UK ETA for Spanish Citizens

A UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for Spanish citizens is a digital permit that allows nationals of Spain to travel to the United Kingdom. The ETA system was introduced in October 2023, initially for Qatari nationals, and has since expanded to more visa-free countries.

Spanish citizens, who previously travelled to the UK without a visa, must now obtain an ETA for visits from 2 April 2025 and were able to start applying from 5 March 2025. The ETA strengthens UK border security by pre-screening travellers before they arrive.

With a UK ETA, Spanish travellers can enter the UK for short trips for permitted purposes for up to 6 months at a time. The ETA does not replace long-term visas or allow permanent residence.

The ETA system is intended for visitors from visa-free countries, helping streamline entry and support secure, digital border management for the UK.

What can Spanish citizens do with a UK ETA?

Stay up to 6 months as a tourist to visit cultural and historical attractions.
Visit friends or family living in the UK.
Engage in business meetings or short-term study.
Work in the UK for up to 3 months under the Creative Worker visa concession.
Carry out a permitted paid engagement within the first month of arrival.
Transit through the UK even if not passing border control.

Spanish Visitor Statistics to the United Kingdom

In 2023, the UK received 2.2 million visits from Spain. Visitors from Spain spent a total of £1.1 billion, with an average spend of £484 per visit — an increase compared to 2022’s 2.01 million visits.

Benefits of the ETA for the UK for Spanish Citizens

The UK ETA provides several advantages to Spanish travellers. Key benefits include:

Quick and Easy Online Application

The ETA form can be completed online without visiting a consulate. Only basic personal and passport information is needed.

Cost-Effective

The ETA is valid for two years, making it an affordable option for frequent travellers from Spain.

Multi-Entry Validity

Holders can travel to the UK multiple times during the 2-year validity period without reapplying.

Smoother Immigration Processing

Since travellers are pre-screened, immigration checks at UK airports are faster. The UK is also moving toward fully digital, contactless border control.

UK ETA Eligibility Criteria for Spanish Citizens

To apply for a UK ETA, Spanish nationals must meet these eligibility requirements:

Spanish Passport Holder

Applicants must hold a valid Spanish passport. Spanish residents of other nationalities must check ETA eligibility or apply for a UK visa instead.

Short-Term Visit Only

The ETA cannot be used for stays longer than six months or for long-term work, marriage, employment, or long-term study.

No Criminal Record

Applications will be refused if the applicant has a criminal conviction with a sentence of 12 months or more, or if 12 months have not passed since the conviction.

UK ETA Validity and Duration of Stay

A UK ETA for Spanish citizens is valid for two years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. Travellers can stay up to six months per visit and can enter the UK multiple times during the validity period.

For longer stays, employment, or study beyond short courses, travellers will need to apply for an appropriate UK visa instead of an ETA.

UK ETA Requirements

Ensure you meet all the basic requirements and have the necessary documents ready
before starting your UK ETA application.

Passport

Valid passport with sufficient validity.

Personal Photo

Recent photo as per official guidelines.

Payment Method

Use card or digital payment options.

Email Address

Receive ETA updates and confirmation.

These requirements are necessary to verify your identity and ensure secure entry into the UK. They help authorities process your application faster by minimizing errors and missing information. Having all documents ready in advance ensures a smooth, quick, and hassle-free UK ETA application experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re a Spanish passport holder, you’ll need an ETA to enter the UK starting from April 2, 2025.

Currently, Spanish citizens can visit the UK without an ETA or visa for stays up to six months. However, from April 2, 2025, you must obtain a UK ETA before travelling. If your ETA is refused, you'll need to apply for a UK visa instead. Stay updated in case the ETA start date changes.

Rejected Application: If your UK ETA was rejected, this means your application could not be processed due to issues such as incorrect passport number, unclear photo, or missing information. Fix the errors mentioned in the notice and reapply.

Refused Application: If your ETA was refused, you cannot reapply for an ETA. Instead, you'll need to apply for a UK visa.

Rejection: Your application was not processed because of technical issues or incorrect/missing information. This does NOT mean you’re ineligible; you may correct the errors and apply again.

Refusal: Your application was fully processed, but you were found ineligible for an ETA, often due to security risks, criminal records, or other serious concerns. You cannot appeal or reapply for an ETA—your next step is to apply for a UK visa.

UK ETA for Spanish Citizens