If you’re traveling to the United Kingdom soon, then you might wonder what personal data the UK ETA system will collect. Put simply, the ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) is a digital permit that visitors must obtain before entry. Notably, it aims to enhance border security and streamline travel for millions of travelers annually. In this article, learn what biometric information you’ll need to provide, how the UK utilizes it, and its privacy implications.
UK ETA Explained
In particular, the UK ETA lets eligible visitors enter the United Kingdom for short stays, such as tourism, business, or transit. To clarify, it is not a visa, but rather a permit that allows travel to the UK for up to six months at a time.
Nearly all travelers who don’t require a visa must now apply for an ETA before boarding a flight or entering the UK. Specifically, this includes citizens of many non-Visa countries such as the United States, Canada, and most European nations.
“ETAs give us greater power to stop those who pose a threat from setting foot in the country and gives us a fuller picture of immigration,” remarked British Minister for Migration and Citizenship, Mike Tapp.
“ETAs are also better for travelers,” he added. “Digitizing the immigration system ensures the millions of people we welcome to the UK every year enjoy a more seamless travel experience.”
Why Biometric Data Matters
Notably, biometric data brings travel security to the next level. Additionally, it creates a digital link between your identity and your ETA application. Moreover, this helps border officials verify who you are and prevents identity fraud.
But biometric checks do more than match faces. In fact, they deter fake documents and unauthorized travel. Correspondingly, this is why biometrics are central to the UK’s modern border system.
What Information You Must Provide
During a UK ETA application, you will supply a mix of personal, travel, and biometric data. Overall, the process takes only minutes but has real implications.
Passport Information
You must provide accurate passport details. This includes:
- Full name
- Date of birth
- Passport number
- Passport expiration date
Correspondingly, your ETA becomes electronically linked to this passport. Note that if you renew or replace your passport, then you must apply for a new ETA.
Facial Biometric Image
Notably, a key step in the process is uploading or capturing a clear photo of your face. Hence, it is important that this image meets biometric standards.
Use your phone’s camera to take this photo. Notably, a strong, well-lit image ensures the system can match your face to the passport data.
In addition, this facial biometric is used to verify your identity quickly and securely. It also helps deter fraud and misrepresentation.
Passport Chip Scan
If your passport has an embedded electronic chip, then it is scanned via NFC (Near Field Communication) technology. Also, this process retrieves biometric data stored on the chip, reinforcing accuracy.
Furthermore, the biometric chip typically contains digital versions of your photo and passport details. Notably, this boosts security and speeds up verification.
Contact and Personal Details
You will also enter basic contact information, such as your email address. This lets the Home Office notify you about your ETA decision.
Additionally, the application form includes suitability questions. These cover things like criminal history or prior immigration refusals. Hence, honest answers help avoid delays or refusals.
How Biometric Data is Used
Once submitted, the biometric information plays several roles:
Identity Validation
The Home Office compares your face and passport data to confirm you are who you claim to be. This link is critical to the ETA system’s trustworthiness.
If the system can’t match your biometrics automatically, then a human reviewer may step in.
Border Security Screening
Biometric data supports security screening against watchlists and immigration records. As such, doing this before travel helps catch high-risk cases earlier.
Moreover, this proactive approach means fewer surprises for carriers and fewer delays at airports or ports of entry.
Digital Verification at the Border
Once your ETA is approved, your biometric identity stays linked to your passport. When you arrive at the UK border, officers can electronically verify your identity without additional steps.
Experts estimate that the UK will receive 44.3 million visits in 2025. Overall, this seamless link saves time and reduces confusion at passport control.
Biometric Data Storage
Generally, biometric retention policies are strict but vary based on type and use. Notably, the UK has a legal framework that governs this.
Facial Images
Facial biometric data entered during an ETA application may be kept for a period tied to the UK’s immigration functions. This supports future identity checks and border security.
Fingerprints (If Collected)
Although not part of the ETA application, fingerprints may be collected and used for more extensive immigration processes. When used, they can be retained under strict rules and reviewed periodically.
Retention always aligns with UK data protection laws and only when necessary for immigration or national security.
Privacy and Security
Your biometric data is treated as sensitive information. Hence, the UK government processes it under legal standards like the UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act (DPA).
Here’s how your data stays secure:
- Strong encryption protects data in transit and at rest.
- Home Office systems restrict access to authorized personnel only.
- The ETA application platform does not store biometric data on your device.
Although biometrics feel personal, these safeguards are designed to balance security with privacy rights.
How to Apply for an ETA
In summary, the UK ETA application is simple and entirely online. Correspondingly, here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Visit the EVS platform. Notably, it simplifies the ETA application process so you can avoid going through complex visa processes.
At EVS, your personal and travel information remains safe and secure with its strict data protection regulations. Moreover, it provides you with expert guidance and seamless support to ensure a stress-free application journey.
Step 2: Upload a passport photo. It must have a plain, light-colored background without any shadows or objects behind you.
Step 3: Upload a scan or photo of your passport information page. Ensure the full passport photo page is inside the frame, including the two lines of numbers and letters at the bottom. Additionally, the passport must be valid for at least six months upon entering and exiting the UK.
Step 4: Provide your personal information:
- Contact details
- Home address
- Employment information
- Citizenship information
- Criminal history, if any
Overall, make sure that the information you provide matches what is on your passport.
Step 5: Review and confirm the information on your application. In particular, you can pay using suitable electronic payment methods such as Apple Pay, Google Pay, a credit card, or a debit card.
Step 6: Pay the application fee.
Step 7: Receive your UK ETA. Next, you will receive an email with the decision. The authorization will be linked to your passport digitally.
Once approved, the ETA is valid for multiple visits over a two-year period, or until your passport expires. Because mistakes can delay approval, make sure to triple-check all entries before you submit.
Apply early. Do not wait until the week before your trip. Early applications reduce stress and allow time for corrections if needed. If you renew your passport before travel, reapply for a new ETA.
Ready to get started with your application? Then click the button below to obtain your ETA.
Common Privacy Concerns
Will my data be sold or shared publicly?
No. Government policy prohibits public sharing of ETA biometric data. Correspondingly, data use is limited to immigration control and related authorized checks.
Can someone else access my biometric information?
Only authorized Home Office officials may access your data for official immigration or border-security duties. Furthermore, unauthorized access can result in penalties under UK law.
What if I change my passport or name?
If your passport changes, then you must reapply for a new ETA. Note that the biometric link is valid only for the passport used for the original application.
Tips for a Smooth Process
Generally, follow these steps to avoid delays:
- Use a high-quality facial image with good lighting.
- Double-check passport details before submission.
- Because decisions can take up to three working days, apply well before your travel date.
Takeaway on Biometric Data
Overall, biometric data is central to the UK ETA system. Notably, it makes travel authorization faster and more secure. While the idea of sharing biometrics may seem intense, the UK treats this information with legal care.
As such, follow the guidelines, and your ETA application will be smooth and secure. Also, traveling smarter starts with understanding how your data works for you — not against you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is biometric data required for every applicant?
Yes. Overall, every ETA application for travel authorization includes biometric verification.
Do I need to submit biometrics again if I renew my passport?
Yes. Correspndingly, a new ETA application is required if your passport changes.
Do I need biometrics for a UK visitor visa?
Yes, it is standard procedure to have your fingerprints scanned and for authorities to capture your photo.
Should I print my UK ETA confirmation?
Because the ETA links digitally to your passport, printing is optional.
Which countries are eligible for the travel authorization?
In particular, business travelers from the following countries can apply for an ETA:
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Argentina
- Australia
- The Bahamas
- Bahrain
- Barbados
- Belize
- Brazil
- Brunei
- Canada
- Chile
- Costa Rica
- Grenada
- Guatemala
- Guyana
- Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (including British National Overseas)
- Israel
- Japan
- Kiribati
- Kuwait
- Macao Special Administrative Region
- Malaysia
- Maldives
- Marshall Islands
- Mauritius
- Mexico
- Federated States of Micronesia
- Nauru
- New Zealand
- Nicaragua
- Oman
- Palau
- Panama
- Papua New Guinea
- Paraguay
- Peru
- Qatar
- Samoa
- Saudi Arabia
- Seychelles
- Singapore
- Solomon Islands
- South Korea
- St. Kitts and Nevis
- St. Lucia
- St. Vincent and the Grenadines
- Taiwan
- Toga
- Tuvalu
- United Arab Emirates
- United States
- Uruguay
Meanwhile, applications have opened for European travelers visiting the UK on or after April 2, 2025:
- Andorra
- Austria
- Belgium
- Bulgaria
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Czechia
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Monaco
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania
- San Marino
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Vatican City
In addition, this also covers eligible dual citizens.
Are there non-EU European countries that need a UK ETA?
Yes. In particular, these include Andorra, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Monaco, Norway, San Marino, Switzerland, and the Vatican City.
Can I check someone else’s ETA?
Overall, you need the passport used for the application. Correspondingly, without it, you cannot check the ETA.
Photo by George Prentzas on Unsplash
