Overall, it has been a while since the UK started implementing its Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system. Still, many travelers may still be confused about how it works and impacts existing UK residents. In particular, many may wonder, “Does having Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) status affect whether you need a UK ETA or not?”
In this article, we explore its implications so you can avoid common mistakes and prevent travel delays.
What Is ILR?
To clarify, ILR refers to permanent residency in the UK. Specifically, it grants the right to live, work, and access public services without time limits.
Think of it as “settled status.” Correspondingly, holders can leave and return freely, but must avoid long absences to maintain it.
Note that the indefinite leave to remain does not expire, but the proof of status can. Hence, paper stamps are outdated. Currently, the Home Office now issues digital records instead.
With ILR, you are not a visitor. Instead, you are a resident with deep rights. As one lawyer notes:
“ILR is the golden ticket of UK immigration.”
Hence, that status matters when looking at ETA requirements.
Understanding the UK ETA
Specifically, the UK ETA is a new pre-travel check. In fact, it works just like the US ESTA or Canada’s eTA.
Note that it is not a visa. Instead, it is an entry permission for visitors staying up to six months.
Key facts about ETA:
- Cost: Government fee rising to £16 in April 2025.
- Validity: Two years, or until your passport expires.
- Purpose: Strengthen border security and track arrivals.
- Rollout: Began in October 2023 for Gulf nationals. Expanded to more travelers in 2025.
By 2025, almost all visa-free travelers to the UK already need an ETA. In particular, this includes EU citizens. But there are important exemptions.
Who Does Not Need a UK ETA?
Overall, the UK government sets clear exemptions. Correspondingly, you do not need an ETA if you are:
- A British citizen.
- An Irish citizen.
- A person with a valid UK visa.
- Someone with permission to live, work, or study in the UK.
Meanwhile, that last category includes:
- ILR holders.
- Pre-settled or settled status holders under the EU Settlement Scheme.
- Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) holders with long-term visas.
Hence, the official guidance is direct:
“If you have permission to live in the UK, you do not need an ETA.” (GOV.UK, 2025)
This confirms the answer: ILR holders are exempt.
Why ILR Holders Are Exempt
To clarify, the ILR is not temporary permission. Rather, it is permanent residency. As such, it makes the ETA irrelevant.
Moreover, the ETA is designed for short-stay visitors. Hence, ILR holders have already cleared deeper checks and secured the right to remain. Correspondingly, border systems can verify indefinite leave to remain digitally through your UKVI account and linked passport details.
In short, ETA fills a gap for visitors, which the ILR already fills for residents.
Or as one immigration consultant puts it:
“ETA checks visitors. ILR checks residents. You never need both.”
Practical Advice for ILR Holders
Generally, even though you are exempt, preparation matters.
- Link your ILR to your passport. If you renew your passport, then update your UKVI account. Corespondingly, this prevents confusion at border checks.
- Use eGates when possible. ILR holders can usually pass through automated eGates with minimal checks.
- Keep your digital status accessible. Carry a printed share code or screenshot for peace of mind.
- Replace old stamps. Although Paper ILR stamps are still valid proof, the UK government is urging residents to apply for an eVisa.
Notably, for permanent residents with proof in an old or expired passport, they must secure a “no time limit” application.
“Some longstanding residents of the UK secured permanent residence rights before residence permits were introduced,” the UK Parliament has noted. “Their proof of these rights would be a sticker or stamp in an old passport.”
“Replacing this paper document with an eVisa is not compulsory as such, but the Home Office is encouraging people to do so. People in this position cannot simply set up a UKVI account; there is a separate process known as a ‘no time limit’ application.”
Common ILR Cases
What if I apply for an ETA anyway?
You may spend time and money, but no harm done, as the system should confirm if your ETA is unnecessary.
What if I only have an old ILR stamp?
If you have an old ILR stamp, then you may face delays as the government is moving to digital eVisas. You may apply for digital proof through the “No Time Limit” route.
What if I’m away from the UK for years?
If you spend over two years abroad, ILR may lapse. In that case, you cannot rely on ILR for re-entry.
Does ILR protect against all checks?
No. Border Force can still question you. But your ILR removes the ETA requirement entirely.
Applying for the UK ETA
In summary, the ETA application is simple and entirely online. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Visit the EVS platform. Notably, it simplifies the ETA application process so you can avoid going through complex visa processes.
At EVS, your personal and travel information remains safe and secure with its strict data protection regulations. Moreover, it provides you with expert guidance and seamless support to ensure a stress-free application journey.
Step 2: Upload a passport photo. It must have a plain, light-colored background without any shadows or objects behind you.
Step 3: Upload a scan or photo of your passport information page. Ensure the full passport photo page is inside the frame, including the two lines of numbers and letters at the bottom. Additionally, the passport must be valid for at least six months upon entering and exiting the UK.
Step 4: Provide your personal information:
- Contact details
- Home address
- Employment information
- Citizenship information
- Criminal history, if any
Overall, make sure that the information you provide matches what is on your passport.
Step 5: Review and confirm the information on your application. In particular, you can pay using suitable electronic payment methods such as Apple Pay, Google Pay, credit card, or debit card.
Step 6: Pay the application fee.
Step 7: Receive your UK ETA. Next, you will receive an email with the decision. The authorization will be linked to your passport digitally.
Once approved, the ETA is valid for multiple visits over a two-year period, or until your passport expires. Because mistakes can delay approval, make sure to triple-check all entries before you submit.
Ready to get started with your application? Then click the button below to obtain your ETA.
Why Clarity Matters
Over 6 million people hold ILR or settled status in the UK. So, if even a fraction wrongly apply for ETAs, millions of pounds could be wasted.
Overall, clear guidance prevents stress. It ensures ILR holders know their rights and avoid unnecessary paperwork.
The bigger picture: ETA strengthens borders. ILR secures residency. Both aim to balance control and fairness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does ILR expire?
The status itself does not expire. But old paper stamps must be upgraded to digital proof.
What if my passport changes?
If your passport changes, then update your UKVI account to link your ILR to the new passport.
Do I need to do anything if I have indefinite leave to remain?
If you believe that you have ILR status but do not have a supporting document as proof, then you may make a no time limit application. This comes in eVisa form and confirms your status.
You are also free to travel and stay outside the UK, Ireland, or Crown Dependencies but for no more than 2 years.
Does having indefinite leave to remain status mean I’m a British citizen?
No, it does not. While the ILR allow holders to live, work, and study in the UK, only British citizens can have full political rights.
Can I apply for a British passport after obtaining ILR status?
Yes. You must wait at least 12 months before you are able to apply for British citizenship. Once approved, you can then obtain a British passport.
Which countries are eligible for the travel authorization?
In particular, business travelers from the following countries can apply for an ETA:
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Argentina
- Australia
- The Bahamas
- Bahrain
- Barbados
- Belize
- Botswana
- Brazil
- Brunei
- Canada
- Chile
- Costa Rica
- Grenada
- Guatemala
- Guyana
- Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (including British National overseas)
- Israel
- Japan
- Kiribati
- Kuwait
- Macao Special Administrative Region
- Malaysia
- Maldives
- Marshall Islands
- Mauritius
- Mexico
- Federated States of Micronesia
- Nauru
- New Zealand
- Nicaragua
- Oman
- Palau
- Panama
- Papua New Guinea
- Paraguay
- Peru
- Qatar
- Samoa
- Saudi Arabia
- Seychelles
- Singapore
- Solomon Islands
- South Korea
- St. Kitts and Nevis
- St. Lucia
- St. Vincent and the Grenadines
- Taiwan
- Toga
- Tuvalu
- United Arab Emirates
- United States
- Uruguay
Meanwhile, applications have opened for European travelers visiting the UK on or after April 2, 2025:
- Andorra
- Austria
- Belgium
- Bulgaria
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Czechia
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Monaco
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania
- San Marino
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Vatican City
In addition, this also covers eligible dual citizenships.
Are there non-EU European countries that need a UK ETA?
Yes. Specifically, these include Andorra, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Monaco, Norway, San Marino, Switzerland, and the Vatican City.
