The UK is moving to a “no permission, no travel” model. If you are a visa-exempt traveler, you likely need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). However, many travelers are currently paying upwards of £80 due to misleading websites and simple application errors.
Applying for your travel permit should be straightforward. This guide breaks down exactly how to keep your costs transparent and avoid the “scam” prices that have surfaced in 2026.
if needed, Apply for your UK ETA: https://application.uketa.com.my/
Real Cost of a UK ETA in 2026: Official Fees vs. Service Charges
Knowing the market rate is your first line of defense. There are three paths you can take, and the price difference is significant.
As of 2026, the official UK government fee is £16. This is a non-refundable mandatory charge. However, many travelers prefer a managed service to ensure their data is perfect, as a single typo results in a rejected application and a lost fee.
Transparency: Comparing Your Options
| Feature | Official GOV.UK | uketa.com.my Service | Typical “Scam” Site |
| Official ETA Fee | £16 | £16 (Included) | £16 |
| Service/Processing | £0 | £10 | £50 – £100+ |
| Total Cost | £16 | £26 (GBP) | £66 – £116+ |
| 24/7 Support | No | Yes | No |
| Form Verification | Self-Service | Expert Review | None |
5 Red Flags of UK ETA Application Scams
Fraudulent websites often buy “Sponsored” slots on search engines to appear above official results. They hide their massive surcharges until the very last click.
Before you enter your credit card details, check for these red flags:
- The “Urgent” Price Jump: Scams often claim they can get your approval “instantly” for an extra £50. The UK government does not offer a priority ETA service.
- Hidden Total Costs: If a site doesn’t clearly state its service fee separate from the £16 government fee, be wary. At uketa.com.my, the £10 service charge is transparent.
- The URL Check: Official sites end in .gov.uk. If you choose a third-party for assistance, ensure they are a recognized agency and not a “mirror” site mimicking the government.
- No Human Support: Most scam sites are automated scripts. If there is no live support or email contact to verify your details, your money is at risk.
- Vague Refund Policies: Because the £16 government fee is non-refundable, scam sites use this to refuse refunds for their own massive service fees as well.
Common Mistakes That Lead to “Hidden” Re-application Fees
The most expensive “hidden charge” is the cost of a mistake. Because the ETA is non-refundable, a typo in your passport number means you must pay the £16 again.
To avoid paying twice, verify these details:
- Passport Number: Ensure “O” and “0” are not swapped.
- Date of Birth: This must match your biometric chip exactly.
- Nationalities: Dual citizens must apply with the passport they intend to travel on.
Using a concierge service like uketa.com.my minimizes this risk. Our team performs a manual check of your data before submission to ensure your £16 isn’t wasted on a preventable error.
How to Pay for Your UK ETA Securely
The UK government accepts major credit cards, debit cards, Apple Pay, and Google Pay.
Avoid Bank Surcharges
If your bank account is not in GBP, you may face an International Transaction Fee.
- Pro Tip: Pay using a travel-optimized card or a digital wallet like Apple Pay to get the best real-time conversion rates.
- uketa.com.my Pricing: Our flat £26 fee includes the government charge, meaning you won’t see unexpected “add-on” processing fees at checkout.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
What is the official fee for a UK ETA in 2026?
The official government fee is £16 per person. This payment is mandatory for all applicants and is required to process the digital permission to travel.
Why does https://uketa.com.my charge £26?
The £26 covers the £16 government fee plus a £10 service fee. This provides you with 24/7 email support, manual data verification to prevent costly typos, and urgent 12-hour processing assistance.
Are there any other hidden costs?
No, there are no other hidden service charges. The only additional cost might be a small currency conversion fee charged by your own bank if you are paying from a non-UK account.
Can I get a refund if my UK ETA is rejected?
The £16 government fee is non-refundable by the Home Office. However, legitimate agencies like uketa.com.my offer support to ensure your application is submitted correctly the first time to avoid this loss.
How can I avoid “scam” websites?
Avoid sites charging over £40 for a single ETA. Many sites charge £80 or more without providing additional value. Stick to the official portal or a transparent service like ours that clearly lists a fair £10 management fee.
