UK eTA for Group/Family Travel – Apply Together or Separately?
Dreaming of exploring the UK with your loved ones? Whether it’s a family holiday, a long-awaited reunion, or a fun trip with friends, planning group travel is exciting—but it does come with a few extra things to remember. One of the most important steps is applying for a UK Electronic Travel Authorization, or eTA. And naturally, the big question arises: Can we do it together as a group, or does everyone need their own application?
In this guide, we’ll go through how the eTA works for families and groups, what you can handle together, what must be done individually, and some tips to make the process smoother.
Family or Group Travel: Does Everyone Need a Separate eTA?
The rule is simple: each traveler needs their own UK eTA, even babies and young kids. There’s no “one application covers all” option, but the good news is that you can apply on behalf of someone else.
For example, if your child is too young to fill the UK eTA Application form or your friend is swamped with work, you can take care of it for them. You just need their correct personal information and passport details.
Each application is submitted individually. Think of it like checking names off a list—you go one by one. But if you have everyone’s information ready, you can do them all in a single sitting, which keeps things neat and avoids mistakes.
What You’ll Need for a UK eTA
Before jumping into the UK eTa application, gather your documents. Being prepared saves time and avoids last-minute headaches. You’ll need:
A valid passport – Make sure it’s not expiring soon; ideally, at least six months left.
A recent photo – Passport-style, plain background works best.
Extra proof – Keep your travel plan handy and evidence of funds, just in case an officer asks.
How to Apply for a UK eTA
If you’ve ever dreamt of enjoying fish and chips with the view of Big Ben, the eTA is your first step. Here’s how to go about it:
Fill out the online form Add your personal information, passport details, and travel dates. Double-check everything—any mismatch with your passport can cause delays.
Submit documents and pay the fee Upload a copy of your passport and photo, if required. Then pay the application fee online.
Track your application and get your eTA Review usually takes a few days. You can check status online. Once approved, download or print it and keep it handy for your trip.
How Long Does a UK eTA Last?
The eTA is valid for two years from the date it’s issued—or until your passport expires. You can enter the UK multiple times during this period. Each stay can’t exceed six months, and you need to meet entry requirements every visit.
Wrapping Up
Traveling to the UK with family or friends? Remember, everyone—including infants—needs their own eTA. Gather passports and documents, work together through the process, and soon you’ll be ready for an unforgettable trip full of memories.
FAQs
Q: Can a family apply together for a UK visitor visa? A: No, each person must submit their own application and pay the fee.
Q: How do I add family members to my UK visa application? A: Provide proof of relationship. The first applicant can request a family linking code for others to use.
Q: Can spouses apply together? A: For living together in the UK, apply for a Spouse Visa. Civil partners and eligible unmarried partners can also apply according to eTA rules.
Q: How do I apply for a UK eVisa for dependents? A: Each dependent must have their own UKVI account to access their eVisa.