Last update: 10 May 2025

UK ETA for Portuguese Citizens

UK ETA for Portuguese Citizens

A UK ETA for Portuguese citizens is a digital permit that must be obtained before entering the United Kingdom. The ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) was first launched in October 2023 to strengthen border security and is mainly introduced for nationals of visa-exempt countries. Through the ETA system, the government can pre-screen travellers before they arrive in the UK.

Portuguese nationals could previously travel visa-free to the UK, but will now require an ETA for all travel after 2 April 2025. Applications for the UK ETA for EU citizens opened on 5 March 2025.

With a UK ETA, Portuguese travellers can stay in the UK for up to six months for the following purposes:

Tourism: Visit historical sites, cultural attractions, shopping, and leisure activities.
Family and Friends Visits: Spend time with relatives or friends living in the UK.
Business: Attend meetings, conferences, or negotiate business deals.
Short-term Study: Take language courses or short training programmes.
Creative Worker Concession (up to 3 months): Work in creative fields such as acting, dancing, singing, or film crew work with a certificate of sponsorship.
Permitted Paid Engagements: Deliver lectures, assessments, or professional activities within the first month of arrival.
Transit: Pass through the UK during flight layovers requiring border control.

Portuguese Visitor Statistics to the United Kingdom

The UK welcomed 494,000 visits from Portugal in 2022. Visitors from Portugal spent a combined total of £223 million, with an average spend of £451 per person.

Benefits of the UK ETA for Portuguese Citizens

Although Portuguese nationals must apply for an ETA, the scheme offers several advantages:

Multi-entry Validity

A single ETA allows multiple trips to the UK during its validity period. There is no need to reapply for each visit.

Cost-effective

An ETA costs less than a standard UK visa and is valid for a longer duration.

Quick Application Process

The ETA application requires only basic information and usually receives a faster decision than a visa, making travel planning easier.

UK ETA Eligibility Criteria for Portuguese Citizens

Portuguese citizens are eligible for an ETA as long as they meet the requirements listed here. Travellers who intend to work, live, or study long-term in the UK must apply for a standard visa instead.

Short Stay Only

The applicant must not plan to stay in the UK for more than six months.

No Criminal Record

Applicants with convictions resulting in a sentence of 12 months or more will be refused an ETA.

UK ETA Validity and Duration of Stay

A UK ETA issued to Portuguese citizens is valid for two years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. During this period, travellers may make multiple visits, each stay lasting up to six months.

The ETA does not allow long-term employment, settlement, or extended study.

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:

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.

2

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.

4

How to Apply for a UK ETA for Portuguese Citizens?

Applying for a UK ETA for Portuguese citizens is quick and straightforward. The application is fully online and takes only a few minutes to complete. Follow the steps below to submit your ETA application:

Step 01
Fill Out the Application Form

Enter your basic information including full name, date of birth, residential address, and contact details. Provide your Portuguese passport details and information about your current occupation. You will also be asked to declare any criminal history or involvement in terrorism or war-related activities.
Step 02
Attach Required Documents

Upload a clear copy of your passport biodata page ensuring that all information is readable. You must also upload a recent passport-style photograph that meets UK ETA image requirements.
Step 03
Pay the Application Fee

Complete your payment using a valid debit card or credit card to finalize the application fee.
Step 04
Submit Your Application

Once payment is successful, submit the ETA application. Ensure all details are accurate before submitting.
Step 05
Receive Your ETA

You will receive your ETA decision via email. If approved, your ETA will be electronically linked to your Portuguese passport. If refused, you will also receive an email with further instructions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Portuguese citizens need an ETA for travel on or after April 1, 2025. After this date, they must hold an ETA to enter the UK for a short stay or transit.

The UK ETA applies to travelers from countries that previously enjoyed visa-free access. The UK is rolling out the ETA system in phases, beginning with Gulf countries. ETA applications for non-European travelers are already open, with the official launch date set for January 8, 2025.

If your ETA application is rejected, it is usually due to incorrect or missing details such as an unclear photo, a wrong passport number, or incorrect birth information. Simply correct the error and resubmit your ETA application.

A rejection happens when the application contains mistakes or missing information. You can correct the issue and reapply.

A refusal means your application was reviewed and determined ineligible. You cannot appeal or reapply for an ETA. Your next option is to apply for a standard UK visa instead.

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UK ETA for Portuguese Citizens