Spain ETA guidance
Spanish citizens and the UK ETA
Spanish passport holders can use this page to check the ETA basics for city breaks, family visits, work meetings and other eligible short trips to the UK.
Spain is currently on the ETA-eligible nationality list, but your ETA is still linked to the passport you use in the application.
- A government application fee applies
- Decision usually within a day, up to 3 working days
- Each traveller needs their own ETA
Eligibility
What this means for Spanish 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
Spanish travellers often plan a mix of tourism, family time and business days in the UK, so it helps to check the ETA well before the trip.
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 usually sends a decision by email within a day, but it can take up to 3 working days. No application 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.
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.
Practical preparation
Use a short checklist before you start
If you have a second passport, choose the one you will actually carry and use that same document throughout the process.
Frequently asked questions
Questions from Spanish citizens
Do Spanish citizens need to check ETA rules before a UK trip?
Can I use a second passport?
What happens if my passport expires?
Does my child need a separate ETA?
How long should I allow before travelling?
Is ETAApply the UK Government?
Does an ETA guarantee entry?
Other UK ETA guides