Most problems with a UK ETA application via etourist.com come from a few avoidable mistakes, not from the form itself. Each one below comes with the rule behind it, so you can get it right the first time and avoid paying twice.
| Mistake | Quick fix |
|---|---|
| Wrong passport number | Copy it from the photo page, digit by digit |
| Weak face photo | Plain light background, well-lit room, no filters |
| Applying at the airport | Apply at least 3 working days ahead |
| Ignoring eTourist emails | Reply within 7 days |
| Using the wrong passport | Apply with the one you will travel on |
Avoid Typing the Wrong Passport Number
GOV.UK says an ETA is linked to the passport you apply with. At check-in, the airline looks for an ETA matching your passport.
A swapped digit or a letter O typed as zero can leave you with an ETA for a passport that does not exist. GOV.UK says changing details means applying again, and the GBP 20 fee is not refunded.
Example. A traveller renews a passport in spring and applies in summer using the old number from a saved booking. The ETA links to the cancelled passport, and a new application is needed.
Do Not Upload a Weak Face Photo
GOV.UK points ETA applicants to its rules for digital photos of faces. Not following them can cause delays or a rejection.
- Use a plain, light-coloured background with clear contrast.
- Take it in a well-lit room with no shadows on your face or behind you.
- Keep a plain expression with your mouth closed and eyes open.
- Skip glasses unless you need them, and avoid glare on the lenses.
- Do not edit the photo or add filters.
Head coverings are allowed only for religious or medical reasons, and hair must not cover your eyes. The photo should show your head, shoulders and upper body.
A selfie at arm’s length often fails on shadows and framing. GOV.UK suggests having another person take the photo where possible.
Skip the Airport-Gate Application
Since 25 February 2026, airlines refuse boarding to visitors who need an ETA and do not have one. Leaving it to the departure lounge is the costliest mistake on this list.
Tip. Apply as soon as your trip is booked. The Home Office recommends at least three working days before travel, since some applications go to manual review.
Applying early has another benefit. If you spot a mistake after approval, there is still time to reapply before the trip.
A faster eTourist service level does not change the government side. Its terms say Rush and Super Rush only speed up eTourist’s own preparation.
Do Not Forget the Children
Every traveller needs their own ETA, and GOV.UK names babies and children specifically. A family that applies only for the adults will be stopped at check-in.
Children’s photos follow their own rules. They must be alone in the picture, children under 6 need not look at the camera, and babies under one may have their eyes closed.
Warning. A parent’s hand or arm in the frame breaks the rule that children must be on their own. Lay a baby on a plain light sheet instead.
Do Not Pick the Wrong Kind of Permission
The ETA is for short visits of up to six months, such as tourism, business trips and transit. It is not a route to live in the UK.
Booking an ETA for a long stay is a mistake that no review will fix. Check the visa options on GOV.UK if your plans go beyond a visit.
Check Whether You Need One at All
Paying for an ETA you do not need is a quieter mistake. British and Irish citizens, dual citizens included, are exempt and should travel on their British or Irish passport.
People who already hold a UK visa or permission to live, work or study in the UK do not need one either. eTourist’s UK page lists the same exemptions.
Good to know. If you stay airside at Heathrow or Manchester without passing UK passport control, the Home Office says you do not currently need an ETA. Passing through passport control for a connection does require one.
Make the UK ETA Application via etourist.com Count
A few habits keep an eTourist order moving and protect your refund options.
- Answer every question truthfully. The terms make you responsible for accurate information.
- Reply to eTourist requests within 7 days, or the order is marked non-responsive.
- Finish the order within 30 days, or it closes without a refund.
- Ask for any refund within 7 days of ordering, before the file goes to the government.
- Save your order number and the decision email.
Note. This is general information, not immigration advice. Check GOV.UK for the current rules before you travel.
Common Questions Before You Submit
Can I fix a mistake after submitting?
Once the application is with the government, no. GOV.UK says you need to apply again to change details.
Does each child need a separate application?
Yes. Every traveller needs an ETA, including babies, each with the GBP 20 fee.
What if my ETA is refused?
There is no appeal. You would need to apply for a visa instead. eTourist refunds its fee for a refusal only if you bought Denial Protection first.
How do I know the application went through?
Your eTourist order status changes to With Government once it is submitted. The decision then arrives by email, and GOV.UK says it includes a 16-digit ETA reference number.
Will the ETA guarantee entry?
No. GOV.UK says an ETA does not guarantee entry, and Border Force makes the final decision on arrival.