What do non-visa nationals need to enter the UK?
International students need permission to enter the UK in order to study.
If you are studying in the UK for more than six months, you will normally need to apply for a Student Route visa before travelling to the UK.
If you are studying in the UK for six months or less, and are a national of certain countries, you will be required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) prior to travelling to the UK.
An Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a requirement for certain nationals who wish to travel to the UK for the purpose of entering as a visitor to study. ETA grants visitors permission to travel to the UK and must be obtained before travel to the UK.
You can apply for your ETA online on the gov.uk website or via the UK ETA app. Applications currently cost £16 and a decision is usually made within 3 working days. The visa granted is valid for a two-year period. After you apply, you will receive an email confirming your ETA. Your ETA will be linked to the passport you have applied with.
ETA does not guarantee entry to the UK. Visitors with ETA must still obtain permission to enter the UK upon arrival, which can be done by seeing a Border Force officer or by using an ePassport gate (if eligible).
Please see the information on the Government's webpage for guidance on how to apply for an electronic travel authorisation (ETA).
If you have questions or concerns about which visa type is right for you, please use the Contact Us button at the bottom of this page to contact the International Student Team (IST).