UK Entry Requirements: Visas & Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)

Understanding UK entry requirements is essential for short-term students planning to study in the country. Depending on nationality, students may need to apply for a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before travelling.

Do you need a visa or ETA?

Students coming to the UK for a short-term study programme may need to apply for a visa or an ETA, depending on their nationality:

Standard Visitor Visa – If you are from a country that requires a visa to enter the UK, you must apply for this visa before travelling. It allows you to study for up to six months.
Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) – Many students from countries that do not require a visa will need to apply for an ETA before travelling to the UK. This is a new requirement that applies to non-visa nationals who previously could enter without prior authorisation.

To check if you need to apply for a visa or ETA, you can use the UK government tool here: Check if you need a UK visa - GOV.UK

What is an ETA?

An ETA is an electronic authorization allowing individuals to travel to the UK. It is required for people from countries who do not require a visa who are visiting for tourism, short-term study, business, or transiting through the UK. The ETA is valid for two years or until your passport expires (if your passport expires before two years), and permits multiple entries, with each stay limited to up to six months. From 2nd April 2025, most students from countries who do not need a visa (including those from the EU, USA, Australia, and others) will need to obtain an ETA before their trip. You can find more information about the ETA on the UK government website: Apply for an electronic travel authorisation (ETA) - GOV.UK

Check before you travel

It is important to check the latest UK entry requirements well in advance of your departure to ensure a smooth arrival. Visit the official UK government website for more information: Entering and staying in the UK - GOV.UK

If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact us on admin@britishsummerschool.co.uk