Planning a trip from Kuala Lumpur to London used to be simple, book your flight, pack your bags, and go.
However, as of February 25, 2026, the UK government has strictly enforced the mandatory digital Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for all Malaysian passport holders.
If you arrive at KLIA without an approved ETA, you will be denied boarding. This adds a new layer of budgeting and administration for families traveling together.
The good news? The process is entirely digital. This guide breaks down exactly what a family of four will pay and how to secure your approval through uketa.com.my.
Apply for your UK ETA, click here: https://application.uketa.com.my/
The Total Bill: How Much Does a Family of Four Pay?
For many Malaysian families, the first question is the bottom line. The UK government sets a flat fee for every applicant, with no “family discounts” or group rates.
Depending on the urgency of your travel and the service level you choose, the costs for a family of four are as follows:
| Service Type | Individual Cost | Family of Four Total | Processing Time |
| Regular UK ETA | £26 | £104 | Within 3 Working Days |
| Urgent UK ETA | £49 | £196 | Within 12 Working Hours |
Note: A transaction charge of 4.40% applies to these fees. Prices in Malaysian Ringgit (MYR) will fluctuate based on the daily exchange rate and your bank’s foreign transaction fees.
Mandatory “No Permission, No Travel” Rule
The UK ETA is not optional. It is a digital link to your biometric passport. Carriers—including airlines and ferry companies—are now legally required to check for this authorization before you board your transport.
If you are a non-visa national (which includes Malaysians), you must have this “digital permission” to enter the UK for tourism, business, or short-term study. Without it, your holiday ends at the check-in counter.
Does Every Family Member Need One? (Infants & Minors)
A common mistake is assuming that young children or infants are exempt from the fee. This is incorrect.
Every traveler, regardless of age, must have their own UK ETA.
- Infants: Even newborns require an ETA linked to their passport.
- Minors: Children under 18 must have an application completed by a parent or guardian.
- Fees: The individual fee remains the same for every traveler, regardless of age.
UK ETA vs. Standard Visitor Visa: A Cost Comparison
Before 2025, Malaysians enjoyed visa-free entry. While the ETA is a new cost, it remains significantly more affordable and faster than a Standard Visitor Visa.
| Feature | UK ETA (Regular) | Standard Visitor Visa |
| Cost | £26 | £115+ |
| Processing Time | Within 3 Working Days | 3 Weeks+ |
| Application | Fully Mobile/Digital | Biometric Appointment Required |
For a family of four, choosing the ETA route provides massive savings in both time and application fees compared to traditional visa costs.
Step-by-Step: Applying for Your Family at uketa.com.my
To avoid the stress of individual applications, many families use uketa.com.my to streamline the process. Our service is available Monday to Friday, from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, to help manage the data for all your family members in one place.
- Prepare Passports: Ensure all four Malaysian passports have at least 6 months of validity.
- Digital Photos: Take a clear, well-lit photo of each family member that complies with official rules.
- Select Service: Choose between Regular (£26) or Urgent (£49) based on your travel timeline.
- Wait for Approval: Approvals arrive via email, with the Urgent service providing a decision within just 12 working hours.
UK ETA Fee Estimator
Includes 4.40% transaction fee
Common Questions (FAQ)
How much is the UK ETA fee for a Malaysian citizen in 2026?
The fee for a Regular UK ETA is £26 per person. For those needing a faster decision, the Urgent UK ETA is £49 per person. Both options are subject to a 4.40% transaction charge.
Does a family of four need four separate UK ETAs?
Yes, every individual must have a unique authorization. You cannot “share” an ETA. For a family of four, you must submit four applications and pay the relevant fee for each person.
How long is the ETA valid for Malaysians?
A UK ETA is valid for two years from the approval date. If your passport expires during those two years, the ETA becomes invalid, and you must apply for a new one with your new passport.
Is the UK ETA fee refundable if my trip is canceled?
No, the fee is non-refundable once the application has been submitted. The UK government and service providers do not issue refunds if your travel plans change or if your application is refused.
Can I apply for my whole family in one session?
Yes, you can apply for others using our streamlined process. You will simply need to scan each passport and provide a photo for each family member individually during the application session.
