UK ETA for Brazilians 2026: £20 Fee & How to Apply

Do Brazilian Citizens Need a Visa for the UK?

No traditional visa is required, but since 8 January 2025, Brazilian citizens must obtain a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before traveling to the United Kingdom.

The UK ETA is not a visa — it is a simpler digital authorization similar to the US ESTA or the upcoming European ETIAS. Most applications are approved within minutes.

Key facts:

• Fee: £20 (increased from £16 on 8 April 2026)
• Validity: 2 years or until passport expires
• Multiple entries allowed
• Max stay: 6 months per visit
• Apply online or via the UK ETA app

Since 25 February 2026, carriers run automated permission-to-travel checks at check-in. Travelers without a valid ETA will receive a "no-board" message and be denied boarding.

How to Apply for the UK ETA

Online Application (GOV.UK)

1. 1Visit the official UK ETA page
2. 2Have your Brazilian passport ready
3. 3Take or upload a clear passport photo
4. 4Provide basic personal information
5. 5Pay £20 by credit/debit card
6. 6Receive confirmation via email

UK ETA App

The official UK ETA mobile app is also available:

• Download from the App Store or Google Play
• Scan your passport using your phone's NFC reader
• Take a selfie for identity verification
• Complete application and pay

Processing Time

• Most applications: Approved within minutes
• Manual review: Up to 3 business days
• Recommendation: Apply at least 3 business days before travel

UK ETA Details

What You Can Do on a UK ETA

• Tourism — sightseeing, visiting friends and family
• Business — meetings, conferences, negotiations (no employment)
• Short-term study — courses up to 6 months
• Medical treatment — private medical procedures
• Transit — passing through the UK to another destination (airside transit at Heathrow/Manchester without crossing border control is currently ETA-exempt under a temporary exemption)
• Events — attending sports events, concerts, etc.

What You Cannot Do

• Work — any paid or unpaid employment
• Live permanently — the ETA is for temporary visits only
• Access public funds — no benefit entitlements
• Study beyond 6 months — requires a Student visa

Documents for UK Border

While the ETA is linked electronically to your passport, carry:

• Valid Brazilian passport
• Return or onward flight booking
• Proof of accommodation
• Evidence of financial means for your stay
• Details of your plans in the UK

UK border officers may ask about your visit purpose, accommodation, and return plans.

UK vs. Schengen: Key Differences for Brazilians

Traveling to the UK from Europe

Many Brazilians visit the UK as part of a broader European trip. Keep in mind:

• You need both a UK ETA and (eventually) ETIAS for separate entry to each
• Time in the UK does not count toward your Schengen 90-day limit
• Budget for separate entry requirements and fees
• Flights between Schengen and UK involve border checks in both directions

Tips for Brazilian Travelers to the UK

1. 1Apply for ETA before booking — without it, you cannot board your flight since February 2026
2. 2Fee recently increased — the UK ETA fee increased from £16 to £20 on 8 April 2026
3. 36 months is generous — the UK allows much longer stays than Schengen (90 days)
4. 4No interview or biometrics — the ETA is a simple online application
5. 5Link to passport — the ETA is digital and linked to your passport number. If you renew your passport, you need a new ETA
6. 6Transit rules differ by type — landside transit (passing through UK border control) requires an ETA. Airside transit at Heathrow or Manchester without crossing border control is currently exempt, but the Home Office describes the exemption as temporary — check the rules shortly before travel
7. 7NHS not included — UK medical care is not free for visitors. Get travel insurance

FAQs

Is the UK ETA the same as a visa?

No. The ETA is a simpler electronic authorization — no embassy visit, no interview, no document submission. It is processed online in minutes.

Can I apply for a UK ETA at the airport?

No. You must have an approved ETA before check-in. Airlines will deny boarding without one since February 2026.

What if my ETA application is denied?

Denials are rare for Brazilian citizens. If denied, you would need to apply for a Standard Visitor Visa (£135, more complex process). The denial reason will be communicated.

Does a UK ETA cover Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland?

Yes. The UK ETA covers England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland — the entire United Kingdom.

Can I extend my UK stay beyond 6 months?

Extensions are possible in limited circumstances. Apply before your current permission expires through the UK government website.

Do children need a UK ETA?

Yes, all travelers — including children — need an ETA. Parents or guardians can apply on their behalf.