France ETA guidance
French citizens and the UK ETA
French passport holders often need a simple checklist before a short trip, family visit or connected travel through the UK, and this guide focuses on the ETA basics.
France is on the current ETA-eligible nationality list, but the ETA is always tied to the passport used for the application and the border journey.
- A government application fee applies
- Apply at least 3 working days before travel
- Each traveller needs their own ETA
Eligibility
What this means for French citizens
This nationality is currently on the UK ETA eligible list for short visits, but the ETA still depends on the passport you use and the purpose of travel.
Traveller guidance
What to check before you apply
French travellers often combine the UK with a wider itinerary, so it is worth checking the ETA first and then aligning the rest of your travel plans.
Passport-specific guidance
Checks that matter on a France–UK itinerary
- French passport holders are on the current ETA national list. The authorisation must match the passport used at the UK border, including journeys by air, rail or ferry.
- If the UK is only a connection, determine whether the itinerary requires UK border control. Current GOV.UK guidance treats landside and qualifying airside transit differently.
- A traveller who is also a British or Irish citizen follows different document rules and should not rely on an ETA linked to the French passport without checking GOV.UK guidance.
Passport
Use the passport you will travel with
Use the original passport you will travel with. The ETA is linked to that passport, so a renewed or replaced passport usually means a new application.
Photo requirements
Prepare a facial photograph that follows GOV.UK rules
Use a clear colour facial photo that is in focus, well lit, taken against a plain light background and not altered with filters or editing.
Fee and timing
Government fee and decision timing
A government application fee applies.
GOV.UK says a decision is usually sent within a day, but travellers should allow up to 3 working days and some cases can take longer. No service can promise a faster government decision.
Validity
How long an ETA normally lasts
A UK ETA normally lasts for 2 years or until the passport used for the application expires, whichever comes first.
Children and family
Families should plan for separate ETAs
Each traveller needs their own ETA, including children and babies.
Independent information
Official sources, clearly identified
ETAApply is an independent travel-information website and is not affiliated with any government.
Source verification
Checked against official UK sources
Last verified: 27 October 2026
- Get an electronic travel authorisation (ETA) to visit the UK — GOV.UK
- Apply for an electronic travel authorisation (ETA) — GOV.UK
- Immigration Rules Appendix Electronic Travel Authorisation — GOV.UK
- Electronic Travel Authorisation factsheet — April 2026 — UK Home Office
- Immigration Rules Appendix ETA National List — GOV.UK
Practical preparation
Use a short checklist before you start
If you are visiting family or planning a short stop in London before another destination, keep the passport details and photo ready before you start.
Frequently asked questions
Questions from French citizens
Does the ETA apply to journeys from France by rail or ferry?
Does a French passenger need an ETA for transit?
What if the traveller is also British or Irish?
Does my child need a separate ETA?
How long should I allow before travelling?
Is ETAApply the UK Government?
Other UK ETA guides