Planning a UK trip soon? The UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is quick for most travellers; many applications made in the UK ETA app get an automatic decision in minutes. The Home Office, however, advises travellers to allow up to three working days to cover the small share of cases that need manual review. In this guide, you’ll learn the realistic processing time, who needs an ETA, when to apply to avoid last-minute stress, and the common mistakes that delay approvals.

UK ETA Processing Time (Including Weekends)

The UK ETA processing time ranges from under a minute to 3 working days (including weekends). 

Why the range?

The ETA system is designed to be automated. Files that pass data and risk checks are automatically approved quickly. A small portion is routed for manual review, which can push the decision closer to the three-day mark.

UK ETA Processing Time Country Wise: US, Europe, Canada

United States

• ETA is required for US passport holders.

• Typical decision: Often minutes, allow up to 3 working days.

Europe (EU/EEA + Switzerland)

• From 2 April 2025, an ETA will be required for eligible Europeans.

• Typical decision: Often minutes, allow up to 3 working days.

Canada

• ETA is required for Canadian passport holders.

• Typical decision: Often minutes, allow up to 3 working days.

Factors affecting UK ETA Processing time

Here are a few factors to consider before applying for a UK ETA: 

• Data mismatches: Always enter details exactly as printed in the passport’s biographical line and the machine-readable zone. If the app auto-fills from the chip, don’t “correct” it to a different spelling..

• Poor photo capture: The digital photo must meet the UK ETA photo requirements. Low light, shadows, cropped edges, soft focus, or glare on glasses can cause automated image checks to fail, delaying decisions or requiring a resubmission. Your selfie needs a plain, light background, full head and shoulders, neutral expression, eyes visible, and even lighting; the passport page image must show the entire page, including the MRZ lines, sharp and glare-free

• Flags from security or immigration history: Any past compliance issues can route your ETA to a human officer, extending processing time beyond the typical “minutes to a few days.” Omissions or half-answers make this worse and can trigger refusals. 

• Connectivity during app submission: A shaky connection, app timeouts, or payment handoffs that don’t complete can leave your application in limbo, paid but unlinked or submitted without images.

When Should You Apply for a UK ETA?

Follow the timelines below to apply for the UK ETA:

• Safe window: Apply at least 3 working days before travel.

• Peak periods/ complex travel history: Submit 1-2 weeks ahead to avoid itinerary stress, as airlines can deny boarding if your ETA hasn’t cleared.

• New passport: Your ETA is tied to the passport number used in the application. If you renew your passport, you’ll need to reapply for an ETA before travel with the new passport.

Tips to Avoid UK ETA Delays

Here are some tips for you to use when you are planning to apply for a UK ETA: 

• Apply at least 72 hours before your flight. Ideally, 2-3 weeks ahead.

• Use the same biometric passport you’ll travel with (must be machine-readable & undamaged).

• Enter your name exactly as it appears on the passport MRZ.

• Upload a recent, ICAO-style photo with a plain background, no filters, correct size.

• Pay with a 3D Secure-enabled card; keep funds & international payments enabled.

• Watch your email and spam folder for ETA updates. Keep the confirmation handy (PDF/email).

Apply early, double-check details, and travel with the same passport you used to apply. Most ETAs are clear in minutes, but the safe buffer is 3 working days, especially during peak seasons or if your history may trigger manual checks. Use the UK ETA app, upload a compliant photo, and keep digital + printed copies of your confirmation, flights, insurance, and accommodation.