UK ETA guidance
UK ETA for children
Babies and children need their own ETA if they are travelling on a passport that requires one. The process is similar to an adult application, but the photo and face-scan steps work differently depending on age.
Use this page if you are applying for a child, a baby or more than one traveller in the same family so you can choose the right route and avoid avoidable delays.
Important disclosure
Independent service
ETAApply is an independent application assistance service and is not affiliated with the UK Government. The official government application service is available through GOV.UK. ETAApply provides additional application assistance and support.
Official GOV.UK links
Check the official guidance
Separate applications
Every traveller needs their own ETA
The official ETA guidance says each traveller needs their own ETA, including babies and children. A family holiday does not create one shared ETA for everyone.
If you are planning for several travellers, remember that each passport and each face photo must be matched to the correct person.
- One ETA per traveller
- Babies and children are included
- Match each ETA to the right passport
Applying for someone else
You can apply for a child, but the app and online service work differently
GOV.UK lets you apply for someone else. If you use the UK ETA app, the person you are applying for must be with you. If they are not with you, you need to apply online instead.
For the online route, you need a photo of the child’s passport and a photo of the child’s face.
Face scan age rules
The app asks for a face scan only from age 10
The app requires a face scan for someone aged 10 or older. Children aged 9 or younger are not asked to complete the scan in the app.
That still leaves the photo step in place, so you should prepare a clear facial photo even for younger children.
- 10 or older: face scan in the app
- 9 or younger: no app face scan
- Online applications still need passport and face photos
Child photo rules
Babies and young children have a few photo exceptions
The digital photo rules allow some age-based exceptions. Children under 6 do not have to look directly at the camera or keep a plain expression, and children under 1 do not have to have their eyes open.
Babies must be alone in the picture, and they must not be holding toys or using dummies. Supporting hands must not appear in the photo.
Planning ahead
Family decisions may not arrive at the same time
When travellers apply together, the decisions can arrive at different times. That is another reason to apply early and keep each person’s passport and photo together before you start.
If you are unsure whether a child actually needs an ETA, check the nationality and travel rule first rather than assuming family travel creates an exemption.
Frequently asked questions
Questions about UK ETA for children
Does my baby need a separate ETA?
Can I apply for my child on my own?
Does my child need a face scan in the app?
Can a baby hold a toy or dummy in the photo?
Will my family all get the decision at the same time?
Related UK ETA guides