With a UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation), you can visit the UK for up to six months for business, academic, or creative activities. However, there are some important rules to keep in mind, especially if you plan to work or receive payment during your stay. Make sure your activities align with the UK ETA guidelines to avoid any complications.
Business Activities:
With a UK ETA, you can attend meetings, interviews, conferences, and trade fairs (though selling products is not allowed). You can also negotiate and sign contracts, oversee deliveries, and inspect sites. If you work for an overseas company, you can train UK employees or install, repair, or offer advice on equipment as part of an existing contract.
Paid Work (Only for the First Month):
You can engage in permitted paid activities if invited as an expert. This includes giving guest lectures at UK universities, speaking at professional events, participating in arts or sports activities, or providing legal advocacy. However, any paid work must be completed within the first month of your stay. After that, you cannot engage in any paid work for the remainder of your visit.
Academic & Research Work:
If you’re a scientist, researcher, or professor, you can participate in exchange programs, conduct research, or give unpaid academic talks. Senior doctors and dentists can teach or do clinical work, but only in non-permanent roles. If invited to give a paid lecture or assessment, this falls under permitted paid activities and must be completed within the first month.
Working in Arts & Entertainment (Up to 3 Months):
If you’re visiting the UK for arts or entertainment work, you can stay for up to three months. You’ll need a Certificate of Sponsorship and proof of savings. You must also meet with a Border Force officer in person, and should not use the automatic ePassport gates.
UK ETA Visa Requirements
UK ETA Requirement
To apply for a UK ETA Visa, make sure you have the following
Valid Passport
Your passport should be valid for at least six months from your travel date to the UK. You’ll need it for both the application and your trip.
Recent Photo
Payment Method
Use a valid payment method like a credit card, debit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay to pay the application fee.
Active Email Address
Provide an email address you use often. You’ll get updates and the approval notice through this email.
Clean Criminal Recor
You need to have a clean criminal record. If you’ve been convicted of a crime and served a prison sentence of 12 months or more, your application could be denied. This also applies if you’ve been convicted in the past year.
How To Apply For A UK ETA
Apply for a UK ETA
The UK ETA application process is simple and quick. You can do everything online, and it takes just a few minutes to complete. Follow these three easy steps
Fill Out the Online Form
Enter your personal details, such as your name, passport number, and travel information. Attach the required documents.
Pay the Fee
Use a debit or credit card to pay the application fee. Double-check your payment details to avoid delays.
Get Your ETA
Once approved, you’ll get an email with your ETA confirmation. Your ETA is linked to your passport. Use the same passport to travel to the UK.
UK ETA Processing Time, Cost, Validity and Duration
Processing Time
The UK ETA is usually processed quickly. Most travelers get approval in a few hours. However, it can take up to 3 days in some cases. Processing time depends on how many applications are being handled and if extra checks are needed. To avoid delays, apply early, especially during busy travel times.
Cost
The UK ETA fee is 000. This covers both the government fee and our service fee for handling your application.
Validity and Duration
Your UK ETA is valid for 2 years or until your passport expires. During this time, you can visit the UK multiple times. Each stay is limited to 6 months. If you get a new passport, you must apply for a new ETA. The ETA cannot be extended. If you need to stay longer, you will need to apply for a different visa.
Who Does Not Need An ETA
The UK ETA is a great way to travel to the UK for short visits. It makes the application process faster and easier. If you’re eligible, apply today, we will assist you in every stage.
UKETA, Malaysia’s top visa agency for UK ETA since 2024, simplifies applications for tourism, business, study, and family visits. Our expert team ensures a fast, secure process with dedicated support.
Disclaimer: At UK ETA Malaysia We are a private company offering visa assistance and are not affiliated with the UK government. All official applications can be made at the official government website.
