Italy ETA guidance
Italian citizens and the UK ETA
Italian passport holders can use this guide as a straightforward checklist before tourism, family visits, business travel or short academic plans.
Italy is on the present ETA-eligible nationality list, but the ETA still belongs to the passport you use when you apply and when you travel.
- A government application fee applies
- Apply at least 3 working days before travel
- Each traveller needs their own ETA
Eligibility
What this means for Italian 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
For Italian travellers, it is worth checking the ETA before booking because the passport and photo details are easier to gather early.
Passport-specific guidance
Checks that matter when travelling on an Italian passport
- Italian passport holders are included in the current ETA national list. The ETA is electronic, so the passport number and document used for travel must remain consistent.
- Visitor rules can cover specified tourism, family and business activities, but not every work or study plan. Check the official visa route before relying on an ETA for anything beyond a short visit.
- A new or replacement Italian passport normally means the traveller needs a new ETA because the authorisation remains linked to the earlier document.
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 your Italian trip is part of a family itinerary, keep every traveller's passport details together so the application stays accurate.
Frequently asked questions
Questions from Italian citizens
What happens after an Italian passport is renewed?
Can an Italian visitor use an ETA for study or business?
Can an Italian group share 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