Last update: 10 May 2025

UK ETA for Japanese Citizens

Apply now
Uk city

What is the UK ETA for Japanese Citizens?

The UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is an online travel permission that allows citizens of eligible countries — including Japan — to visit the United Kingdom for short stays without applying for a standard visa.

Key points at a glance:

  • The UK ETA launched in phases and became available to Japanese nationals on 27 November 2024, enabling travel from 8 January 2025 onwards.
  • ETA holders can visit the UK for short stays of up to 6 months for purposes such as tourism, business, visiting family and friends, short-term study, and certain permitted paid engagements.
  • The ETA replaces the previous Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW) system and simplifies entry while helping UK border security.
  • Multiple entries are allowed while the ETA and passport remain valid (typically up to 2 years or until passport expiry).

If you need step-by-step guidance on applying for a UK ETA, continue reading — this guide explains eligibility, costs, processing time and entry rules.

Japanese Visitor Statistics to the United Kingdom

  • In 2023 the UK received approximately 225,000 visits from Japanese travellers.
  • The average spend per Japanese visitor was around £1,079.
  • 77% of Japanese visitors reported they were "extremely likely" to recommend Britain as a destination.

These figures highlight strong interest from Japan in visiting the UK and suggest tourism levels are returning to pre-pandemic patterns.

Benefits of the UK ETA for Japanese Travellers

The ETA provides a fast, digital alternative to traditional visas. It reduces paperwork and lets eligible travellers obtain permission online before travelling to the UK.

Quick Online Application

Applicants complete the ETA form online — no embassy visit required. Most straightforward applications are processed within a few business days.

Low Application Cost

The ETA application fee is designed to be affordable. (If using a third-party service, additional service charges may apply.)

Multiple Entries

Once issued, the ETA typically permits multiple visits until it or the linked passport expires — visit the UK repeatedly without reapplying during the validity period.

ETA Validity & Length of Stay

The UK ETA approved for Japanese citizens is valid from the date of issue and usually remains active for up to 2 years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. While your ETA is valid you may visit the UK for up to 6 months per visit for permitted purposes. Ensure your passport has sufficient validity for your planned travel dates.

United Kingdom

UK ETA requirements

To apply for a UK ETA, all eligible travelers are required to meet certain basic criteria. Below are the mandatory requirements that every applicant must provide:

payment
1

Passport

Applicants must have a valid passport from an eligible country, preferably with two years of validity.

Personal Photo

Applicants must submit a recent upper-body photo that meets official specifications.

payment
2
payment
3

Payment Method

Applicants must have a valid card or access to Apple Pay or Google Pay to pay the ETA UK fee.

Email address

Applicants must provide a valid email address to receive their UK ETA upon approval.

payment
4

Applying for a UK ETA for Japanese Citizens

Japanese travellers can apply for a UK ETA easily by following the five simple steps below.

  • Step 01
    Fill Out the Application Form

    Start by completing the online form with your basic personal information including your full name, email address, residential address and passport details.

  • Step 02
    Attach Required Documents

    Upload a clear copy of your valid Japanese passport along with a recent digital photograph of your face.

  • Step 03
    Pay the Application Fees

    Pay the mandatory ETA application fee online. Please note that this fee is non-refundable, even if your application is unsuccessful.

  • Step 04
    Submit the Application

    Once all information is filled in and documents are uploaded, submit the application online. No embassy appointment is required at any stage.

  • Step 05
    Receive Your ETA

    Your ETA will be delivered digitally. You will receive an email confirming whether your application has been approved or denied—no physical documents are issued.

Frequently Asked Questions

If your ETA is rejected, you will receive an email explaining the issue—often incorrect or mismatched details. You may correct the information and reapply.

If it is refused, this may be due to eligibility or past travel issues. You cannot reapply for an ETA, but you may apply for a standard UK visa.

Yes. The ETA replaces the previous UK visa waiver scheme for Japanese travellers. Eligible visitors must apply for an ETA before travelling to the UK.

Japanese citizens can apply for the ETA from 27 November 2024 and travel using the ETA starting from 8 January 2025.

The UK ETA is typically valid for 2 years or until the passport expires—whichever comes first. You can enter the UK multiple times during this period.

An approved ETA allows Japanese travellers to stay in the UK for up to 6 months per visit for tourism, business, or short-term study purposes.

Most ETA applications are processed within a few business days. However, travellers are advised to apply well before their planned travel date in case additional checks are required.

No physical document is required. The ETA is linked electronically to your passport. Airlines and UK border officials will automatically verify your ETA during check-in and arrival.

Apply now