Germany ETA guidance
German citizens and the UK ETA
If you are travelling on a German passport, this guide gives you the practical UK ETA points to check before a city break, family visit or business trip.
German passport holders are currently included on the ETA-eligible nationality list, but the ETA is still linked to the passport you use when you apply.
- A government application fee applies
- Apply at least 3 working days before travel
- Each traveller needs their own ETA
Eligibility
What this means for German 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
A lot of German travellers use the ETA for short breaks, family visits or conferences, so it helps to keep the passport and photo ready before you begin.
Passport-specific guidance
Checks that matter when travelling on a German passport
- The verified national list names German passport holders. Eligibility follows the travel document and circumstances, not simply residence in Germany or departure from a German airport.
- Each person in a family or group needs a separate ETA, including babies and children. The application must use the passport that each traveller will carry.
- An ETA supports eligible short visits; it does not replace the official visa route for work, longer study or residence. Use GOV.UK’s visa checker if the planned activity is outside visitor rules.
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 travelling from Germany with a mixed family itinerary, gather everyone's documents in one place so you can apply efficiently.
Frequently asked questions
Questions from German citizens
Does living in Germany decide the ETA route?
Can one German family application cover everyone?
Can a German passport holder work in the UK with an ETA?
Does my child need a separate ETA?
How long should I allow before travelling?
Is ETAApply the UK Government?
Other UK ETA guides