🌍 Coming to Study English in Scotland?
What EU Students Need to Know About the UK ETA 🇬🇧✈️
At ECS Scotland, we warmly welcome adult students from all over the world to our small, friendly school in the heart of Edinburgh. If you are from an EU country and planning to visit us for a short English course, there is one important document to prepare before you travel: the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).
Here’s everything you need to know—explained.
✅ What is an ETA?
The ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) is a new travel requirement for visitors who do not need a visa to enter the UK. It applies to many EU nationals visiting for short stays (up to 6 months), including those coming to study English in the UK at accredited schools like ECS Scotland.
It’s similar to the ESTA used in the USA or the ETIAS for travel in the EU. It helps UK border authorities know more about who is entering the country and it is part of new border security processes.
🌍 Who Needs an ETA?
At the moment, nationals of the following EU and EEA countries will need an ETA if they are visiting the UK for:
• Tourism
• Business
• Study (short-term)
Countries currently required to apply for an ETA include:
• France
• Germany
• Spain
• Italy
• Netherlands
…and many more EU/EEA countries.
Please check the official UK government ETA page here for the full, updated list.
🕒 When Should I Apply?
You should apply before you travel. We recommend applying at least a week in advance, although many people receive a decision within 24 to 72 hours.
Your ETA will be digitally linked to your passport and will be valid for 2 years (or until your passport expires, whichever comes first). You can use it for multiple trips to the UK.
📝 How to Apply for an ETA
Applying is simple and completely online:
1. Visit the official ETA application page: Apply here
2. Have your documents ready:
• A valid biometric passport
• A recent digital photo (passport-style)
• A credit or debit card to pay the application fee (£10)
3. The fastest way to apply is through the UK ETA app.
It takes around 10–15 minutes to complete.
4. Pay the fee - The ETA currently costs £10 per application. DO NOT pay more!
5. Wait for approval - Most decisions are made within a few hours but it can take up to 3 working days.
How to apply for the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)
🎒 Coming to ECS Scotland?
✉️ Have Questions?
You can find full guidance and updates on the official UK government website here:
Remember, the ETA is not a visa—it’s simply permission to travel to the UK. For most of our students attending short English courses, this is all you need.
