What is the UK Electronic Travel Authorization? 

 The UK ETA is a digital travel authorization required for most foreign visitors entering the United Kingdom.  Similar to the U.S. ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization), the ETA aims to bolster border security while streamlining the travel experience for international visitors. 

Once approved, an ETA allows multiple trips to the UK for stays of up to 6 months at a time within a 2-year period, or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.  

The application fee is £10, and the process can be completed either online or via the UK ETA app. Processing may take up to three business days, so it’s important to apply well in advance of your trip. 

Important note: The ETA is not a visa and does not replace the visa requirement for those who need one. Instead, it is an additional step for travelers who do not require a visa for short-term stays, such as tourists, business travelers, or those transiting through the UK. 

If an ETA application is refused, there is no right to appeal. However, individuals who are rejected may apply for a visit visa. 

 

Who needs an ETA? 

The UK is gradually implementing its ETA program in stages. Initially launched in 2023 for travelers from certain Middle Eastern countries, including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Jordan, the program will expand significantly starting in 2025. 

• January 8, 2025: Travelers from non-European countries, including the U.S., Canada, and Australia, will be required to obtain an ETA prior to traveling to the UK.  

• April 2, 2025: European citizens will also need an ETA, making this a global requirement for all visa-exempt travelers. The application process will begin on March 5, 2025. 

 

Why has your ETA been refused? 

An ETA may be refused for several reasons, including criminal activity, prior violations of immigration laws (such as overstaying a visa, breaching visa conditions, or using deception in a previous application), providing false information, having a previous visitor visa application refused (without a subsequent approval), or having an ETA canceled without the approval of a new visa application. There is no right to administrative review or appeal against the refusal decision. 

 

What do you need to do now? 

If the ETA is refused, for example due to a criminal conviction, the applicant will need to apply for a visa. In most cases, this will involve applying for a visitor visa. For some applicants, securing the visa may resolve the issue, allowing them to travel to the UK with the visa. Once they have the visa, an ETA will no longer be required. 

However, some applicants may still encounter issues with their visitor visa application, which could result in a refusal. For instance, the immigration rules specify that a visitor visa application must be refused if the applicant: 

(a) has been convicted of a criminal offence in the UK or overseas for which they have received a custodial sentence of less than 12 months, unless more than 12 months have passed since the end of the custodial sentence 

(b) has been convicted of a criminal offence in the UK or overseas for which they have received a non-custodial sentence, or received an out-of-court disposal that is recorded on their criminal record, unless more than 12 months have passed since the end of the sentence 

Visa applicants with a criminal conviction which does not fall for mandatory refusal, may still be refused by the Home Office on a discretionary basis. 

 

How can Muldoon Britton Help? 

If you require assistance with your visitor visa application, contact Muldoon Britton today. We provide expert guidance to visa applicants whose ETA has been refused. Our team will help you understand the reasons for the refusal, advise you on the most effective course of action, and offer comprehensive support with your visa application.