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United Kingdom Visa for France Citizens 2026

e-Visa / eTA

French citizens now need a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before traveling, applied for online or via the UK ETA app, in addition to being visa-free for stays up to 6 months.

Guide last updated September 24, 2026. Always verify with official sources before travel.

What you need

  • Passport valid for the intended duration of the trip (no minimum 6-month rule for EU passports)
  • A valid UK ETA linked to your passport before travel (mandatory as of the phased 2024-2025 rollout for non-visa-national visitors, including EU citizens)
  • Digital photo taken during the ETA application via the UK ETA app or online form
  • Proof of accommodation and return/onward travel may be requested at the border
  • No biometrics collected in advance beyond the photo; standard passport check on arrival
  • Travel health insurance is not mandatory but recommended, as UK healthcare (NHS) is not free for most short-term visitors

Visa types

  • UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA): covers tourism, business visits, transit, and short study, valid for multiple entries over 2 years or until passport expiry (whichever comes first), each stay up to 6 months
  • Standard Visitor visa: not required for French citizens for stays under 6 months once holding a valid ETA
  • Longer stays, work, or study beyond visitor rules require the relevant UK work or study visa, which must be arranged separately before travel

How to apply online

  • Apply via the official UK ETA app or at gov.uk/eta before booking travel or at least before departure
  • Complete the form with passport details, a digital photo, and answer eligibility questions
  • Pay the ETA fee online by card
  • Most applications are approved within minutes to a few hours; some cases take up to 3 working days if further checks are needed
  • The ETA is linked electronically to your passport — no physical document or sticker is issued; carriers and border control check it electronically

Fees & processing time

  • UK ETA fee: GBP 16 (roughly EUR 19 / USD 20) per application as of the current fee schedule
  • Standard processing: usually within minutes, but allow up to 3 working days before travel to account for extra checks
  • No separate service fee since the application is done directly through the official UK government channel
  • No express/priority processing tier currently offered

Tips for France travelers

  • Apply for your ETA well before your trip, ideally as soon as travel dates are confirmed, since airlines will deny boarding without a valid ETA
  • Double-check that your passport number and personal details match exactly what's on your passport when applying, as mismatches are a common rejection reason
  • The ETA does not replace your passport requirement for entry, and you must still meet standard visitor conditions (no work, sufficient funds, onward travel)
  • If transiting through a UK airport without leaving the airside area under the relevant transit rules, check current guidance, as ETA requirements can still apply depending on the route

Official links & resources

Always confirm requirements with government or embassy sources before applying.

This guide is for information only. Visa policies change without notice. Travel Visa Stack is not an immigration authority. Always verify with official government or embassy sources before making travel plans.