The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a requirement that grants permission to travel to the UK, including Northern Ireland. The scheme has now been fully implemented by the UK government.
All travellers who do not need a visa will require an ETA to travel to Northern Ireland.
What is an ETA?
The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a requirement that grants permission to travel to the UK, including Northern Ireland. Everyone including children who enter or transit through the UK, including Northern Ireland, must apply. However, you don’t need an ETA if you’re a British or Irish citizen. The ETA is electronically linked to your passport.
Is the ETA a visa?
No, the ETA is not a visa. All other entry requirements into the UK, including Northern Ireland, will remain unchanged. Find out more information on passports and visa requirements.
There is more information and guidance on how to apply here.
As always, Tourism Ireland are here to support our media partners and if you have any queries about visiting Northern Ireland after the introduction of the ETA please contact your local Tourism Ireland representative.
Do I need an ETA?
You need an ETA if you are visiting the UK, including Northern Ireland, for up to 6 months for tourism, visiting family and friends, business or study.
Find out more about UK entry requirements.
Who doesn’t need an ETA?
You don’t need an ETA if you have:
- A British or Irish Passport
- Permission to live, work or study in the UK
- A visa to enter the UK
- A British overseas territories passport
How do I apply for an ETA?
Applying for an ETA is quick and simple.
Most applicants get an automatic decision in minutes when applying through the UK ETA app, which means spontaneous trips to the UK are still possible.
If you wish to apply online, you can apply on the UK ETA app, or online at GOV.UK.
Each traveller (including children and babies) must have their own ETA, and you can apply on behalf of others.
What do I need to apply for an ETA?
You need:
- the passport you’ll travel with – not a photocopy or digital passport. EU ID cards are not accepted
- access to your emails
- a credit card, debit card, Apple Pay or Google Pay
- photos of the passport and of the face of the person applying
You do not need to enter your travel details.
How much will an ETA cost?
An ETA will cost £16 per person. You cannot get a refund after you apply.
How will I receive my ETA?
You’ll get an email confirmation if your application has been approved and your ETA will be linked electronically to the passport you applied with. You must use the same passport to travel.
When will my ETA expire?
Your ETA will be valid for two years or until your passport expires – whichever is sooner. Within that time, it will allow multiple journeys to the UK, including Northern Ireland.