UK ETA for Brazilian Citizens: Complete Guide 2026

Brazil and the United Kingdom have enjoyed increasingly warm diplomatic and tourism ties, and since 2024, Brazilian passport holders have been able to visit the UK without a traditional visa. However, under the new UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, Brazilian citizens must now obtain an ETA before travelling. This comprehensive guide covers everything Brazilian travellers need to know about the UK ETA in 2026, from application steps and costs to flight routes and what to expect at the UK border.

What Is the UK ETA and Why Do Brazilian Citizens Need It?

The UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a digital travel permit that was introduced by the UK government as part of its plan to fully digitalise border controls. It is not a visa, but rather a pre-travel screening requirement that all visa-exempt travellers must obtain before entering or transiting through the United Kingdom.

For Brazilian citizens, the ETA became a requirement on 8 January 2025. Since that date, all Brazilian passport holders travelling to the UK must hold a valid ETA before boarding their flight. As of 25 February 2026, enforcement is fully in place, meaning airlines will check for a valid ETA at departure and travellers without one may be refused boarding.

The ETA was designed to strengthen UK border security by screening travellers before they arrive, rather than only at the border. It allows the Home Office to run background checks against immigration and security databases in advance, making the arrival process smoother and more secure for everyone.

Brazil is one of the countries that gained visa-exempt status for short UK visits in recent years, which means Brazilians do not need a full visa for tourism, business visits, or transit. However, the ETA is now mandatory for all such visits. Think of it as a digital key that unlocks your permission to travel to the UK.

UK ETA Requirements for Brazilian Citizens

To apply for a UK ETA, Brazilian citizens must meet the following requirements:

• Valid Brazilian passport: Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay in the UK. While there is no strict six-month validity rule like some countries impose, it is strongly recommended that your passport has at least six months of validity remaining when you travel.
• Digital passport photo: You will need to provide a recent facial photograph as part of the application. This can be taken using your smartphone through the UK ETA app. The photo must meet specific UK ETA photo requirements including a plain background and neutral expression.
• Valid email address: All ETA communications, including approval and updates, are sent by email.
• Payment method: A debit or credit card to pay the application fee.
• No UK immigration violations: Applicants must not have any history of immigration offences, deportation, or overstaying in the UK.
• No criminal record concerns: Serious criminal convictions may lead to an ETA refusal.

It is important to note that Brazilian citizens who hold dual nationality with a UK or EU passport should check which document is most appropriate for their travel, as different rules may apply. If you hold a Brazilian passport only, the ETA is your required travel authorisation for visiting the UK.

How to Apply for a UK ETA from Brazil: Step-by-Step

Applying for the UK ETA is a straightforward process that can be completed entirely online from anywhere in Brazil. Here is a step-by-step guide:

1. Download the UK ETA app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store, or visit the official GOV.UK ETA application page.
2. Create an account using your email address. You will receive a verification code to confirm your identity.
3. Scan your passport using your smartphone’s NFC chip reader (available on most modern phones). If your phone does not have NFC, you can enter your passport details manually.
4. Take a selfie photo following the on-screen instructions. This biometric photo will be matched against your passport image.
5. Answer the eligibility questions about your criminal history, immigration record, and purpose of travel.
6. Review your application carefully. Double-check that all passport details match exactly, as errors can cause delays or refusal.
7. Pay the fee of £20 (approximately R$115 at current exchange rates). Payment is accepted by debit or credit card.
8. Submit and wait for approval. Most ETAs are approved within minutes, but processing can take up to 3 working days in some cases.

For a more detailed walkthrough of the application process, see our UK ETA application guide.

Tip for Brazilian applicants: Make sure your phone’s language is set to English or Portuguese when using the app. The interface supports multiple languages, but some Brazilian users have reported that keeping the phone in English avoids occasional translation glitches in the passport scanning step.

UK ETA Cost and Validity for Brazilian Travellers

The UK ETA currently costs £20 per person. This fee applies to all applicants, including children and infants, each of whom needs their own individual ETA. The UK government has announced plans to increase the fee to £20 at some point in 2026, though the exact date has not been confirmed.

Once approved, the ETA is valid for 2 years from the date of issue, or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. During its validity period, you can use your ETA for multiple entries to the UK, with each visit lasting up to 6 months.

This is excellent value for Brazilian travellers who visit the UK regularly, whether for business meetings, tourism, visiting family, or attending events. A single £20 payment covers unlimited entries over two years.

If you are travelling as a family, remember that each person, including babies and children, requires their own ETA. Parents or guardians can apply on behalf of minors. For more information on family travel, see our UK ETA for children and families guide.

Flying from Brazil to the UK: Routes and Airports

Brazil has excellent air connectivity with the United Kingdom, with several direct and connecting flight options available from major Brazilian cities.

Direct flights:

• LATAM Airlines operates direct flights from São Paulo Guarulhos International Airport (GRU) to London Heathrow (LHR). This is the primary direct route between Brazil and the UK, with a flight time of approximately 11 to 12 hours.
• British Airways also operates direct flights on the São Paulo–London Heathrow route, providing another excellent option for Brazilian travellers.
• Virgin Atlantic has offered seasonal direct services from São Paulo to London, though schedules vary by season.

Connecting flights:

• From Rio de Janeiro (GIG), travellers typically connect through São Paulo or a European hub such as Lisbon, Madrid, or Paris.
• TAP Air Portugal is a popular choice for Brazilians, with connections through Lisbon (LIS). Given that Portuguese is the shared language, many Brazilian travellers find the Lisbon connection convenient and comfortable.
• Iberia offers connections through Madrid (MAD), and Air France through Paris (CDG).
• From cities like Brasília, Belo Horizonte, Recife, and Salvador, travellers typically connect through São Paulo or a European hub.

When arriving in the UK, most Brazilian travellers land at London Heathrow (Terminal 3 or 5), which is the UK’s largest and busiest international airport. Other possible arrival airports include London Gatwick, Manchester, and Edinburgh, depending on your route.

Important: Your ETA must be approved before you board your flight in Brazil. Airlines are required to verify your ETA status at check-in, and you may be denied boarding if you do not hold a valid ETA.

Do Brazilian Citizens Need an ETA for Transit Through the UK?

Yes, Brazilian citizens need a valid UK ETA even if they are only transiting through a UK airport and not passing through immigration. This is one of the most important changes under the new ETA system.

There are two types of transit through the UK:

• Airside transit: You stay within the airport’s international zone and do not pass through UK border control. An ETA is still required.
• Landside transit: You pass through UK border control, perhaps to change terminals, collect baggage, or stay overnight. An ETA is definitely required.

This is particularly relevant for Brazilian travellers connecting through London Heathrow to destinations in Ireland, continental Europe, or elsewhere. Even if you have no intention of visiting the UK itself, you must hold a valid ETA to transit.

For full details on transit requirements, refer to our UK ETA transit rules guide.

UK ETA Compared to Other Travel Authorisations

Brazilian travellers may be familiar with similar electronic travel authorisation systems from other countries. Here is how the UK ETA compares:

One key advantage of the UK ETA for Brazilian visitors is the generous 6-month maximum stay per visit, which is significantly longer than the 90-day limits imposed by the US ESTA or the upcoming EU ETIAS. This makes the UK particularly attractive for extended tourism, business trips, or visiting family.

For a comprehensive comparison of the UK ETA with other systems, read our UK ETA 2026 rules and cost guide.

What Can You Do in the UK With an ETA?

The UK ETA permits Brazilian citizens to enter the United Kingdom for a wide range of purposes, including:

• Tourism: Sightseeing, visiting attractions, attending cultural events, and exploring the UK’s cities and countryside.
• Business visits: Attending meetings, conferences, trade fairs, and professional events. Note that you cannot take paid employment with a UK employer under an ETA.
• Visiting family and friends: Staying with relatives or friends who live in the UK.
• Short-term study: Attending short courses or academic conferences lasting up to 6 months.
• Medical treatment: Receiving private medical treatment in the UK.
• Transit: Passing through the UK to reach another destination.
• Creative and sporting events: Participating in or attending events as an invited guest.

Activities not permitted under an ETA include paid employment, long-term study (over 6 months), or accessing public healthcare funds. If you need to work or study long-term in the UK, you will need to apply for the appropriate visa through the UK’s points-based immigration system.

Practical Travel Tips for Brazilian Visitors to the UK

Here are some practical tips specifically for Brazilian travellers heading to the UK:

Currency and payments: The UK uses the British Pound Sterling (GBP). As of early 2026, £1 is approximately R$7.20. Card payments are accepted virtually everywhere in the UK, including contactless payments. Many Brazilian banks offer international debit cards with competitive exchange rates, and services like Wise (formerly TransferWise) or Nubank’s international features can help you manage currency conversion at better rates than airport exchange bureaus.

Language: While English is the primary language, the UK is a multicultural country and you will find Portuguese-speaking communities, particularly in London. Areas such as Stockwell and Vauxhall in South London have historically large Brazilian communities, with Portuguese-speaking shops, restaurants, and services. However, all official interactions at the border and throughout the UK will be in English.

Weather: The UK climate is significantly cooler and wetter than most of Brazil. Even in summer (June to August), temperatures rarely exceed 25°C, and rain can occur at any time of year. Pack layers, a waterproof jacket, and an umbrella regardless of when you visit.

Electrical plugs: The UK uses Type G plugs (three rectangular pins) at 230V. Brazilian travellers will need a plug adapter, as Brazil uses Types N and C. These adapters are inexpensive and widely available at UK airports and shops.

Time zone: The UK is on GMT (UTC+0) in winter and BST (UTC+1) in summer. Depending on the time of year, the time difference between São Paulo and London is typically 3 to 5 hours.

Travel insurance: While not a legal requirement for ETA holders, comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended. Medical treatment in the UK can be very expensive for visitors without insurance. Make sure your policy covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and lost baggage.

Driving: Brazilians can drive in the UK on their Brazilian licence for up to 12 months. However, remember that the UK drives on the left side of the road, which is the opposite of Brazil.

UK Border Control: What to Expect on Arrival

When your flight from Brazil lands in the UK, here is what to expect at border control:

1. Follow the signs for “All Other Passports” or “Non-UK/EU Passports” after disembarking.
2. eGates: Brazilian passport holders may be eligible to use the automated eGates at major UK airports, depending on current eligibility rules. These gates use facial recognition to match you against your passport photo and speed up the entry process. If eGates are not available, proceed to the manned immigration desks.
3. Present your passport: The border officer will scan your passport. Your ETA is digitally linked to your passport, so you do not need to show a printed copy, but having your approval email accessible on your phone is sensible.
4. Answer questions: The officer may ask about the purpose of your visit, how long you plan to stay, where you will be staying, and whether you have a return flight booked. Answer honestly and concisely.
5. Entry stamp: You may receive a stamp in your passport confirming your entry date.
6. Customs: After passing immigration, collect your luggage and proceed through customs. If you have nothing to declare, use the green channel. Be aware of UK customs allowances for goods, alcohol, and tobacco.

For a detailed guide on what to expect at the UK border, see our UK border control and customs rules guide.

If your ETA application was refused, or if you have concerns about possible refusal at the border, consult our UK ETA refusal help guide for advice on next steps.

Frequently Asked Questions: UK ETA for Brazilian Citizens

How long does the UK ETA take to process for Brazilian applicants?
Most ETAs are approved within minutes. However, in some cases, processing can take up to 3 working days. It is recommended to apply at least one week before your travel date to allow for any delays.

Can I apply for the UK ETA at the airport in Brazil?
While technically possible, applying at the last minute is strongly discouraged. If your ETA is not approved instantly, you could miss your flight. Apply well in advance of your travel date.

Do children need a UK ETA?
Yes, every traveller, including infants and children, needs their own ETA. A parent or guardian can apply on behalf of minors.

Can I work in the UK with an ETA?
No. The ETA does not permit paid employment in the UK. You may attend business meetings, conferences, and professional events, but you cannot receive a salary from a UK employer. If you wish to work in the UK, you will need to apply for a work visa.

What happens if my ETA is refused?
If your UK ETA application is refused, you will receive a notification explaining the reason. You may be able to reapply or, in some cases, apply for a standard visitor visa instead. Our ETA refusal guide explains your options.

Does the ETA guarantee entry to the UK?
No. The ETA grants you permission to travel to the UK, but the final decision on entry is made by the border officer at the point of arrival. In the vast majority of cases, travellers with a valid ETA are admitted without issue.

Can I extend my stay beyond 6 months?
Generally, no. The ETA allows stays of up to 6 months per visit. If you need to stay longer, you would typically need to leave the UK and re-enter, or apply for a relevant visa before your ETA-permitted stay expires.

I have dual Brazilian-Portuguese citizenship. Do I need an ETA?
If you hold a Portuguese (EU) passport, you do not need a UK ETA, as EU citizens can enter the UK for short visits without one. You should travel on your Portuguese passport in this case. If you travel on your Brazilian passport, you will need an ETA.

Is the São Paulo to London direct flight the only option?
No, but it is the most convenient. You can also fly via Lisbon with TAP Air Portugal, via Madrid with Iberia, or via other European hubs. However, if transiting through the UK on a connecting flight, remember that you need an ETA even for transit.

For more information about the UK ETA programme, visit the UK ETA requirements 2026 guide or check the official GOV.UK ETA page.