UK ETA guide: what international arrivals need before Gatwick or Heathrow
A practical, current guide to the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation, airport clearance and planning a pre-booked transfer into Brighton, Hove, Lewes and wider Sussex.
The UK ETA is now an enforced digital permission to travel for eligible visitors who do not need a visa. It is not a visa and it does not guarantee entry. The important point for airport pickups is simple: an approved ETA allows you to board, while the time you meet your driver still depends on passport control, baggage and the live conditions inside the terminal.
UK ETA at a glance
| Question | Current official position |
|---|---|
| Who usually needs it? | Eligible visa-free visitors from Europe, the USA, Canada, Australia and many other countries. |
| When should I apply? | Well before travel. Decisions usually arrive within one day but can take up to three working days. |
| Is it a visa? | No. It is permission to travel to the UK. Border Force still decides entry at the border. |
| Can I make several trips? | Yes, while the ETA and linked passport remain valid, subject to the visitor rules. |
| Do children need one? | Yes. Every traveller needs their own permission unless exempt. |
Who does not normally need an ETA?
You do not need an ETA if you are a British or Irish citizen, already hold a UK visa, or have permission to live, work or study in the UK, including settled or pre-settled status. Other exemptions exist, so check the official service for your own circumstances.
Dual British citizens
You cannot obtain an ETA as a British citizen. The government advises travelling with a valid British passport or another passport carrying a certificate of entitlement. Do not wait until airline check-in to resolve this.
Airside transit
You do not need an ETA if you remain airside and do not pass through UK border control. If you collect bags, change terminal landside or enter the UK, check with the airline because an ETA may be required.
Apply correctly in five steps
Does an ETA make Gatwick or Heathrow arrivals slower?
Not by itself. The ETA is checked digitally before travel and is linked to the passport. A correctly approved ETA does not create a separate “ETA desk” in the arrivals hall. However, all passengers remain subject to immigration checks.
| Stage | What can affect your time? | Planning advice |
|---|---|---|
| Passport control | Nationality, eGate eligibility, arriving flight volume and Border Force checks. | Keep your passport ready and follow terminal signage. |
| Baggage reclaim | Aircraft stand, ground handling, checked bags and special items. | Do not promise your driver an exact exit minute. |
| Customs and arrivals | Declarations, inspections and walking distance through the terminal. | Contact the operator once you are through and have your bags. |
| Meeting your driver | Terminal, agreed meeting point and short-stay parking access. | Keep your phone connected and provide the correct flight number. |
Arrival plan for families, students and first-time visitors
Before departure
- Check every traveller's permission separately, including children.
- Confirm the arrival airport, terminal and flight number.
- Save your booking confirmation and operator contact details offline.
- Tell us about large luggage, sports equipment or mobility needs before travel.
After landing
- Go through passport control with the same passport used for the ETA.
- Collect all checked baggage before confirming you are ready.
- Turn on your phone and check messages from the driver or operations team.
- Follow the meeting instructions in your booking confirmation.
For families: Sussex Airports Taxis cannot currently provide child seats. If you require one, bring an appropriate seat and tell us when booking so the correct vehicle space can be considered.
From the airport into Sussex
We provide pre-booked transfers from Gatwick and Heathrow to Brighton, Hove, Lewes, Hassocks, Hurstpierpoint, Burgess Hill, Haywards Heath and surrounding areas. Journey times vary with traffic, roadworks and the final address, so treat any estimate as a planning range rather than a guarantee.
Gatwick arrivals
Gatwick has North and South terminals. Check the terminal against the live flight information. If you arrive at the wrong terminal, the free landside shuttle connects them.
Heathrow arrivals
Heathrow has several active passenger terminals. Always include the flight number because the terminal and meeting plan depend on the arriving service.
Official links worth saving
UK ETA and airport pickup FAQs
How much does a UK ETA cost in 2026?
The official fee is £20 per application. There is no family or group application fee, and each traveller needs their own ETA unless exempt.
How long does an ETA decision take?
GOV.UK says decisions usually arrive by email within one day, but can take up to three working days. Apply before travel and wait for confirmation.
Can I travel while my ETA is still pending?
No. You must receive confirmation that the ETA has been granted before travelling to the UK.
Will my driver know when I clear passport control?
Flight monitoring shows aircraft timing, not the exact moment a passenger exits. Keep your phone available and follow the communication instructions in your booking.
Do I need to print the ETA?
The ETA is digitally linked to the passport used in the application. You only need to present that passport, although keeping the confirmation email accessible can be useful.
Can an ETA be transferred to a new passport?
No. If your passport expires, is lost or is replaced, you need to apply for a new ETA linked to the new passport.
Can Sussex Airports Taxis advise whether my ETA will be approved?
No. We can help with airport transfer planning, but immigration decisions and eligibility are handled only through the official UK government services.
Pre-book your airport transfer into Sussex
Book in advance with your flight number for 24/7 airport transfer planning, flight monitoring and a clear meeting arrangement. Pay cash or card to the driver, or request a payment link.