETA cost?
The UK ETA costs £20 per person. This fee is non-refundable, even if your application is refused. Children pay the same fee as adults.
How long is a UK ETA valid?
A UK ETA is valid for 2 years from the date of issue, or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. During this period, you can make multiple visits to the UK.
Do I need a new ETA if I get a new passport?
Yes. The ETA is linked to your passport. If you get a new passport, you must apply for a new ETA, even if your previous ETA has not expired.
This guide is general information about published immigration rules. It is not advice about an individual application under s.82 Immigration and Asylum Act 1999, and Rowan is not regulated by the Immigration Advice Authority. Immigration rules change several times a year. For advice on a particular situation, contact an adviser authorised by the Immigration Advice Authority or an immigration solicitor. Always check GOV.UK for the authoritative current rules.