Visitor visas
UK Standard Visitor: choosing and preparing your route
Check whether your planned UK visit needs a visa, an ETA or another arrangement before starting an application.
Read guideUK ETA: what to check before applying
A UK electronic travel authorisation is separate from a visa. Check the current eligibility and exemption rules for the passport you will use.
Begin with the government route checker
Whether an ETA is relevant depends on your nationality and circumstances. Existing UK status or another exemption may change what you need. Do not infer the answer from your departure airport or your country of residence.
Use the passport you intend to travel with
Review the official ETA page for application details and passport instructions. Before applying, check the document itself and make sure you can distinguish its expiry date from its issue date. Keep a clear record of which passport you used, especially if you hold more than one.
Treat approval as one part of preparation
An ETA is not a guarantee of admission. Keep your trip purpose and supporting information ready for travel, and revisit the official guidance if you renew a passport or your circumstances change. Compare any private-service charge with the government application route before choosing how to proceed.
Common questions
Is VisaTravel the UK government ETA service?
No. VisaTravel is a private company. The official government route is linked below.
Should I apply simply because I am connecting through the UK?
Check the current transit rules and the details of your connection first.
Official sources
Confirm current requirements, fees and instructions with the responsible authority.
Private visa guidance and application help. Not a government agency. Government authorities decide applications and admission. Check current official instructions for your circumstances.