NAM
NAM Solicitors
Your Legal Partner
We advise on the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), transit visas, and entry clearance matters for nationals who require pre-travel authorisation to visit the United Kingdom. Since November 2023, the ETA has been rolling out and now applies to most non-EEA nationals who previously entered the UK visa-free.
The UK ETA is a pre-travel permission for nationals who do not require a visa to visit the UK, and for certain other nationals as the system expands. It is linked electronically to your passport and must be obtained before travelling. An ETA is not a visa but its refusal can have serious consequences — including being prevented from boarding a flight or ferry to the UK.
We do not guarantee the outcome of any ETA application or entry clearance decision.
From 2 April 2025, the ETA requirement applies to EU, EEA and Swiss nationals and most other non-visa nationals travelling to the UK, subject to certain exemptions. The ETA costs £10 and is normally valid for 2 years or until your passport expires. Each ETA grants permission for multiple trips to the UK for up to 6 months per visit.
We assist individuals and families who are unsure how to complete the ETA application, have encountered errors or technical problems, or wish to have their application reviewed before submission.
ETA refusals are not subject to a right of appeal in the same way as visa refusals. We advise on the reasons for refusal and on the options available — including administrative review, fresh application or applying for a Standard Visitor Visa instead.
Certain individuals are exempt from the ETA requirement — including British Overseas Territory Citizens, those with leave to remain in the UK, and Irish citizens. We advise on whether you are exempt and what documentation you should carry.
EU, EEA and Swiss nationals with EUSS settled or pre-settled status are exempt from the ETA requirement. We advise on proving your EUSS status for travel and on what to carry when arriving in the UK.
Some nationalities require a UK Visitor in Transit visa or a Direct Airside Transit Visa (DATV) even if they are not entering the UK — simply transiting through a UK airport. Getting this wrong can mean being refused boarding or detained at the airport. We advise on whether you need a transit visa and assist with applications.
Required for certain nationalities transiting through the UK without passing through border control. We check whether your nationality requires a DATV and assist with the application if needed.
For those who will pass through UK border control during a layover. We advise on eligibility and the supporting documents required to show onward travel.
Entry clearance means a visa obtained from outside the UK before travel. For most immigration routes — including settlement, work and family visas — entry clearance is required. We advise on the entry clearance requirements for your specific route and nationality.
We advise on the entry clearance process for all visa categories — including family visas, work visas and settlement — for applicants applying from outside the UK.
Where entry clearance is refused, we review the refusal notice, advise on the reasons and on whether an administrative review, appeal or fresh application is appropriate.
Written quote before work begins. Government fees payable separately.
From 2 April 2025, EU, EEA and Swiss nationals (and most non-visa nationals) require an ETA before travelling to the UK. Applications should be made well in advance of travel. An ETA refusal does not prevent you applying for a Standard Visitor Visa.
Contact us if you need help with an ETA, transit visa or entry clearance matter.
Contact us for clear advice on travel authorisation and entry clearance requirements.