UK ETA App Guide: Requirements, US Passport Tips & Official Download
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The UK ETA app is the official mobile way to apply for an electronic travel authorisation. This guide explains device requirements, the US passport scan tip, children’s face-scan rules, and official vs lookalike apps — based on GOV.UK — Using the UK ETA app. For eligibility, cost and validity, read the UK ETA guide. To start an assisted online application, use my-evisas.com.
Quick answer
- Apply on a compatible iPhone or Android with NFC, or apply online if the app fails (GOV.UK guidance).
- The app is English only.
- US passports: if the front scan fails, place the phone on the inside of the back cover.
- Children aged 9 or younger are not asked for a face scan; every traveller (including babies) still needs their own ETA.
- Government fee is the same online or in the app (see fee note below).
- Prefer store links from the GOV.UK guidance page; for assisted filing, start on my-evisas.com.
Device requirements — iPhone, Android, NFC
Per Using the UK ETA app:
- iPhone: iPhone 7, 7 Plus, or newer, with iOS 16 or later
- Android: Android 12 or later, with NFC
NFC is how the phone reads the passport chip. If your phone is older than these baselines, use the online application instead of fighting the app.
US passport scan tip and applying for children
If you apply for another person in the app, they must be with you. If they are elsewhere, use the official online application. Children aged 9 or younger do not need a face scan, but a face photo is still required.
United States passports: GOV.UK says that if scanning the front of the passport does not work, place the phone on the inside of the back cover.
Children: you will not be asked to scan the face of a child aged 9 or younger. Separately, official rules require an ETA for each person travelling, including babies and children — so each child still needs their own application even when a face scan is not required.
English-only app and applying online instead
The UK ETA app is only available in English. If you have problems using the app, GOV.UK says you can apply online instead via gov.uk/eta/apply.
After you apply, you’ll get a decision by email from UKVI, usually within a day; allow up to 3 working days. Wait for the confirmation email before you travel.
Lookalike apps — stick to the official download
The official ETA overview warns that other websites may charge more, and to avoid websites that imitate government services. You cannot get a faster decision by applying through another website or app.
Prefer the App Store or Google Play links from Using the UK ETA app only. For assisted online filing (not a substitute for the official app), start on my-evisas.com.
Government application fee
An ETA costs £20 to apply online or through the UK ETA app. You cannot get a refund after you apply (GOV.UK). Validity, family, and transit details live in the UK ETA guide.
FAQ
Which phones work with the UK ETA app?
iPhone 7 / 7 Plus or newer with iOS 16+, or Android 12+ with NFC (GOV.UK guidance).
Why won’t my US passport scan?
Try placing the phone on the inside of the back cover if the front scan fails. If the app still fails, apply online.
Do children need a face scan?
Not for a child aged 9 or younger. They still need their own ETA.
Is the UK ETA app free / what does it cost?
See the fee note above (same government fee online or in the app). Prefer my-evisas.com if you want assisted filing, or the app/store links from the GOV.UK apply guide.
Where do I download the official app?
From the App Store / Google Play links on gov.uk/guidance/using-the-uk-eta-app only.
Apply with help or DIY — next steps
- Assisted ETA: Start an online application on my-evisas.com
- Full rules: UK ETA guide
- Hub: UK hub
Last updated: 15 September 2026
Important Notice
The information on this page is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. my-evisas.com is a private service provider and not a government authority, embassy, or consulate.
Visa requirements and entry rules can change at short notice. We do not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of the information provided. Only the official rules in force when you apply are authoritative.
As of: 15 September 2026
Binding information: GOV.UK — Using the UK ETA app · Apply for an ETA