Can You Apply for a UK ETA Without Confirmed Accommodation? (2025 Guide)

Introduction

Planning a trip to the United Kingdom is exciting — but it also comes with practical worries. One of the most common questions travelers ask is:

👉 “Do I need confirmed hotel bookings or accommodation details before I apply for a UK ETA?”

The answer might surprise you. In this guide, we’ll break it down step by step so you understand exactly what’s required, what’s optional, and how to avoid mistakes when completing your UK ETA application.

What Is the UK ETA?

The UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) is a digital entry permit required from 2025 for nationals of visa-exempt countries.

It’s designed for short visits of up to 6 months, covering:

• Tourism

• Family visits

• Short-term study

• Business trips

• Transit through UK airports

The application is 100% online, linked to your passport, valid for 2 years (or until your passport expires), and allows multiple entries.

Do You Need Confirmed Accommodation for a UK ETA Application?

No, confirmed accommodation is not required to apply for a UK ETA.

Unlike some visa applications that require hotel bookings or invitation letters upfront, the UK ETA process is simpler. The online form asks for your intended travel details (such as purpose of visit and approximate dates), but it does not require proof of accommodation at the time of application.

What Information Do You Need to Provide Instead?

When filling out your UK ETA application, you will usually be asked for:

• Purpose of visit (tourism, business, family, study, or transit).

• Approximate travel dates (these can be flexible).

• Contact details (such as your email address and sometimes a UK contact if you have one).

Accommodation details may be requested at the UK border as part of routine questioning, but they are not required for ETA approval itself.

What If You Don’t Have a Hotel Yet?

Many travelers like to book flights before finalizing where to stay. This is completely fine. Here’s what you can do:

• Apply for your UK ETA using your planned travel dates.

• Once your ETA is approved, book your accommodation closer to your trip.

• If asked by UK Border Force on arrival, provide the hotel address, Airbnb details, or the home address where you’ll be staying.

When Proof of Accommodation Might Be Needed

While it’s not part of the ETA application itself, you could be asked for accommodation details in these scenarios:

• At the border — immigration officers may ask where you’ll be staying as part of entry checks.

• By your airline — sometimes airlines ask for a contact address in the UK before boarding.

This doesn’t mean you need a paid hotel booking months in advance. Even a flexible reservation or confirmed host address is enough.

Best Practices for a Smooth Application

1. Apply early — don’t wait until the last minute; ETA approvals usually take 48–72 hours.

2. Use accurate travel details — dates should roughly align with your flight plans.

3. Book flexible accommodation — refundable hotel or Airbnb bookings work best if you’re unsure.

4. Keep details handy for arrival — even though not required for the ETA, immigration officers may ask where you’re staying.

Final Thoughts

You can absolutely apply for a UK ETA without confirmed accommodation. The application only requires your personal details, passport information, photo, and travel purpose. Accommodation proof is not a requirement — though you may be asked about it when you arrive in the UK.

The key is simple: apply early, double-check your details, and keep a flexible booking ready closer to your trip. That way, you’ll breeze through the ETA process and enjoy your time in the UK stress-free.

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👉 Ready to start? Begin your UK ETA application today at ETAApplyUK.com and travel with confidence.