The UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system has undergone rapid development since its launch in late 2023. This page is your central resource for all UK ETA news and updates, including a complete timeline of changes, recent policy developments, upcoming announcements, and guidance on how to stay informed.

We update this page regularly as new information becomes available. Bookmark it and check back whenever you need the latest on the UK ETA. For the core rules and how to apply, see our complete UK ETA 2026 guide.

Complete UK ETA Timeline: From Launch to Full Enforcement

The UK ETA has been rolled out in carefully planned phases over more than two years. Here is the complete chronological timeline of every significant milestone:

October 2023: Qatar Launch

The ETA system launched on a pilot basis with Qatari nationals. This small-scale rollout allowed the Home Office to test the system, identify issues, and refine the application process before expanding to other nationalities. At launch, the ETA cost £10.

February 2024: GCC Expansion

The ETA requirement was extended to citizens of all Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries: Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. This was the first major expansion beyond the initial pilot. Feedback from GCC travellers helped shape improvements to the application system.

January 2025: Non-European Nationals

In the most significant expansion to date, the ETA became mandatory for all non-European visa-exempt nationals. This brought citizens of countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, Japan, South Korea, and many others into the system. Our guides for Americans, Canadians, and Australians and New Zealanders were published to help these travellers navigate the new requirement.

April 2025: European Nationals and Price Increase

The final phase of the ETA rollout brought EU, EEA, and Swiss nationals into the system. At the same time, the ETA price increased from £10 to £16. This was a significant moment, as it meant that every visa-exempt nationality in the world (except Irish citizens) now needed an ETA to visit the UK. See our EU citizens ETA guide for full details.

25 February 2026: Full Enforcement

After a transition period during which travellers without an ETA could sometimes still board flights and apply on arrival, the UK government began full enforcement of the ETA requirement. Since this date, airlines and carriers are required to check for a valid ETA before allowing passengers to board UK-bound services. Travellers without an approved ETA can be denied boarding.

What Has Changed Recently (2026)

Here are the most significant recent developments affecting the UK ETA:

Full Enforcement Now Active (February 2026)

The most important recent change is that full enforcement of the ETA requirement began on 25 February 2026. During the earlier rollout phases, some flexibility existed for travellers who arrived without an ETA. That flexibility has now ended. Every visa-exempt traveller must have an approved ETA before they begin their journey to the UK.

What this means in practice:

• Airlines check your ETA status before boarding
• No more applying on arrival at UK airports
• Ferry and Eurostar operators also verify ETA status
• The UK ETA app and online portal remain the only official application channels

If you have not yet applied, use our step-by-step application guide to get started.

Price Increase to £20 (In Force Since 8 April 2026)

The UK government increased the ETA fee from £16 to £20 on 8 April 2026. The lower rate is no longer available, and no further increase has been announced.

If you are planning a trip to the UK, you now pay the current £20 rate. The ETA is valid for two years, so even if your trip is months away, applying early is a smart move. Check your eligibility and requirements to see if you can apply today.

For a detailed analysis of the fee increase, see our article on UK ETA fee increase 2026.

Crown Dependencies ETA Launch (April 2026)

The Isle of Man, Jersey, and Guernsey (the Crown Dependencies) are expected to launch their own ETA requirements in April 2026. While the Crown Dependencies are part of the Common Travel Area, they have their own immigration systems. The exact details of their ETA systems – including whether they will use the same UK ETA platform or a separate system – are still being finalised.

For the latest information, see our Crown Dependencies ETA guide.

Upcoming Changes and What to Watch

Based on government announcements and policy trends, here are the developments we expect in the coming months and years:

ETA Price Increase

The increase from £16 to £20 took effect on 8 April 2026. No further increase has been announced.

Crown Dependencies Integration

The April 2026 launch of ETA requirements for the Crown Dependencies will affect travellers visiting the Isle of Man, Jersey, and Guernsey. Questions remain about whether a single UK ETA will cover all territories or whether separate applications will be needed.

EU ETIAS Launch Impact

When the European Union launches its ETIAS system (expected 2026 or 2027), UK citizens will need to apply for ETIAS to visit EU countries. This could prompt the UK to review its own ETA arrangements, including potential reciprocal fee adjustments. See our UK ETA vs EU ETIAS comparison.

System Improvements

The Home Office continues to refine the ETA application process. Potential improvements include:

• Faster processing times
• Enhanced mobile app functionality
• Better integration with airline booking systems
• Improved support for travellers whose applications are delayed

Potential Policy Changes

Areas where future policy changes are possible (though not confirmed):

• ETA validity period adjustments
• Changes to the maximum stay allowed per visit
• Possible introduction of different ETA categories (e.g., for business, transit)
• Introduction of a digital nomad visa alongside or separate from the ETA

How the UK ETA Has Evolved: Key Statistics

Since its launch, the UK ETA system has processed millions of applications. Here are the key numbers:

• System launch: October 2023
• Current cost: £20 (up from £10 at launch)
• Eligible nationalities: Approximately 85 visa-exempt countries
• Validity: 2 years from date of issue
• Maximum stay: 6 months per visit
• Average processing time: Under 3 hours for most applications
• Application methods: Online portal and mobile app

How to Stay Informed About UK ETA Changes

With the ETA system still relatively new and evolving, staying up to date is important. Here are the best ways to keep informed:

Official Sources

• GOV.UK ETA page: The official UK government page for ETA information. This is always the definitive source.
• GOV.UK email alerts: You can sign up for email notifications on GOV.UK to receive updates when ETA-related pages change.
• UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI): The government department responsible for the ETA system. Follow their announcements for policy changes.

This Page

We update this news and updates page regularly with the latest ETA developments. Bookmark this page and check back before your trip to make sure you have the most current information.

Our Related Guides

We maintain a comprehensive library of UK ETA guides covering specific topics:

• UK ETA 2026: Complete guide to rules and costs
• How to apply for a UK ETA: Step-by-step guide
• UK ETA requirements 2026
• UK ETA for EU citizens
• UK ETA transit rules
• UK ETA for children and families
• UK ETA photo requirements
• UK ETA refused: What to do
• UK border control and customs
• Check your UK ETA status online
• Extending your UK ETA stay

Frequently Asked Questions About UK ETA Changes

When did the ETA price increase to £20?

The UK government raised the fee from £16 to £20 on 8 April 2026. Applying now secures the current £20 rate for two years.

Will my existing ETA still be valid after the price increase?

Yes. If you already hold a valid ETA, it remains valid until its expiry date regardless of any price changes. The new price will only apply to new applications or renewals after the increase takes effect.

Do I need a new ETA for the Crown Dependencies?

This is still being finalised. We expect clarity on this when the Crown Dependencies ETA scheme launches in April 2026. See our Crown Dependencies guide for updates.

Has the maximum stay period changed?

No. The maximum stay remains six months per visit. There are no announced plans to change this.

Are there any new countries being added to the ETA scheme?

The ETA scheme currently covers all visa-exempt nationalities. Any changes to which countries are visa-exempt would be a major policy decision. There are no current announcements about adding or removing countries from the visa-exempt list.

What should I do if my ETA is expiring soon?

You can apply for a new ETA at any time. There is no penalty for applying while your current ETA is still valid. The new ETA will replace the old one. Use our application guide for the process.

Impact of the ETA on UK Tourism and Travel Industry

The introduction of the ETA has had measurable effects on the UK tourism and travel industry. While initial concerns centred on whether the additional administrative step might deter visitors, the evidence so far suggests that the ETA has not significantly reduced inbound tourism numbers.

Travel industry stakeholders have noted several impacts:

• Advance booking trends: Travellers are now booking trips further in advance to allow time for ETA processing, which helps airlines and hotels plan capacity more effectively.
• Digital readiness: The ETA system has pushed the travel industry towards greater digitalisation, with airlines integrating ETA checks into their booking and check-in systems.
• Awareness campaigns: Tourism boards and airlines have invested in awareness campaigns to ensure travellers know about the ETA requirement, reducing last-minute problems at airports.
• Transit traffic: Some transit passengers have rerouted to avoid the UK, choosing continental European hubs instead. Our transit rules guide explains when an ETA is needed for connections.

The UK government has emphasised that the ETA is designed to enhance security without discouraging legitimate tourism. The relatively low cost (£20) and fast processing times are part of this approach.

Comparing the ETA Rollout to Other Countries

The UK’s phased rollout approach – starting with a single country (Qatar) and gradually expanding – was deliberate and has been compared to how other countries introduced similar systems. The US ESTA launched in 2009 covering all Visa Waiver Program countries simultaneously, which led to more initial confusion. Canada’s eTA in 2015 also launched for all eligible nationalities at once.

By contrast, the UK’s phased approach allowed for testing, refinement, and gradual public awareness. Each phase built on lessons learned from the previous one. This methodology is now being studied by other countries considering their own electronic travel authorisation systems.

For a detailed comparison of how the UK ETA stacks up against other systems worldwide, including the US ESTA, Canada eTA, and the upcoming EU ETIAS, see our comprehensive ETA comparison guide.

What Travellers Should Do Right Now

Based on the current state of the UK ETA system, here is our actionable advice for travellers in 2026:

1. Apply now if you plan to visit the UK: The fee rose from £16 to £20 on 8 April 2026. Locking in the lower price now saves money, as the ETA is valid for two years.
2. Check your existing ETA: If you applied during the earlier rollout phases, check the expiry date of your ETA. Use our guide on checking your ETA status.
3. Allow processing time: While most ETAs are approved in minutes, always apply at least 72 hours before your departure date. Our application guide walks you through the process.
4. Use official channels only: Apply through the official GOV.UK website or the UK ETA app. Avoid third-party websites that charge inflated fees. See our guide on avoiding ETA scam websites.
5. Bookmark this page: We update it regularly with the latest ETA developments, so you always have access to current information.

Summary

The UK ETA system has evolved rapidly since its October 2023 launch, expanding from a single-country pilot to a comprehensive pre-screening programme covering all visa-exempt nationalities. Full enforcement began in February 2026, and the fee rose from £16 to £20 on 8 April 2026. The Crown Dependencies are expected to join the scheme in April 2026.

Stay informed by bookmarking this page, following the official GOV.UK ETA page, and checking our comprehensive guide library before you travel. The UK ETA system will continue to develop, and we will keep you updated with every significant change.

The post UK ETA Latest News and Updates 2026 appeared first on ETA UK.

UK ETA Price History and Current Fee

The UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) has undergone several price changes since its introduction, most recently on 8 April 2026. Understanding the fee history and the current price helps travellers plan their budgets.

The UK ETA costs £20 per person. This fee applies to all applicants regardless of age, nationality, or purpose of visit — every traveller, including babies and children, needs their own ETA and pays the full fee. The increase from £16 to £20 took effect on 8 April 2026. This article covers the history of ETA pricing and what the current fee means for your trip.

ETA Fee History: From £10 to £16 to £20

The UK ETA fee has increased since the system was first introduced, reflecting the government strategy of gradually raising the price as the programme expands.

October 2023: Launch at £20

The UK ETA was first introduced in October 2023 for Qatari nationals, ahead of a broader rollout. The initial fee was set at £20 per application. This relatively low price point was designed to encourage uptake and smooth the transition to the new digital travel authorisation system. At this stage, the ETA was only required for a small number of nationalities.

April 2025: Increase to £16

In April 2025, as the ETA programme expanded to cover more nationalities including EU citizens and other non-visa nationals, the fee increased by 60 percent to £16. This increase was announced in advance by the Home Office and coincided with the broader rollout of the ETA requirement. The government stated that the fee reflected the cost of processing applications and maintaining the digital infrastructure required to run the programme.

2026: Increase to £20

The UK government raised the ETA fee to £20 on 8 April 2026. That is the current rate, and no further increase has been announced. The government has not published a detailed timeline, and travellers should monitor official announcements for updates. We will update this article as soon as a confirmed date is released.

Why Is the UK ETA Fee Increasing?

Several factors contribute to the planned fee increase, and understanding the rationale provides context for the change.

Alignment with International Equivalents

The UK ETA is comparable to similar electronic travel authorisation systems used by other countries. The US ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) costs $40 (approximately £30), while the forthcoming EU ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) will cost EUR 20 for initial applications. At £20, the UK ETA is cheaper than the US ESTA and far cheaper than a full visitor visa. For a detailed comparison, see our UK ETA rules and costs guide.

System Development and Maintenance

Running a digital travel authorisation system requires significant ongoing investment. The IT infrastructure that processes millions of applications, conducts security checks, and interfaces with border control systems across the UK needs continuous maintenance and upgrades. The fee increase helps fund these operational costs and ensures the system remains secure and efficient.

Security Screening Costs

Every ETA application undergoes automated security checks against various databases, including immigration records, criminal records, and security watchlists. As the system expands to cover more nationalities, the volume of applications and the complexity of screening increases. The fee increase partially reflects these growing security processing costs.

Full Enforcement Since February 2026

Since 25 February 2026, the UK ETA has been fully enforced for all eligible nationalities. This means the system is processing a significantly higher volume of applications than during the phased rollout period. The increased demand on the system and its supporting infrastructure is another factor behind the planned fee adjustment.

The Fee Increase Has Already Taken Effect

The £16 rate is no longer available: since 8 April 2026 every new application costs £20. An ETA issued before that date keeps its two-year validity and multiple entries, but the old price can no longer be obtained.

When Should You Apply?

If you have any plans to visit the UK within the next two years, applying now makes financial sense. Your ETA remains valid regardless of any future fee changes. Even if your travel plans are not yet finalised, having an approved ETA gives you the flexibility to book trips to the UK at short notice without worrying about application processing times.

However, there are some important considerations:

• Passport validity: Your ETA is linked to your passport. If your passport expires before the two-year ETA validity period, you will need to apply for a new ETA with your new passport, paying the fee again
• No guarantee of entry: An ETA does not guarantee entry to the UK. Border officers retain the discretion to refuse entry even with a valid ETA
• Personal circumstances: If your circumstances change (for example, a criminal conviction), your ETA could be revoked

For a complete guide on how to apply, see our step-by-step UK ETA application guide.

No Refund if Your Application Is Refused

One important aspect of the ETA fee that all applicants should understand is the no-refund policy. The fee is charged for processing your application, not for the approval of your ETA. If your application is refused, you will not receive a refund of the £20 fee.

Refusal rates for ETA applications are relatively low, as the system is designed for low-risk nationalities who would previously have entered the UK without any pre-travel authorisation. However, common reasons for refusal include:

• Previous immigration violations in the UK
• Criminal history flagged during security checks
• Incorrect or incomplete information on the application
• Issues with the passport used for the application
• Previous visa refusals or deportation from the UK

To minimise the risk of refusal, ensure all information in your application is accurate and matches your passport details exactly. Double-check names, dates of birth, passport numbers, and expiry dates before submitting. Our UK ETA requirements guide details exactly what you need for a successful application.

Payment Methods Accepted

The UK ETA application system accepts several payment methods, making it accessible to applicants worldwide.

Currently Accepted Payment Methods

• Visa debit and credit cards
• Mastercard debit and credit cards
• Apple Pay (when applying via the UK ETA app on iOS)
• Google Pay (when applying via the UK ETA app on Android)

The payment is processed in British pounds (GBP). If you are paying with a card denominated in a different currency, your bank or card provider will handle the conversion, and you may be charged a small currency conversion fee depending on your card terms.

Tips for Payment

• Use a card that does not charge foreign transaction fees if paying from outside the UK
• Ensure your card is enabled for international online transactions before applying
• Some banks may flag the transaction as unusual, so consider notifying your bank in advance
• Keep a record of your payment confirmation, as you may need it if there are any issues with your application

What Does the ETA Fee Include?

Understanding what your £20 (up from £16 on 8 April 2026) covers helps put the cost in perspective.

Included in the Fee

• Two-year validity: Your ETA is valid for two years from the date of approval, or until your passport expires (whichever comes first)
• Multiple entries: You can enter and leave the UK as many times as you wish during the validity period
• Up to six months per visit: Each entry allows you to stay for up to six months
• Coverage of the entire UK: Your ETA covers England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland
• Tourism, business visits, and transit: The ETA permits a range of activities including tourism, visiting family, attending business meetings, and transiting through the UK

Not Included

• The right to work in the UK
• The right to study for more than six months
• Access to public healthcare or benefits
• A guarantee of entry (this remains at the discretion of border officers)

ETA Fee Compared to Other Travel Costs

While any price increase is unwelcome, the ETA fee remains a relatively small part of the overall cost of visiting the UK.

To put the £20 fee in context, consider typical UK travel costs: a single Tube journey in central London costs over £2, a pint of beer in a London pub averages £6 to £7, a basic hotel room in London rarely costs less than £80 per night, and a meal in a mid-range restaurant typically runs £20 to £40 per person. Against these expenses, the ETA fee for two years of travel access to the UK represents excellent value.

The ETA also compares favourably to the cost of traditional visa applications, which can cost £135 or more for a standard visitor visa and involve a much more complex application process, including potential in-person appointments at visa application centres.

EU Citizens and the Fee Increase

EU citizens have been required to hold a UK ETA since the system was expanded in 2025. The fee increase from £16 to £20 applies equally to EU and non-EU applicants. For EU citizens who were previously able to enter the UK without any pre-travel authorisation, the ETA represents a new cost of visiting Britain post-Brexit.

If you are an EU citizen planning multiple trips to the UK, a single £20 ETA secures two years of travel access. Our UK ETA guide for EU citizens provides specific information for European travellers.

What the Fee Increase Changed

The increase applied to all new applications submitted on or after 8 April 2026. Here is what we expect based on how previous price changes were handled:

• Existing ETAs remain valid: If you already have an approved ETA, the fee increase does not affect you. Your ETA continues to be valid until its expiry date, regardless of any price changes
• New applications pay the new fee: Applications submitted on or after the effective date will be charged £20
• Renewal applications: When your current ETA expires and you apply for a new one, you will pay whatever the current fee is at that time
• No transition period: Previous fee increases took effect immediately on the announced date, with no grace period

How to Stay Updated

Since the exact date of the fee increase has not been confirmed, staying informed is important if you want to apply before the price rises. Here are reliable sources for updates:

• Official UK government website: The official ETA guidance page will be updated when a date is announced
• Home Office announcements: Major policy changes are typically announced through official Home Office press releases
• Our website: We monitor all ETA developments and will update this article as soon as a date is confirmed. Bookmark our UK ETA rules and costs page for the latest information

Frequently Asked Questions About the Fee Increase

When exactly did the UK ETA increase to £20?

The fee rose from £16 to £20 on 8 April 2026. Every application submitted on or after that date costs £20.

Can I still get the old £16 price?

No. The £16 rate ended on 8 April 2026 and every new application now costs £20. An ETA that was already issued stays valid for two years regardless of later fee changes.

Will my existing ETA be affected by the price increase?

No. Existing ETAs remain valid until their expiry date, regardless of any fee changes. You will only pay the new fee when you apply for a fresh ETA.

Is the fee per person or per family?

The fee is per person. Every traveller, including children, needs their own ETA and must pay the full fee individually.

Can I get a refund if my ETA is refused?

No. The fee covers the cost of processing your application. It is not refundable if your application is unsuccessful.

What payment methods are accepted?

Visa and Mastercard (debit and credit), Apple Pay, and Google Pay are accepted. Payment is processed in British pounds.

Will there be further increases after £20?

The UK government has not announced any plans for increases beyond £20. However, the fee has risen twice already since the ETA was launched in 2023, so future adjustments remain possible as the system evolves.

Key Takeaways

• The UK ETA currently costs £20 per person, following the increase on 8 April 2026
• The increase took effect on 8 April 2026
• The fee history: £10 (October 2023) to £16 (9 April 2025) to £20 (8 April 2026)
• A new ETA now costs £20 and is valid for two years
• The fee is non-refundable even if the application is refused
• Payment is accepted via Visa, Mastercard, Apple Pay, and Google Pay
• Existing ETAs are not affected by fee changes
• Apply via the official UK government website

The UK ETA fee rose from £16 to £20 on 8 April 2026. If you have any plans to visit the United Kingdom within the next two years, applying sooner rather than later makes practical and financial sense. For comprehensive information about the UK ETA system, visit our complete UK ETA requirements guide.

The post UK ETA Fee Increase 2026: What We Know So Far appeared first on ETA UK.

New ETA Fee Breakdown: From £16 to £20

As a result of the UK Government’s annual review of immigration fees, the ETA now costs £20 per application. This represents a 25% increase from the previous fee of £16 that had been in place since 9 April 2025. Consequently, every individual traveller aged 18 and over must pay this fee, regardless of nationality or purpose of visit. Indeed, this fee applies equally to tourists, business visitors, and those transiting through the UK.

The fee must be paid at the time of application submission. Therefore, you should ensure your payment method is ready before starting the online process. In addition, the fee is non-refundable if your application is approved — a point many travellers overlook. However, if your ETA is refused, you may be eligible for a partial refund under certain circumstances. For a complete guide on the application process, check our step-by-step walkthrough.

Why the UK ETA Price Increased in April 2026

The Home Office announced the ETA fee increase as part of its broader immigration fee adjustments published in the Immigration and Nationality (Fees) Order 2026. Furthermore, the government cited rising administrative costs and the need to fund enhanced border security technology as primary reasons for the price change. Moreover, the UK’s digital border programme requires ongoing investment in biometric processing and automated risk assessment systems.

According to the gov.uk visa fees page, all immigration and nationality application fees are reviewed annually. As a result, travellers should expect potential future adjustments. However, the UK Government has stated that the ETA remains cheaper than several equivalent systems in other countries. For example, the US ESTA costs $40 (approximately £30), while the upcoming EU ETIAS will cost €20 (approximately £17). For a detailed comparison, see our ETA vs other travel authorisations guide.

Old vs New ETA Fee Comparison

Understanding the exact changes helps you budget accurately for your UK trip. Therefore, we have compiled a comprehensive comparison of the old and new fee structures. In addition, this table includes related costs that travellers should consider when planning their journey to the United Kingdom.

As you can see, the ETA fee increase applies uniformly across all applicant categories. Consequently, families travelling together will notice a more significant impact on their overall travel budget. Furthermore, a family of four now pays £80 instead of £64 — an additional £20 that could otherwise cover a London transport day pass.

Payment Methods Accepted for the UK ETA

The Home Office accepts several payment methods when applying for your ETA. Moreover, having your preferred payment ready before starting the application can save time and prevent errors. Indeed, payment issues are one of the most common reasons for incomplete applications.

Currently accepted payment methods include Visa debit and credit cards, Mastercard debit and credit cards, American Express cards, Apple Pay (via the UK ETA app), and Google Pay (via the UK ETA app). Furthermore, all payments are processed in British pounds (GBP). Therefore, if you are paying with a foreign currency card, your bank may apply conversion fees. In addition, some banks may flag international online payments as suspicious, so it is advisable to notify your bank before applying. For more on ETA payment options, see our dedicated guide.

UK ETA Refund Policy After the Fee Increase

Understanding the refund policy is particularly important following the ETA fee increase, as the financial stakes are now higher. However, the refund rules have not changed alongside the price adjustment. As a result, the following conditions continue to apply in April 2026.

If your ETA application is approved, no refund is available — even if you decide not to travel. Consequently, you should only apply when your travel plans are confirmed. However, if your ETA is refused, you may request a refund of the application fee, though this process can take 6-8 weeks. Furthermore, if you made a duplicate application by mistake, the Home Office may process a refund for the additional payment. Indeed, contacting the UK Visas and Immigration helpline is the fastest way to resolve payment issues. For information on what happens when applications are rejected, visit our ETA rejection reasons page.

Family Application Costs: Budgeting for Groups

The ETA fee increase has a multiplied impact on families and groups travelling together. Therefore, advance budgeting is essential for group trips to the UK. Moreover, every individual — including babies and children — needs their own ETA, which means the costs add up quickly.

For a family of four (two adults and two children), the total ETA cost is now £80 at the new rate. Furthermore, a group of six friends travelling together will pay £120 in ETA fees alone. In addition, there are no group discounts or family packages available for the UK ETA system. However, each ETA is valid for two years with multiple entries, which means you will not need to pay again for subsequent visits within that period. Indeed, this two-year validity makes the ETA surprisingly good value for frequent visitors. For families with young children, our guide to ETA for babies and children provides specific advice.

Are There Any ETA Fee Waivers or Exemptions?

Currently, the UK Government does not offer fee waivers for the ETA. As a result, all eligible travellers must pay the full £20 fee regardless of their circumstances. However, certain categories of travellers are exempt from needing an ETA altogether, which effectively means they pay nothing.

British citizens, Irish citizens, and those with valid UK visas or immigration status do not need an ETA. Furthermore, diplomats travelling on official business with accredited diplomatic passports are exempt. Moreover, travellers holding a valid UK visa (such as a work visa, student visa, or family visa) do not need a separate ETA. In addition, those with settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme are also exempt. Therefore, before paying the fee, verify whether you actually need an ETA by checking the complete list of ETA-eligible countries. Indeed, some travellers apply unnecessarily, which wastes both time and money.

Timeline of UK ETA Fee Changes

The UK ETA system is relatively new, and its fee structure has evolved since launch. Furthermore, understanding this timeline helps predict potential future changes. Moreover, keeping track of fee adjustments ensures you always apply at the correct price.

As this timeline demonstrates, the ETA fee has doubled since the system’s inception. Consequently, there is a clear upward trend that travellers should factor into their long-term travel planning. However, even at £20, the UK ETA remains competitively priced compared to traditional visa applications, which can cost hundreds of pounds. For the latest updates on fee changes, bookmark our ETA news and updates page.

How the ETA Fee Increase Impacts Your Travel Planning

While a £4 increase per person may seem modest, the cumulative effect on travel budgets should not be underestimated. Furthermore, the ETA fee increase comes alongside rising airfare costs and higher accommodation prices in the UK during 2026. As a result, careful budget planning is more important than ever for visitors.

To minimise the financial impact, consider these practical strategies. First, apply for your ETA well in advance to avoid any rush processing scenarios. Moreover, take advantage of the two-year validity period by planning multiple trips within that window. In addition, combine your UK visit with trips to nearby destinations to maximise value. Furthermore, check if your travel insurance covers ETA-related issues, as some comprehensive policies now include this. For budget-conscious travellers, our UK budget travel tips guide offers excellent money-saving advice. Indeed, with proper planning, the fee increase need not significantly impact your travel experience.

The ETA remains valid even if your passport expires, provided you apply for a new ETA linked to your new passport. Therefore, travellers whose passports are due for renewal should consider the timing carefully. Moreover, you cannot transfer an ETA between passports, so factor in the £20 re-application cost if you renew your passport within the ETA’s two-year validity window. For guidance on passport requirements, see our detailed article.

Frequently Asked Questions About the ETA Fee Increase

When did the UK ETA fee increase take effect?

The ETA fee increase from £16 to £20 took effect on 8 April 2026. All applications submitted on or after this date are charged at the new rate of £20. Applications submitted before 8 April 2026 were processed at the old rate of £16, regardless of when the decision was made.

Does the ETA fee increase apply to children as well?

Yes, the £20 fee applies to all applicants regardless of age. Every traveller, including babies and children, needs their own individual ETA at the full fee. Furthermore, there are no child discounts or reduced rates available in the current fee structure.

Can I get a refund if I applied just before the fee increase?

If you applied before 8 April 2026, you paid the old rate of £16, and no additional payment is required. Moreover, your ETA remains valid for the full two-year period at the price you paid. There is no retrospective charge for the difference between the old and new fees.

Will the ETA fee increase again in the future?

The UK Government reviews immigration fees annually, so further increases are possible. However, no specific future increase has been announced at this time. Indeed, the Home Office typically publishes fee changes at least 4-6 weeks before they take effect, giving travellers time to plan.

Is the ETA fee the same for all nationalities?

Yes, the £20 ETA fee is uniform across all eligible nationalities. There are no country-specific rates or diplomatic discounts. Furthermore, the fee is the same whether you apply via the mobile app or the online portal.

How does the UK ETA fee compare to the US ESTA?

The UK ETA at £20 is comparable to the US ESTA at $40 (approximately £30). However, the ESTA is valid for two years, just like the UK ETA. Moreover, the upcoming EU ETIAS will cost €20 (approximately £17), making it cheaper than both. For a full comparison, read our travel authorisation comparison guide.

What happens if I cannot afford the ETA fee?

Unfortunately, there are no fee waivers, payment plans, or financial assistance programmes for the UK ETA. The full £20 must be paid at the time of application. However, if you are experiencing financial hardship, some charity organisations may be able to assist with travel costs in exceptional circumstances. Furthermore, remember that the ETA is valid for two years with unlimited entries, which provides long-term value.

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