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UK ETA GUIDE

Pending UK ETA: what should you do?

An application awaiting a decision is not necessarily refused. Check email and official follow-up instructions after the announced timeframe.

Information checked against official GOV.UK resources.

How long should you wait?

The UK government says decisions generally arrive within a day, but processing may take up to three working days. Additional review can take longer.

Applications for the same family may receive decisions at different times.

Check the email address used

The decision is communicated by email. Check your inbox and spam folders, and make sure you are looking at the address used to apply.

Keep information that identifies the application and avoid making unnecessary repeat applications.

What should you do after three working days?

If no decision has arrived after the announced timeframe, consult UK Visas and Immigration’s contact instructions for unanswered ETA applications.

A private assistance service cannot speed up the UK authorities’ decision.

Key points

A pending ETA is not necessarily refused. After the announced timeframe, use the official follow-up channels.

Prepare your application with assistance in English

Still need to apply for your ETA? Gather your passport and photo, then start your application. Our team checks your information before submission; the decision rests with the UK authorities.

Start my ETA application

See the online application steps

Official sources

More UK ETA guides