With sufficient preparation, applying for a UK ETA is a fairly straightforward process. Generally, processing delays are due to simple errors. Correspondingly, using the wrong photo and submitting application answers are some of the most common mistakes.
Overall, the rule is simple: use clear photos and provide accurate answers to help promote faster approvals.
In this guide, we take you through the photo requirements and common application questions for the UK ETA. As such, use this article to check before you submit your application.
Photo Preparations
Every UK ETA application requires two images: a photo of your passport and a photo of your face.
Notably, the passport photo confirms your identity and serves as a travel document. Correspondingly, the face photo verifies that the applicant matches the passport holder.
Naturally, you must use the same passport for travel and the application. This is because the system links your ETA digitally to that passport.
Usually, the application asks you to take these photos during the process. You can either upload them or take them using your phone camera.
All in all, think of the photo step as identity verification. If the image fails the validation step, then the application may require resubmission.
ETA Photo Requirements
Overall, the UK ETA uses digital photo rules similar to passport standards. Essentially, the goal is clear identification under consistent conditions.
Background and Lighting Rules
Your photo must have a plain, light-colored background. To clarify, patterns or objects behind you are not allowed.
Moreover, lighting must remain even across your face. In particular, shadows behind or across your face can cause rejection.
All in all, natural lighting works best. So, avoid strong overhead lights or backlighting.
Face Position and Expression
Firstly, face the camera directly and keep your expression neutral.
Next, your eyes must stay open and visible. Meanwhile, your mouth should remain closed. Do not wear sunglasses or filters, as the photo must show your full face clearly. In addition, remove any head coverings, unless these are required for medical or religious reasons.
Overall, the system compares your photo to passport data. Hence, accuracy matters more than appearance.
Technical Specifications
Generally, most accepted photos follow standard digital passport dimensions. Typical specifications include:
- Around 600 x 750 pixels minimum
- JPEG or JPG format
- Clear, sharp image without blur
- No borders or cropping
Generally, these specifications ensure the system can read facial features correctly.
If your phone camera produces a clear image, then you are usually fine.
Common ETA Photo Mistakes
Usually, any applicants fail at the photo stage because they rush.
Specifically, the most common mistakes include:
- Blurry or low-resolution photos
- Shadows across the face
- Busy or dark backgrounds
- Filters or edited images
- Cropped passport photos
- Old photos that no longer match your appearance
Overall, photo errors often trigger manual review. As such, this adds time to processing.
Correspondingly, the UK photo rules warn that incorrect images can cause application problems.
If your face is not instantly recognizable, then retake the photo.
ETA Application Questions
To summarize, the UK ETA application includes identity and suitability questions. Correspondingly, these help authorities assess eligibility before travel.
As such, applicants must provide passport details, contact information, and answer suitability questions.
Personal Information
In particular, you will enter basic details such as:
- Full legal name
- Date of birth
- Nationality
- Home Address
- Contact details
- Employment information
- Citizenship
Notably, these details must match your passport exactly.
Passport Details
You must provide:
- Passport number
- Issue date
- Expiry date
- Issuing country
Even small errors can cause delays. Hence, always double-check numbers.
Travel and Visit Information
Some applications ask about your travel purpose. Specifically, this may include tourism, business, or visiting family.
Hence, you usually do not need detailed travel plans.
Security and Suitability Questions
In contrast, these questions focus on safety and immigration history. In particular, they may include:
- Criminal convictions
- Previous immigration issues
- Other nationalities held
Notably, the ETA system checks this information against security databases before approval.
How to Apply
In summary, the UK ETA application is simple and entirely online. Correspondingly, here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Visit the EVS platform. Notably, it simplifies the ETA application process so you can avoid going through complex visa processes.
At EVS, your personal and travel information remains safe and secure with its strict data protection regulations. Moreover, it provides you with expert guidance and seamless support to ensure a stress-free application journey.
Step 2: Upload a passport photo. It must have a plain, light-colored background without any shadows or objects behind you.
Step 3: Upload a scan or photo of your passport information page. Ensure the full passport photo page is inside the frame, including the two lines of numbers and letters at the bottom. Additionally, the passport must be valid for at least six months upon entering and exiting the UK.
Step 4: Provide your personal information:
- Contact details
- Home address
- Employment information
- Citizenship information
- Criminal history, if any
Overall, make sure that the information you provide matches what is on your passport.
Step 5: Review and confirm the information on your application. In particular, you can pay using suitable electronic payment methods such as Apple Pay, Google Pay, a credit card, or a debit card.
Step 6: Pay the application fee.
Step 7: Receive your UK ETA. Next, you will receive an email with the decision. The authorization will be linked to your passport digitally.
Once approved, the ETA is valid for multiple visits over a two-year period, or until your passport expires. Because mistakes can delay approval, make sure to triple-check all entries before you submit.
Apply early. Do not wait until the week before your trip. Early applications reduce stress and allow time for corrections if needed. If you renew your passport before travel, reapply for a new ETA.
Ready to get started with your application? Then click the button below to obtain your ETA.
Answering ETA Questions
To summarize, accuracy matters more than speed.
As such, always match your answers to passport information, as spelling differences can trigger verification checks.
In addition, answer questions honestly, because incorrect information can lead to refusal or future travel issues.
Most ETA applications succeed when information is consistent. So, avoid guessing dates or details. If unsure, then check your documents first.
Overall, review your application slowly before submitting. Notably, one-minute review prevents days of delay.
Final Checklist
Before you click submit, confirm the following:
- Your passport photo is clear and uncropped.
- Your face photo meets digital photo rules.
- Your details match your passport exactly.
- All questions are answered honestly.
- You used the same passport you will travel with.
All in all, the ETA process is digital and automated. Therefore, small mistakes stand out quickly.
Correspondingly, preparation turns a stressful process into a simple one.
Overall, for fast and reliable ETA processing, visit the EVS platform.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a professional passport photo for a UK ETA?
No. Usually, a smartphone photo works if it meets digital photo rules. Moreover, the image must be clear and well-lit.
What happens if my photo is rejected?
You may need to upload a new photo or resubmit your application. Note that this can delay approval.
Do children need photos for a UK ETA?
Yes. Every traveler needs an individual ETA application, including children.
Do I need to print anything for the UK ETA?
Since the ETA digitally links to your passport once approved, then there is no need to print anything. Should you wish, you may print out a copy of the email confirmation noting the ETA application approval.
Who checks the UK ETA?
Overall, airlines are mandated to check that passengers have the necessary permission to travel to the UK. Once in the United Kingdom, immigration officers or border control officers may refuse entry to travelers without an approved ETA.
How do I show my UK ETA at the airport?
Specifically, officials will ask for your passport digitally linked to your ETA. Next, they will then ask you questions about your visit to the UK. You may need to produce additional documentation.
Which countries are eligible for the travel authorization?
In particular, business travelers from the following countries can apply for an ETA:
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Argentina
- Australia
- The Bahamas
- Bahrain
- Barbados
- Belize
- Brazil
- Brunei
- Canada
- Chile
- Costa Rica
- Grenada
- Guatemala
- Guyana
- Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (including British National Overseas)
- Israel
- Japan
- Kiribati
- Kuwait
- Macao Special Administrative Region
- Malaysia
- Maldives
- Marshall Islands
- Mauritius
- Mexico
- Federated States of Micronesia
- Nauru
- New Zealand
- Nicaragua
- Oman
- Palau
- Panama
- Papua New Guinea
- Paraguay
- Peru
- Qatar
- Samoa
- Saudi Arabia
- Seychelles
- Singapore
- Solomon Islands
- South Korea
- St. Kitts and Nevis
- St. Lucia
- St. Vincent and the Grenadines
- Taiwan
- Toga
- Tuvalu
- United Arab Emirates
- United States
- Uruguay
Meanwhile, applications have opened for European travelers visiting the UK on or after April 2, 2025:
- Andorra
- Austria
- Belgium
- Bulgaria
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Czechia
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Monaco
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania
- San Marino
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Vatican City
In addition, this also covers eligible dual citizens.
