30 Best Things to Do Alone in London: Your Guide on How to Solo Travel London
Are you planning to travel solo to London? I've got everything you need to know about being alone in London, including tips and the best things to do solo.
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Traveling to the UK is something I always look forward to.
Between the amazing arts scenes in London and Edinburgh, to stunning countryside retreats like the Cotswolds and the Highlands, you really can’t go wrong heading to the UK.
But this year, the rules for entry have changed for lots of countries that used to enter without pre-approval.
So before packing your bags to head to the UK, don’t forget to apply for an ETA.
Many travelers may require an ETA, while others could be eligible for visa-free entry or need to get an electronic travel authorization.
Just keep in mind if you need one depends on your nationality and the purpose of your visit.
Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about filing for an ETA for visiting the UK.
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An ETA, which stands for Electronic Travel Authorization, is a digital document required for entry into the United Kingdom.
It pre-clears visitors for entry into the country and is valid for 2 years.
But it should be noted, that while it doesn’t guarantee entry—border officials make the final call—it’s an essential step to ensure you’re eligible to travel to the UK.
The UK Electronic Travel Authorization is not a visa, but acts like a screening tool for individuals from visa-exempt countries.
It’s different from a visa because it’s used for short trips by those not required to obtain a full visa.
You can apply for it using the UK Government’s official website or their official app.
The system electronically links it to your passport. It’s important to note that if you need to replace your passport at any point during the 2-year period of validity, you must also re-apply for the ETA with your new passport number.
The UK ETA allows certain travelers to visit the UK for up to 6 months. Your ability to apply depends on your nationality and additional specific criteria.
Your eligibility for a UK Electronic Travel Authorization hinges on the country that issued your passport.
As of now, the following countries are included:
Double check the current list here, and note if your passport is from these countries, you are required to get an ETA before your trip.
Apart from your nationality, there are special categories that might affect your eligibility:
Check the full list of exemptions to confirm your status before applying.
Before you can enter the UK, you need to make sure your documentation is in order.
Check you have a valid passport, and depending on your country of origin, if needed, an electronic travel authorization (ETA).
Remember, this applies to both tourists and those transiting through on a layover.
Upon arrival at the UK border, expect to go through a series of checks.
They will ask you about the purpose and duration of your stay.
UK border control is keen on maintaining national security, so cooperation with the officials is important.
If your paperwork has problems or if they suspect you are not following immigration rules, border control officials could deny you boarding or entry.
Your entry into the UK depends on documentation, as well as following security rules.
Expect your belongings to be scanned. They will probably also evaluate any previous criminal record.
With the UK ETA, you’re allowed to tour the country, visit family and friends, and engage in business activities like attending meetings.
Short-term studies and certain paid engagements are also allowed, provided they align with the travel requirements.
Anything outside of this will require a visa.
Your UK ETA lets you stay in the UK for up to six months for tourists or business visitors.
For those on a Creative Worker visa concession, the maximum stay is three months.
Your ETA is usually valid for multiple entries over a two-year period, allowing you to travel back and forth to the UK without the need to resubmit.
For short-term study, a standard ETA will likely suffice, but if your study period is longer or involves paid work, you must apply for the visa.
It’s best to check with the school or employer to find out more.
If you’re just transiting through the UK to another destination, it’s important to check if you need a visa or an ETA for your layover.
For example, Americans with a layover in the UK will need to make sure they’ve got a valid ETA.
Mostly, this is going to depend on your nationality and the length of your stay in the UK.
If you’re transiting through Northern Ireland, the same rules apply as in the rest of the UK.
Using the UK ETA app, which is available on iOS and Google, you’ll find features designed to make your application process smooth, including:
Plus, status updates keep you informed throughout the process.
To download the UK ETA mobile app, visit your phone’s respective app store (Apple App Store for iPhones, Google Play Store for Android devices) and search for “UK ETA.”
Once downloaded, the app guides you through the following simple steps:
Most users receive a decision quickly, usually same day. However, you should note, that it can take up to three business days to hear back.
Not into using apps, just head to the UK government’s official website to apply for your ETA.
It’s important to avoid using other sites, as they tend to overcharge tourists.
The government has set the ETA application fee at £10.
This is a mandatory cost for visitors entering the UK from countries that require an ETA.
It’s valid for multiple entries over two years, making it a one-time fee for frequent travelers during that span.
While the ETA fee remains fixed, additional expenses may arise depending on your method of payment.
These can include fees for using certain payment methods or currency conversion fees if you are paying from abroad.
Always check with your bank or payment service to understand any possible extra charges.
To check the status of your ETA, visit the official government website.
You’ll need to provide your application number, as well as your passport details.
Once you’re in, you’ll see whether your ETA is:
Always check your status before heading to the airport to ensure you are cleared for entry into the UK.
If your personal details change, it is important to update your ETA.
Remember your ETA is connected to your passport, so you’ll need to file a new ETA if you get a new passport.
This includes changes to:
For updates, go to the ETA application page. Keep your information current to avoid issues entering the UK.
Before heading to the UK, you need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA).
This form needs to be approved before your travel date.
Here’s a fast checklist to prepare:
After arriving in the UK, you’ll go through customs, just like you would enter any new country.
Here are the key points to remember:
You can apply through the official UK government website or via their official app, which is available on Google and iOS. The online form requires personal details, passport information, and your travel plans.
Yes, US citizens must have a UK ETA for short visits, like tourism or business that lasts less than 6 months.
EU citizens need an ETA for non-visa travel into the UK for tourism, business, or short study.
Travelers from countries that do not need a visa to enter the UK can apply for an ETA. This includes the US, Canada, and many European countries.
An ETA costs £10, so around $13 depending on the exchange rate at time of submission, and it is valid for two years.
You’ll need a valid passport, as well as an outline of your travel plans, and a photo.
In certain situations, you might also have to answer questions regarding your past or any criminal history.
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