If you're a citizen of Romania and heading to the United Kingdom, you need to know about the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) process. The eTA simplifies travel to the UK, speeds it up and makes it more secure for eligible travelers. If you're visiting for tourism, business, study or to visit family, follow this step by step guide and eligibility and application requirements to fees and travel hints.
Understanding the UK eTA from Romania
The UK eTA is a new electronic travel authorisation scheme launched by the British government. It enables eligible visitors to travel to the United Kingdom without requirement for traditional visa. For Romanian citizens, this procedure makes traveling easier, particularly for brief stays.
The eTA is stored electronically against your passport and will remain valid for frequent entry for two years or until your passport is due to expire whichever is shorter. It enhances border safety and offers visitors a smooth journey upon arrival in the UK.
Romanian Citizens - Can They Apply for a UK eTA?
Indeed, Romanian citizens are eligible to apply for a UK eTA if they intend short-term visits to the UK for tourism, business purposes, transit, or short-term study. As Romania is a member of the European Union, Romanian visitors have visa-free travel for short-term stays currently, but the UK eTA program makes sure that pre-flight screening is undertaken for security purposes.
In the near future, Romanians and all other visa-exempt travelers will also be required to get a UK eTA in advance of going to the UK. The system will be the same as with the U.S. ESTA or Canada's eTA program.
Eligibility for UK eTA from Romania
You can apply for the UK eTA requirements following:
- Nationality: You should be a Spanish national or hold a legal residence in Spain.
- Purpose of Visit: You should be coming to the UK for tourism, business, or family visits (for less than 6 months).
- Passport Validity: Your passport should be valid for more than 6 months from the date of your planned stay.
- No Criminal History: Applicants with serious criminal history will be denied the eTA.
If you fail to fulfill the criteria, you may have to apply for another kind of visa.
Documents Requirement to Apply for the UK eTA

Applying for the UK eTA from Romania requires only a handful of basic documents. Have them ready, and the application will go faster and smoother:
- A valid Romanian biometric passport
- A recent digital passport photo size
- A current email address to send notifications to
- A debit or credit card to pay for the eTA fee
- Travel information (reason for visit, accommodation, etc.)
These documents must be valid during your application and during your visit to the United Kingdom.
How to Apply for the UK eTA from Romania
Applying for the UK eTA Application from Romania is quick and completely online. Follow these easy steps:
- Complete the Online Form: Enter your personal details, passport number, travel purpose, and other required information.
- Upload Documents: Attach your digital passport photo and passport copy.
- Pay the Application Fee: Use your debit or credit card to pay the eTA fee securely.
- Submit the Application: Review your details and submit.
- Wait for Approval: You willl typically receive your eTA decision via email within 1âââ‰â¬Å3 business days.
UK eTA Fees for Romanian Citizens
Booking flights and packing bags are only two aspects of planning a trip to the UK, other considerations include entry requirements. You will soon require an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) if you are traveling to the UK from a country that does not require a traditional visa for brief visits.
UK eTA Processing Time for Romanian Travelers
- Standard Processing: The majority of ETA applications are typically processed in one to two days. In reality, if the automated checks are successful and there are no red flags, a simple application is frequently approved in a matter of days. Beyond the standard ETA fee, standard processing does not incur additional costs. Therefore, this option is typically ideal if you're applying well in advance of your trip.
- Rush Processing: There is a rush processing option available if you require your ETA result before the regular window. The aim of rush processing is frequently to receive your estimated time of arrival within 6 to 12 hours. If you need peace of mind immediately or have a last-minute trip, this can be helpful. Usually, there is an extra charge for expedited processing. The result is the same: your application receives a higher priority, which causes the speed to increase.
- Super Rush (Emergency) Processing: Super rush processing is an option for travelers who are in a real time crunch. This could promote outcomes in as little as an hour. If you apply in the morning, you might receive your ETA the following day or later that day. Naturally, the premium fee for this level of service is higher. It is intended for use in an emergency.
Validity and Duration of Stay with UK eTA
Here's what to anticipate regarding the duration and applications of your approved ETA:
- Validity Period: A UK ETA is good for two years after it is issued. This implies that you have two years from the day your ETA is accepted to use it to visit the UK. During those two years, you are not required to reapply each time you visit.
- Multiple Entries: The ETA permits multiple entries into the UK during the validity period. As long as each trip satisfies the permitted requirements, you are permitted to visit the UK more than once without having to reapply. Travel is more flexible thanks to this multi-entry feature, which is a significant improvement over the UK's previous single-use Electronic Visa Waiver.
- Stay Limits Per Visit: The maximum stay per visit, which is normally six months for regular visitors, is unaffected by the ETA itself. Therefore, you cannot stay continuously for the full two years even though your ETA is valid. You can travel for up to six months at a time, but after that, you should depart and then return on the same ETA for another visit.
Visiting the UK with Your Approved eTA
You can now travel once your eTA is approved. Here's what to remember:
- Make sure your passport and eTA remain valid during your visit.
- At the airport, show your passport at the electronic eGates or to an officer.
- No paper document is required âââ‰â¬Â your eTA is stored electronically.
- Keep your travel confirmation email handy in case youâââ‰â¢re asked about your eTA status.
Upon arrival, UK border officers may ask brief questions about your travel purpose and duration. Answer honestly and clearly, and youâââ‰â¢ll be welcomed smoothly.
Common Issues to Avoid When Applying for a UK eTA

The majority of travelers make small errors when applying, which may cause delays or rejections. Some of the most frequent mistakes to look out for are as follows:
- Inaccurate passport number is verify again before sending.
- Uncertain passport photo to make sure your image complies with UK standards.
- Inaccurate travel information to be truthful about your itinerary.
- Keep your expired passport valid for at least six months after your stay is over.
- Visitors from Romania can enjoy a quick and easy approval process if they exercise caution.
Advantages of UK eTA for Romanian Citizens
The UK eTA has several benefits to Romanian citizens:
- No trip to the embassy necessary âââ‰â¬Å Apply entirely online.
- Quick entry process at UK airports.
- Convenience of multiple entries within two years.
- Less expensive than regular visas.
- Increased security through online screening.
For tourists, families, and business travelers, the UK eTA is a convenient method of traveling with minimal paperwork.
Reason for Travel Permitted with a UK eTA

With a valid UK eTA, Romanian nationals are permitted to travel for a range of short-term reasons:
- Tourism: Visit London, Edinburgh, Manchester, or other places of interest.
- Business meetings or conferences: Visit for a short event or meeting.
- Transit: Travel through the UK airport on the way to another destination.
- Short courses: Enroll in short courses less than 6 months.
- Visiting family or friends: Spend time with loved ones.
For any other purpose for a long time or work, you will have to apply for a suitable UK visa.
What Happens If Your UK eTA Is Denied?
If your UK eTA application is rejected, don't worry. The rejection typically occurs because of incorrect information, ineligibility, or a security discrepancy. You will be mailed an email detailing the cause of the rejection.
In these situations, you can instead apply for a regular UK visa. Ensure that you rectify any errors and furnish supporting documentation that establishes your true traveling intent.
Last Pieces of Advice Before You Travel to the UK

Here are a few last-minute tips to ensure your trip is smooth:
- Get your eTA at least a week prior.
- Don't ever travel on a different passport than what you provided for your eTA application.
- Make digital copies of your flight itineraries and accommodation information.
- Go through the UK's customs and immigration regulations.
- Bring proof of return or onward travel.
With all that done, you can have a wonderful time in the UK with utter peace of mind.
Conclusion
UK eTA application from Romania is an easy, contemporary, and safe process that gives you access to UK travel, education, and business. The system facilitates easier travel for Romanian nationals with improved border safety. By carefully going through the steps, providing exact details, and applying in good time, you can have a hassle-free trip to the UK with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. How long does it take to get a UK eTA from Romania?
Ans. It typically takes 24 to 72 hours, but apply at least a week before your travel date to be safe.
Q2. How much does a UK eTA cost for Romanian citizens?
Ans. The application fee is ̣̉10 per person, paid online via credit or debit card.
Q3. How long is the UK eTA valid for?
Ans. The UK eTA is valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
Q4. Can I work in the UK with a UK eTA?
Ans. No, the eTA does not permit employment. Youâââ‰â¢ll need a UK work visa to legally work in the country.
Q5. Can I reapply if my eTA is refused?
Ans. Yes. You can either reapply with correct details or apply for a UK Standard Visitor Visa if your eTA is denied.