Know Before You Go
Overall, Emirates passengers now need more than just a passport to enter the UK. Now, visa-exempt travelers also need to obtain a UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation). In a June 2025 update, the UK has already issued 5.4 million ETAs.
Specifically, the ETA supports the UK’s digital border control system. Hence, it impacts visitors with visa-free travel benefits to the UK, such as the UAE.
If you’re traveling to the UK via Emirates, then you’ll need this electronic authorization. Correspondingly, in this guide, we’ve got you covered for how to apply stress-free.
What Is the UK ETA?
The UK ETA is an electronic travel permit that shares a link to your passport. To clarify, it is not a visa. Specifically, it allows short stays—up to 6 months—for tourism or business.
In addition, this system mirrors the U.S. ESTA and Canada’s eTA. Correspondingly, the ETA is part of the UK government’s push for smarter, digital borders.
- Validity: Two years (or until your passport expires)
- Entries allowed: Multiple
If you’re from the UAE, Bahrain, or other Gulf countries, then you must apply before traveling to the UK.
“ETAs are being introduced as part of our transformation and digitisation of the UK border,” said the UK Home Office in a blog post. “They will enable a more efficient customer experience and cement the UK as a world leader in border security.”
UK ETA on Emirates
Flying Emirates from Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or other GCC hubs? Then check your passport—if you’re from a Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) country, then you’re on the list.
Overall, the UK ETA is mandatory for citizens of:
- United Arab Emirates
- Saudi Arabia
- Qatar
- Kuwait
- Bahrain
- Oman
For context, this rollout started in 2023 and continues to expand.
Meanwhile, you don’t need an ETA if you hold:
- A UK or Irish passport
- A UK visa or residence permit
- A British Overseas Territories passport
Overall, always check current eligibility on the UK government’s official ETA website.
How to Apply for a UK ETA
In summary, the ETA application is simple and entirely online. 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 of the minor 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, credit card, or debit card.
Step 6: Pay the application fee.
Step 7: Receive your UK ETA. Next, you will receive an email with the decision. Next, 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.
Ready to get started with your application? Then click the button below to obtain your ETA.
ETA Tips for Emirates Flyers
- Apply early: Give yourself at least 7 days before your flight.
- Match passport details exactly with your Emirates booking.
- Check your inbox for confirmation—no ETA means no boarding.
- Monitor expiry dates: Your ETA expires with your passport.
What If You Hit a Snag?
It’s true, delays and rejections can happen. Hence, here’s how to get help.
Common Issues:
- Incomplete forms
- Name mismatch
- Expired passport
- System glitches
Where to Get Support:
- UKVI contact page (UK Visas and Immigration)
- Emirates Customer Service
As a general rule, avoid applying twice before knowing the reason for rejection. Moreover, always check the official rejection email.
What Happens at the UK Border?
Once approved, the ETA is linked electronically. Hence ,you don’t need to show anything unless asked.
At UK immigration:
- Use the same passport as your ETA.
- Border staff may ask brief questions.
- Expect faster processing for ETA holders.
In addition, your Emirates boarding staff may also check your ETA status at check-in.
Planning a Smooth Trip
- Check ETA validity before every new trip.
- Keep your passport and email access handy during travel.
- Use the Emirates mobile app for real-time updates.
Conclusion
The UK ETA isn’t just red tape—it’s your ticket through UK borders.
If you’re flying with Emirates from the UAE or GCC, then plan ahead and apply early. As such, keep your documents clean, details accurate, and support options handy.
For fast, reliable, and professional UK ETA processing, apply via EVS.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all Emirates passengers need a UK ETA?
No. To clarify, only travelers from visa-exempt countries like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar need the authorization.
Can I apply for an ETA through Emirates?
No, you cannot. As such, apply directly via the EVS platform.
What if authorities deny my ETA application?
If authorities deny your application, then you’ll receive an email with reasons. Hence, contact EVS before reapplying.
Can I enter the UK without an ETA?
No, you cannot, if you are eligible for it. Correspondingly, Emirates may deny you boarding or authorities may refuse you entry at the UK border.
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
- Botswana
- 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 citizenships.
Are there non-EU European countries that need a UK ETA?
Yes. Specifically, these include Andorra, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Monaco, Norway, San Marino, Switzerland, and the Vatican City.
Do I need an ETA if I’m transiting?
Earlier, in January 2025, the UK temporarily suspended the requirement for transit passengers.
Hence, if you’re transiting without entering the UK, then you don’t need an ETA. Specifically, this applies if you stay in the international transit zone. If you pass through UK border control for any reason, even briefly, then the authorization becomes mandatory.
Photo by Fabian Joy on Unsplash
