Do I need an ETA to transit through the UK?

If your nationality requires an ETA, you generally need one even for airside transit (staying within the airport). Some nationalities may be exempt from transit ETAs if they remain airside and meet specific conditions.

Can I leave the airport during a UK transit?

If you have an ETA, you can leave the airport during your transit since the ETA allows entry to the UK for up to 6 months. If you only have a transit visa, you must remain in the transit area.

How long can I stay in the UK on transit with an ETA?

With an ETA, you can technically stay up to 6 months as a visitor. However, if you are only transiting, border officials may ask about your plans. If your purpose is genuinely transit, a brief stop is expected.

UK ETA for Transit: Do You Need One? 2026

Most travellers transiting through the UK need an ETA if their nationality requires one. The ETA covers both airside and landside transit. This guide explains the rules and exceptions.

Understanding UK Transit

Transit through the UK means passing through a UK airport on your way to another country. There are two types:

Airside transit. You stay within the airport's international transit area and do not pass through UK border control. Your bags are checked through to your final destination.
Landside transit. You pass through UK border control — for example, because you need to change airports (Heathrow to Gatwick), collect baggage and re-check it, or your flight arrives on a different day.

When You Need an ETA for Transit

If your nationality is on the ETA countries list, you generally need an ETA for any UK transit. The ETA covers both airside and landside transit. It also allows you to leave the airport if you wish.

If you are a national of a visa-required country (not on the ETA list), you may need a separate transit visa instead.

Exceptions

Some travellers may be able to transit airside without an ETA. Check the GOV.UK visa checker for your specific nationality and circumstances. You should also confirm with your airline, as carriers check travel documents before boarding.

Changing Airports

If your journey requires you to change airports in the UK (for example, arriving at Heathrow and departing from Gatwick or Stansted), you must pass through UK border control. This means you definitely need an ETA (or a visa if your nationality requires one).

How to Get an ETA for Transit

The process is the same as for a regular visit. See our ETA application process guide. The cost is £10 and it is valid for 2 years, so it covers future transits as well.

At the Airport

Airlines will check your ETA status before boarding. At the UK airport:

If transiting airside, follow the "International Connections" or "Flight Connections" signs
If transiting landside (or if you wish to leave the airport), go through UK border control

What If My ETA Is Refused?

If your ETA is refused, you will not be able to transit through the UK. You will need to:

Book a route that does not transit the UK
Or apply for a transit visa if your nationality allows it

Do I Need an ETA If...

I have a connecting flight on the same ticket? Yes, if your nationality requires an ETA.
I am staying less than 24 hours? Yes, the duration of your transit does not affect the requirement.
I already have a visa for my destination country? Having a visa for another country does not exempt you from the UK ETA requirement.
I am a child? Yes, children need their own ETA.

Common Travel Area

If you are travelling between the UK and Ireland, note that the Common Travel Area (CTA) means there are normally no passport controls between the two countries. However, you should still have valid travel documents. See our Ireland-UK travel guide.

Next Steps

If you are transiting the UK, apply for your ETA before booking flights. Apply through GOV.UK.

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