The world of travel documents is becoming more complex. In addition to traditional visas, travellers now need to understand ETAs, eVisas, ESTAs, and the upcoming EU ETIAS. This guide explains each type, compares them side-by-side, and helps you determine which one you need.
What Is an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation)?
An ETA is a digital pre-screening system for nationals of visa-exempt countries. It is not a visa -- it is an authorisation to travel that is linked electronically to your passport. ETAs were introduced to improve security by screening travellers before they board a flight, without requiring them to go through a full visa application process.
Key Characteristics of ETAs
- For visa-exempt travellers only: ETAs are designed for nationalities that already have visa-free access
- Quick and cheap: Most ETAs cost under $21 and are approved in minutes to hours
- Linked to your passport: No sticker or stamp -- the authorisation is digital
- Multiple entries: Most ETAs allow multiple visits over 2 years
- Short stays only: Typically limited to 90 days per visit
- No embassy visit needed: Applied for entirely online
What Is an eVisa?
An eVisa is a full electronic visa applied for and issued online. Unlike an ETA, an eVisa is a proper visa that replaces the need to visit an embassy or consulate. eVisas are available to travellers who would typically need a traditional visa, providing a more convenient application process.
Key Characteristics of eVisas
- Full visa equivalent: Same legal status as a traditional visa, just applied for online
- More documentation required: Photo uploads, itinerary, financial documents, accommodation proof
- Processing time: 1-7 business days, sometimes longer
- Cost: $20-$100+ depending on the country
- Single or multiple entry: Depends on the country and visa type
- Print required: Many countries require you to print the eVisa approval
ETA vs eVisa vs Traditional Visa: Complete Comparison
| Feature | ETA | eVisa | Traditional Visa |
|---|---|---|---|
| What it is | Pre-screening authorisation | Full visa (online) | Full visa (embassy) |
| For whom | Visa-exempt nationalities | Nationalities needing visas | All nationalities |
| Applied where | Online only | Online only | Embassy/consulate |
| Documents needed | Passport details only | Passport, photos, proof of funds, itinerary | Extensive (may include interview) |
| Processing time | Minutes to 72 hours | 1-7 days | 5-30+ days |
| Cost | $5-$21 | $20-$100+ | $50-$500+ |
| Validity | 2 years (multiple entry) | 30-90 days (varies) | Varies widely |
| Physical document | No (digital) | Print recommended | Sticker/stamp in passport |
| Interview | Never | Rarely | Sometimes required |
Major ETA Programs Around the World
UK ETA
- Cost: GBP 10 (~$13)
- Validity: 2 years, multiple entries
- Stay: Up to 6 months per visit
- Launched: 2024 (phased rollout), fully operational 2025
- Who needs it: All non-visa nationals visiting the UK (except British/Irish citizens)
- Processing: Usually approved within 3 working days, often minutes
US ESTA
- Cost: $21
- Validity: 2 years, multiple entries
- Stay: Up to 90 days per visit
- Launched: 2009
- Who needs it: Citizens of 42 Visa Waiver Program countries
- Processing: Usually instant, up to 72 hours
Canada ETA
- Cost: CAD 7 (~$5)
- Validity: 5 years or until passport expires
- Stay: Up to 6 months per visit
- Launched: 2016
- Who needs it: Visa-exempt foreign nationals flying to/transiting through Canada
- Processing: Usually within minutes
Australia ETA (subclass 601)
- Cost: AUD 20 (~$13)
- Validity: 12 months, multiple entries
- Stay: Up to 90 days per visit
- Who needs it: Passport holders from select countries (mainly Asian and Middle Eastern)
- Processing: Usually within 12 hours
EU ETIAS (Coming 2026)
- Cost: EUR 7 (~$8) -- free for under-18s and over-70s
- Validity: 3 years, multiple entries
- Stay: Up to 90 days in any 180-day period
- Launch: Expected 2026
- Who needs it: Nationals of 60+ visa-exempt countries visiting Schengen Area
- Processing: Expected within minutes to 96 hours
Countries Offering eVisas in 2026
Over 60 countries now offer eVisas. Here are some of the most popular:
$50
$25-$80
$50
$36
$50
$50
$25
$20
$29
$26
Free
$30
$52-$72
$50
$50
$30-$55
Free
$50
Which Do I Need?
Follow this simple decision tree:
- Check if you are visa-free for your destination using our visa checker
- If visa-free: Check if an ETA is required (UK, US, Canada, Australia, soon EU). If so, apply for the ETA online before travel
- If eVisa available: Apply online. This is easier than a traditional visa
- If VOA available: You can get your visa at the border, but consider an eVisa if available for a smoother experience
- If visa required: Apply at the nearest embassy or consulate