{"id":357,"date":"2026-01-01T02:46:22","date_gmt":"2026-01-01T02:46:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/?p=357"},"modified":"2026-04-16T09:08:08","modified_gmt":"2026-04-16T09:08:08","slug":"uk-eta-children-families-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/en\/uk-eta-children-families-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"ETA for children \u2013 how to avoid mistakes when applying"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" fetchpriority=\"high\" fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1800\" src=\"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/b2_357_0.jpg\" alt=\"ETA for children \u2013 how to avoid mistakes when applying - family at airport with suitcases\" class=\"wp-image-1264\" srcset=\"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/b2_357_0.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/b2_357_0-200x300.jpg 200w, https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/b2_357_0-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/b2_357_0-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/b2_357_0-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/b2_357_0-8x12.jpg 8w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n<h2>Does Every Child Need Their Own UK ETA?<\/h2>\n<p>Yes. Every person entering the United Kingdom needs an individual Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), and that includes <strong>babies, toddlers, children, and teenagers<\/strong>. There are no age exemptions. Whether your child is six weeks old or sixteen years old, they need their own approved ETA before travelling to the UK.<\/p>\n<p>Since <strong>25 February 2026<\/strong>, the UK ETA has been fully enforced for all non-visa nationals. The cost is <strong>&pound;16 per person<\/strong>, including children (an increase to &pound;20 has been announced but the date has not been confirmed). Each ETA is valid for <strong>two years<\/strong> or until the linked passport expires, allows <strong>multiple entries<\/strong>, and permits stays of up to <strong>six months<\/strong> per visit.<\/p>\n<p>This guide covers everything parents and guardians need to know about applying for ETAs for children, from photo requirements for babies to practical tips for family travel planning.<\/p>\n<p>For a general overview of the ETA system, see our <a href=\"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/en\/uk-eta-2026-rules-cost-2\/\">complete guide to the UK ETA 2026<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/b2_357_1.jpg\" alt=\"ETA for children \u2013 how to avoid mistakes when applying - children with luggage travel\" class=\"wp-image-1265\" \/><\/figure>\n\n<h2>How to Apply for a Child&#8217;s UK ETA<\/h2>\n<p>Children cannot apply for their own ETA. A <strong>parent or legal guardian<\/strong> must submit the application on their behalf. The process is largely the same as applying for an adult, with a few child-specific considerations.<\/p>\n<h3>Step 1: Ensure Your Child Has a Valid Passport<\/h3>\n<p>Every child, regardless of age, needs their own <strong>biometric passport<\/strong> to apply for an ETA. The child cannot be included on a parent&#8217;s passport for UK ETA purposes. If your child does not yet have their own passport, apply for one well before your planned trip.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Key point:<\/strong> The ETA is linked to the child&#8217;s passport number. If the child&#8217;s passport is renewed before travel, you will need a new ETA linked to the new passport.<\/p>\n<h3>Step 2: Download the UK ETA App or Visit GOV.UK<\/h3>\n<p>You can apply for your child&#8217;s ETA using the same methods as for adults:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>The <strong>UK ETA app<\/strong> (available for iOS and Android)<\/li>\n<li>The <strong>GOV.UK website<\/strong> at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/guidance\/apply-for-an-electronic-travel-authorisation-eta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">gov.uk\/eta<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>When starting the application, select the option indicating you are applying <strong>on behalf of someone else<\/strong> (or for a child, depending on the app&#8217;s interface). You will then enter your child&#8217;s passport details, not your own.<\/p>\n<h3>Step 3: Enter Your Child&#8217;s Details<\/h3>\n<p>Provide the following from your child&#8217;s passport:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Full name (exactly as it appears in the passport)<\/li>\n<li>Date of birth<\/li>\n<li>Passport number<\/li>\n<li>Passport expiry date<\/li>\n<li>Nationality<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Common mistake:<\/strong> Entering the parent&#8217;s details instead of the child&#8217;s. Double-check that you are entering the child&#8217;s passport information.<\/p>\n<h3>Step 4: Upload a Photo of Your Child<\/h3>\n<p>You need a passport-style photograph of your child. This is where things get interesting with very young children. See the section below on <strong>photo requirements for children under 6<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<h3>Step 5: Pay the Fee<\/h3>\n<p>The fee is <strong>&pound;16 per child<\/strong>. There is no discount for children, and no family rate. A family of two adults and three children will pay &pound;80 in total (5 x &pound;16). Payment is by debit or credit card.<\/p>\n<h3>Step 6: Wait for Approval<\/h3>\n<p>Most ETAs are approved within <strong>72 hours<\/strong>, but some may take longer if additional checks are needed. The approval is sent to the email address provided during the application. We recommend applying at least <strong>two weeks before travel<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>For the full step-by-step walkthrough, see our <a href=\"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/en\/uk-eta-application-guide\/\">ETA application guide<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1500\" src=\"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/b2_357_2.jpg\" alt=\"ETA for children \u2013 how to avoid mistakes when applying - family vacation destination\" class=\"wp-image-1266\" \/><\/figure>\n\n<h2>Photo Requirements for Children Under 6<\/h2>\n<p>Taking a passport-style photo of a baby or toddler can be challenging. The UK Home Office recognises this and applies <strong>relaxed photo rules<\/strong> for young children.<\/p>\n<h3>Standard Photo Rules (All Ages)<\/h3>\n<p>The general requirements for ETA photos are:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Clear, in focus, and in colour<\/li>\n<li>Taken against a plain light background (white or off-white)<\/li>\n<li>Showing the full face, looking directly at the camera<\/li>\n<li>No filters, editing, or digital enhancement<\/li>\n<li>Taken recently (within the last month is ideal)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Relaxed Rules for Children Under 6<\/h3>\n<p>For children under six years old, the following relaxations apply:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Eyes do not need to be open.<\/strong> Babies often have their eyes closed, and this is accepted.<\/li>\n<li><strong>The child does not need to look directly at the camera.<\/strong> A slight turn of the head is acceptable for very young children.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Mouth can be open.<\/strong> Getting a baby to close their mouth on cue is nearly impossible, so this is not required.<\/li>\n<li><strong>No requirement for a neutral expression.<\/strong> Babies smile, cry, and pull faces. A reasonably neutral expression is preferred but not strictly required.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>For Babies Under 1 Year Old<\/h3>\n<p>Additional relaxations apply for very young babies:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>The baby can be photographed lying down<\/strong> on a white sheet or blanket, looking up at the camera.<\/li>\n<li><strong>A parent&#8217;s hands can support the baby&#8217;s head<\/strong>, but the hands should not be visible in the final photo (or should be covered with something white).<\/li>\n<li><strong>No one else should be visible in the photo.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Practical Tips for Children&#8217;s Photos<\/h3>\n<ol>\n<li><strong>Natural light works best.<\/strong> Position the child near a window with indirect sunlight.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Use a white sheet as a background.<\/strong> Lay it on a bed or pin it to a wall behind the child.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Have someone stand behind the camera.<\/strong> For toddlers, a familiar face behind the camera can help direct their gaze.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Take many photos.<\/strong> Young children are unpredictable. Take 20 or 30 shots and choose the best one.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Avoid shadows.<\/strong> Ensure even lighting across the face with no harsh shadows.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Remove hats, headbands, and accessories.<\/strong> The child&#8217;s face and head must be clearly visible (religious head coverings excepted).<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>For detailed guidance on all photo requirements, see our <a href=\"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/en\/uk-eta-photo-requirements-guide\/\">UK ETA photo requirements guide<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h2>There Are No Group Applications<\/h2>\n<p>One of the most common misconceptions about the UK ETA is that families can submit a single group application. <strong>This is not the case.<\/strong> Every person, including every child, must have a <strong>separate, individual application<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<h3>What This Means in Practice<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>A family of four requires <strong>four separate applications<\/strong> and <strong>four separate payments<\/strong> of &pound;16 (&pound;64 total).<\/li>\n<li>Each application needs its own <strong>passport details and photograph<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<li>Each ETA is linked to <strong>one specific passport<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<li>Applications can be submitted <strong>one after another<\/strong> from the same device. You do not need a separate phone or computer for each application.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Tips for Managing Multiple Applications<\/h3>\n<ol>\n<li><strong>Set aside dedicated time.<\/strong> For a family of five, plan about 30 to 45 minutes to complete all applications. Having all passports and photos ready beforehand speeds things up considerably.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Use a spreadsheet or note.<\/strong> Track each family member&#8217;s application reference number, submission date, and approval status.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Check all confirmations.<\/strong> Make sure you receive an approval email for every family member before booking flights or accommodation.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Apply at the same time.<\/strong> Submit all family applications in one sitting so you do not forget anyone.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" loading=\"lazy\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1600\" src=\"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/b2_357_3.jpg\" alt=\"ETA for children \u2013 how to avoid mistakes when applying - happy family holiday\" class=\"wp-image-1267\" \/><\/figure>\n\n<h2>Family Travel Planning with the ETA<\/h2>\n<p>The ETA adds a step to your UK travel planning, but with a little organisation, it should not cause any stress. Here is a practical timeline for families.<\/p>\n<h3>Six to Eight Weeks Before Travel<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>Check that <strong>every family member has a valid passport<\/strong>. If any passport is expired or expiring soon, start the renewal process immediately.<\/li>\n<li>Verify that <strong>all family members&#8217; nationalities are ETA-eligible<\/strong>. If any family member needs a visa instead, this requires a longer timeline.<\/li>\n<li>Prepare <strong>passport-style photos<\/strong> for everyone, especially young children.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Three to Four Weeks Before Travel<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>Submit <strong>all ETA applications<\/strong>. Apply for every family member on the same day if possible.<\/li>\n<li>Pay the &pound;16 fee per person.<\/li>\n<li>Save all <strong>confirmation emails<\/strong> and reference numbers.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>One to Two Weeks Before Travel<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>Verify that <strong>all ETAs have been approved<\/strong>. If any are still pending, contact the Home Office.<\/li>\n<li>If any application was <strong>refused<\/strong>, take action immediately. See our <a href=\"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/en\/uk-eta-refused-help-guide\/\">guide to refused ETAs<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Travel Day<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>Carry <strong>all passports<\/strong> linked to the approved ETAs.<\/li>\n<li>Keep <strong>confirmation emails<\/strong> accessible on your phone.<\/li>\n<li>Allow <strong>extra time at the airport or border<\/strong> for document checks with multiple family members.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Costs for Families<\/h2>\n<p>Since every family member needs their own ETA at &pound;16 each, the costs add up. Here is what different family sizes can expect:<\/p>\n<table>\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th>Family Size<\/th>\n<th>Total ETA Cost<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>Couple (2 adults)<\/td>\n<td>&pound;32<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Family of 3 (2 adults + 1 child)<\/td>\n<td>&pound;48<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Family of 4 (2 adults + 2 children)<\/td>\n<td>&pound;64<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Family of 5 (2 adults + 3 children)<\/td>\n<td>&pound;80<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Family of 6 (2 adults + 4 children)<\/td>\n<td>&pound;96<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p>Remember that the ETA is valid for <strong>two years<\/strong>, so if you plan to visit the UK again within that period, you will not need to pay again (unless a passport is renewed).<\/p>\n<h2>Special Considerations for Family Travel<\/h2>\n<h3>Newborns and Infants<\/h3>\n<p>Even a newborn baby needs their own passport and ETA. If you are planning a UK trip with a very young baby, start the passport application process as early as possible after birth. Passport processing times for newborns can be lengthy, so factor this into your travel planning.<\/p>\n<h3>Unaccompanied Children<\/h3>\n<p>If your child is travelling to the UK without you (for example, visiting relatives, attending a school trip, or travelling with another family), they still need their own ETA. Additionally, airlines and immigration officers may have specific requirements for <strong>unaccompanied minors<\/strong>, including consent letters from parents. Check with your airline and review UK Border Force guidance on children travelling without parents.<\/p>\n<h3>Children with Different Surnames<\/h3>\n<p>If a child has a different surname from the travelling parent (common with blended families, different naming traditions, or if the parent has changed their name), be prepared for additional questions at the border. Carrying <strong>supporting documentation<\/strong> such as birth certificates, adoption papers, or court orders can help smooth the process.<\/p>\n<h3>Single Parents Travelling with Children<\/h3>\n<p>A single parent travelling with children may be asked about the other parent, especially if the child has a different surname. While the UK does not formally require a consent letter from the non-travelling parent, having one can avoid delays. A simple letter stating that the other parent consents to the child travelling to the UK is sufficient.<\/p>\n<h3>Guardians and Non-Parents Travelling with Children<\/h3>\n<p>If a grandparent, uncle, family friend, or other non-parent adult is travelling with a child, they should carry documentation proving they have authority to travel with the child. This is particularly important for international travel and immigration purposes.<\/p>\n<h2>What Happens at the UK Border with Children<\/h2>\n<p>Arriving at the UK border with children follows the same process as for adults, but there are a few family-specific considerations.<\/p>\n<h3>E-Gates<\/h3>\n<p>UK electronic passport gates (e-gates) are generally available to travellers aged <strong>12 and over<\/strong> who hold biometric passports. Children under 12 typically need to go through the <strong>manual immigration desk<\/strong>. This means families with young children should expect to queue at the staffed desks rather than using the faster e-gate lanes.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Tip:<\/strong> If one parent has only older children (12+) and the other has a younger child, consider splitting up. The parent with older children uses the e-gates while the other goes through the manual desk. Meet up after immigration.<\/p>\n<h3>Questions Border Officers May Ask<\/h3>\n<p>When travelling with children, border officers may ask:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Your relationship to the children<\/li>\n<li>Where you are staying in the UK<\/li>\n<li>How long you plan to stay<\/li>\n<li>Whether both parents consent to the travel (especially for single parents)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Answer honestly and briefly. Having your hotel booking, return tickets, and any relevant documentation readily available helps.<\/p>\n<p>For a complete guide to the border experience, see our <a href=\"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/en\/uk-border-control-customs-rules\/\">border control and customs guide<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h2>Practical Scenarios for Family ETA Applications<\/h2>\n<h3>Scenario 1: European Family Holiday to London<\/h3>\n<p>A German family of four (two parents, children aged 8 and 11) plans a week-long holiday in London. All four are German citizens. They need four individual ETAs at &pound;16 each (&pound;64 total). The mother applies for all four on the UK ETA app on the same afternoon, entering each person&#8217;s passport details and uploading individual photos. All four are approved within 48 hours.<\/p>\n<h3>Scenario 2: Grandparents Travelling with Grandchildren<\/h3>\n<p>Australian grandparents are taking their three grandchildren (ages 4, 7, and 10) to the UK for a summer holiday. The parents are not coming. The grandparents need five ETAs in total. They also carry a signed consent letter from the children&#8217;s parents authorising the trip, plus copies of the children&#8217;s birth certificates to prove the family relationship.<\/p>\n<h3>Scenario 3: Mixed-Nationality Family<\/h3>\n<p>A Swedish mother and an American father have two children who hold both citizenships. The family visits the UK for Easter. The mother applies for her own ETA using her Swedish passport. The father applies using his American passport. For the children, they choose to use the children&#8217;s American passports (which have longer validity). Four applications, four approvals, &pound;64 total.<\/p>\n<h3>Scenario 4: New Baby, Last-Minute Trip<\/h3>\n<p>A Canadian couple with a three-month-old baby receives a last-minute invitation to visit family in the UK. They already have their own ETAs from a previous trip. They need a passport for the baby (which can take several weeks) and then an ETA for the baby (&pound;16). The baby&#8217;s passport arrives two weeks before travel, and the ETA is approved within 72 hours.<\/p>\n<h3>Scenario 5: School Trip<\/h3>\n<p>A French school organises a five-day trip to London for 30 students aged 14 to 16. Every student needs their own individual ETA. The school coordinator asks parents to apply for their children&#8217;s ETAs at home, providing clear instructions and a deadline of four weeks before the trip. Each parent pays &pound;16 for their child&#8217;s ETA. The school collects confirmation of approval before finalising the trip roster.<\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" loading=\"lazy\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/fix5_357_4.jpg\" alt=\"ETA for children \u2013 how to avoid mistakes when applying - family photo happy together\" class=\"wp-image-1443\" srcset=\"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/fix5_357_4.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/fix5_357_4-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/fix5_357_4-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/fix5_357_4-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/fix5_357_4-18x12.jpg 18w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n<h2>Common Mistakes Parents Make<\/h2>\n<ol>\n<li><strong>Forgetting to apply for the baby.<\/strong> It is easy to overlook the youngest family member. Every person needs an ETA, including infants.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Using the parent&#8217;s passport details.<\/strong> When applying on behalf of a child, enter the child&#8217;s passport information, not your own.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Applying too late.<\/strong> With multiple applications to manage, start early. Do not leave it to the week before travel.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Not checking all approvals.<\/strong> One family member&#8217;s delayed or refused ETA can disrupt the entire trip. Verify every approval.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Forgetting about passport renewals.<\/strong> If a child&#8217;s passport is renewed after the ETA is granted, the old ETA is no longer valid. Apply for a new ETA linked to the new passport.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Assuming there is a family rate.<\/strong> There is no discount. Every ETA costs &pound;16 regardless of age.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Not bringing supporting documents.<\/strong> Birth certificates, consent letters, and custody documents can be crucial for smooth border crossings with children.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h2>Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n<h3>At what age does a child need their own ETA?<\/h3>\n<p>From birth. There is no minimum age. A one-day-old baby entering the UK needs their own passport and ETA.<\/p>\n<h3>Can I include my child on my ETA application?<\/h3>\n<p>No. Each ETA is individual. You must submit a separate application for each child.<\/p>\n<h3>What if my child&#8217;s ETA is refused?<\/h3>\n<p>ETA refusals for children are rare but possible. If refused, check the reason provided and consider reapplying with corrected information. See our <a href=\"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/en\/uk-eta-refused-help-guide\/\">refused ETA guide<\/a> for next steps.<\/p>\n<h3>Do children on school trips need individual ETAs?<\/h3>\n<p>Yes. There is no group ETA or school trip exemption. Every student needs their own ETA, applied for by their parent or guardian.<\/p>\n<h3>Can a grandparent or other relative apply for a child&#8217;s ETA?<\/h3>\n<p>The application should be submitted by the child&#8217;s parent or legal guardian. If a grandparent or other relative is travelling with the child and has the child&#8217;s passport and photo, they may be able to submit the application, but the responsibility lies with the parent\/guardian.<\/p>\n<h3>Does a British child with another nationality need an ETA?<\/h3>\n<p>If a child holds British citizenship, they should enter the UK on their British passport and do not need an ETA. This applies even if the child also holds another nationality.<\/p>\n<h3>My child&#8217;s passport expires in three months. Can I still get an ETA?<\/h3>\n<p>You can apply for an ETA, but it will only be valid until the passport expires. If the passport expires before your trip, you will need to renew the passport first and then apply for a new ETA. Check our <a href=\"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/en\/uk-eta-requirements-2026-guide\/\">ETA requirements guide<\/a> for passport validity rules.<\/p>\n<h2>Summary<\/h2>\n<p>Travelling to the UK with children in 2026 requires some additional planning thanks to the ETA, but the process is straightforward once you understand the rules. Every child needs their own individual ETA at &pound;16, applied for by a parent or guardian. Photos for young children follow relaxed rules, and there are no group applications available.<\/p>\n<p>The key to a smooth family trip is early preparation: check passports, apply for all ETAs at least two weeks before travel, verify all approvals, and carry supporting documents for children at the border. With everything in order, your family can enjoy everything the United Kingdom has to offer.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>United Kingdom ETA for children: complete application guide for families. Avoid common mistakes and get approval fast in 2026.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":1264,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_yoast_wpseo_focuskw":"UK ETA children families","_yoast_wpseo_title":"UK ETA for Families and Children: Complete Guide 2026","_yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Every child needs their own UK ETA in 2026, including babies. Learn how parents apply, relaxed photo rules for under-6s, costs for families, and practical travel planning tips.","footnotes":""},"categories":[101,13],"tags":[84,29,30,31,32,37,59,77],"class_list":["post-357","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-travel-scenarios","category-visa-and-eta","tag-customs-regulations","tag-entry-to-the-united-kingdom","tag-eta-application","tag-eta-fees","tag-eta-status","tag-family-travel-uk","tag-passport-photo-requirements","tag-uk-eta"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.6 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>UK ETA for Families and Children: Complete Guide 2026<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Every child needs their own UK ETA in 2026, including babies. Learn how parents apply, relaxed photo rules for under-6s, costs for families, and practical travel planning tips.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/en\/uk-eta-children-families-guide\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"UK ETA for Families and Children: Complete Guide 2026\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Every child needs their own UK ETA in 2026, including babies. Learn how parents apply, relaxed photo rules for under-6s, costs for families, and practical travel planning tips.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/en\/uk-eta-children-families-guide\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"ETA UK\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2026-01-01T02:46:22+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-04-16T09:08:08+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/b2_357_0.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1200\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"1800\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"James Crawford\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"James Crawford\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"14 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/etavisauk.org\\\/uk-eta-children-families-guide\\\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/etavisauk.org\\\/uk-eta-children-families-guide\\\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"James Crawford\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/etavisauk.org\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/270ad6539a31e6e56947d06538bfdef0\"},\"headline\":\"ETA for children \u2013 how to avoid mistakes when applying\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-01-01T02:46:22+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-04-16T09:08:08+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/etavisauk.org\\\/uk-eta-children-families-guide\\\/\"},\"wordCount\":2752,\"commentCount\":0,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/etavisauk.org\\\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/etavisauk.org\\\/uk-eta-children-families-guide\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/etavisauk.org\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2026\\\/03\\\/b2_357_0.jpg\",\"keywords\":[\"customs regulations\",\"entry to the united kingdom\",\"eta application\",\"eta fees\",\"eta status\",\"family travel uk\",\"passport photo requirements\",\"uk eta\"],\"articleSection\":[\"Travel Scenarios\",\"visa and eta\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"CommentAction\",\"name\":\"Comment\",\"target\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/etavisauk.org\\\/uk-eta-children-families-guide\\\/#respond\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/etavisauk.org\\\/uk-eta-children-families-guide\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/etavisauk.org\\\/uk-eta-children-families-guide\\\/\",\"name\":\"UK ETA for Families and Children: Complete Guide 2026\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/etavisauk.org\\\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/etavisauk.org\\\/uk-eta-children-families-guide\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/etavisauk.org\\\/uk-eta-children-families-guide\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/etavisauk.org\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2026\\\/03\\\/b2_357_0.jpg\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-01-01T02:46:22+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-04-16T09:08:08+00:00\",\"description\":\"Every child needs their own UK ETA in 2026, including babies. Learn how parents apply, relaxed photo rules for under-6s, costs for families, and practical travel planning tips.\",\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/etavisauk.org\\\/uk-eta-children-families-guide\\\/#breadcrumb\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/etavisauk.org\\\/uk-eta-children-families-guide\\\/\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/etavisauk.org\\\/uk-eta-children-families-guide\\\/#primaryimage\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/etavisauk.org\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2026\\\/03\\\/b2_357_0.jpg\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/etavisauk.org\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2026\\\/03\\\/b2_357_0.jpg\",\"width\":1200,\"height\":1800,\"caption\":\"ETA for children \u2013 how to avoid mistakes when applying - family at airport with suitcases\"},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/etavisauk.org\\\/uk-eta-children-families-guide\\\/#breadcrumb\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Home\",\"item\":\"https:\\\/\\\/etavisauk.org\\\/en\\\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"ETA for children \u2013 how to avoid mistakes when applying\"}]},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/etavisauk.org\\\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/etavisauk.org\\\/\",\"name\":\"ETA UK\",\"description\":\"\",\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/etavisauk.org\\\/#organization\"},\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https:\\\/\\\/etavisauk.org\\\/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":{\"@type\":\"PropertyValueSpecification\",\"valueRequired\":true,\"valueName\":\"search_term_string\"}}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/etavisauk.org\\\/#organization\",\"name\":\"ETA UK\",\"alternateName\":\"ETA Visa UK\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/etavisauk.org\\\/\",\"logo\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/etavisauk.org\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/logo\\\/image\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/etavisauk.org\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2026\\\/03\\\/eta-uk-logo-696.png\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/etavisauk.org\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2026\\\/03\\\/eta-uk-logo-696.png\",\"width\":696,\"height\":696,\"caption\":\"ETA UK\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/etavisauk.org\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/logo\\\/image\\\/\"}},{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/etavisauk.org\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/270ad6539a31e6e56947d06538bfdef0\",\"name\":\"James Crawford\",\"image\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/etavisauk.org\\\/wp-content\\\/litespeed\\\/avatar\\\/08f51d033825f5e9f2bfc41aeb266ed2.jpg?ver=1779343969\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/etavisauk.org\\\/wp-content\\\/litespeed\\\/avatar\\\/08f51d033825f5e9f2bfc41aeb266ed2.jpg?ver=1779343969\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/etavisauk.org\\\/wp-content\\\/litespeed\\\/avatar\\\/08f51d033825f5e9f2bfc41aeb266ed2.jpg?ver=1779343969\",\"caption\":\"James Crawford\"},\"description\":\"James Crawford is the lead content editor at ETA UK, specialising in UK immigration policy and travel authorisation systems. With extensive experience covering the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme, James provides accurate, up-to-date guides to help international travellers navigate UK entry requirements.\",\"sameAs\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/etavisauk.org\"],\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/etavisauk.org\\\/en\\\/author\\\/lukass\\\/\"}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"UK ETA for Families and Children: Complete Guide 2026","description":"Every child needs their own UK ETA in 2026, including babies. Learn how parents apply, relaxed photo rules for under-6s, costs for families, and practical travel planning tips.","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/en\/uk-eta-children-families-guide\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"UK ETA for Families and Children: Complete Guide 2026","og_description":"Every child needs their own UK ETA in 2026, including babies. Learn how parents apply, relaxed photo rules for under-6s, costs for families, and practical travel planning tips.","og_url":"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/en\/uk-eta-children-families-guide\/","og_site_name":"ETA UK","article_published_time":"2026-01-01T02:46:22+00:00","article_modified_time":"2026-04-16T09:08:08+00:00","og_image":[{"width":1200,"height":1800,"url":"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/b2_357_0.jpg","type":"image\/jpeg"}],"author":"James Crawford","twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"James Crawford","Est. reading time":"14 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Article","@id":"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/uk-eta-children-families-guide\/#article","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/uk-eta-children-families-guide\/"},"author":{"name":"James Crawford","@id":"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/#\/schema\/person\/270ad6539a31e6e56947d06538bfdef0"},"headline":"ETA for children \u2013 how to avoid mistakes when applying","datePublished":"2026-01-01T02:46:22+00:00","dateModified":"2026-04-16T09:08:08+00:00","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/uk-eta-children-families-guide\/"},"wordCount":2752,"commentCount":0,"publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/#organization"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/uk-eta-children-families-guide\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/b2_357_0.jpg","keywords":["customs regulations","entry to the united kingdom","eta application","eta fees","eta status","family travel uk","passport photo requirements","uk eta"],"articleSection":["Travel Scenarios","visa and eta"],"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"CommentAction","name":"Comment","target":["https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/uk-eta-children-families-guide\/#respond"]}]},{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/uk-eta-children-families-guide\/","url":"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/uk-eta-children-families-guide\/","name":"UK ETA for Families and Children: Complete Guide 2026","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/uk-eta-children-families-guide\/#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/uk-eta-children-families-guide\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/b2_357_0.jpg","datePublished":"2026-01-01T02:46:22+00:00","dateModified":"2026-04-16T09:08:08+00:00","description":"Every child needs their own UK ETA in 2026, including babies. Learn how parents apply, relaxed photo rules for under-6s, costs for families, and practical travel planning tips.","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/uk-eta-children-families-guide\/#breadcrumb"},"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/uk-eta-children-families-guide\/"]}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/uk-eta-children-families-guide\/#primaryimage","url":"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/b2_357_0.jpg","contentUrl":"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/b2_357_0.jpg","width":1200,"height":1800,"caption":"ETA for children \u2013 how to avoid mistakes when applying - family at airport with suitcases"},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/uk-eta-children-families-guide\/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/en\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"ETA for children \u2013 how to avoid mistakes when applying"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/#website","url":"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/","name":"ETA UK","description":"","publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/#organization"},"potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":{"@type":"PropertyValueSpecification","valueRequired":true,"valueName":"search_term_string"}}],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/#organization","name":"ETA UK","alternateName":"ETA Visa UK","url":"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/","url":"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/eta-uk-logo-696.png","contentUrl":"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/eta-uk-logo-696.png","width":696,"height":696,"caption":"ETA UK"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/"}},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/#\/schema\/person\/270ad6539a31e6e56947d06538bfdef0","name":"James Crawford","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/wp-content\/litespeed\/avatar\/08f51d033825f5e9f2bfc41aeb266ed2.jpg?ver=1779343969","url":"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/wp-content\/litespeed\/avatar\/08f51d033825f5e9f2bfc41aeb266ed2.jpg?ver=1779343969","contentUrl":"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/wp-content\/litespeed\/avatar\/08f51d033825f5e9f2bfc41aeb266ed2.jpg?ver=1779343969","caption":"James Crawford"},"description":"James Crawford is the lead content editor at ETA UK, specialising in UK immigration policy and travel authorisation systems. With extensive experience covering the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme, James provides accurate, up-to-date guides to help international travellers navigate UK entry requirements.","sameAs":["https:\/\/etavisauk.org"],"url":"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/en\/author\/lukass\/"}]}},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/357","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=357"}],"version-history":[{"count":8,"href":"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/357\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1798,"href":"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/357\/revisions\/1798"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1264"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=357"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=357"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/etavisauk.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=357"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}