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Beware the ETA website

I believe this is known but it bears repeating, there's an unofficial website called iVisa that will appear first in your Google search, they'll be glad to take your ETA application and then charge you a $90 processing fee. I started down the road with them until I detected a foul odour.

Here's what Google AI has to say about them:

iVisa can be a convenient option for travelers seeking to simplify the visa application process, particularly for those who find government websites difficult to navigate. However, it's crucial to be aware that they are a third-party service charging premium fees, which are often considerably higher than direct applications through official channels. It's recommended to compare iVisa's fees with the official government charges before proceeding and consider if the added convenience is worth the extra cost. Additionally, carefully reviewing the application details is crucial, as some users have reported errors or miscommunications with the service.

Here is what the official UK site has to say:

An ETA costs £16.
Other websites may charge more to apply. Avoid websites that imitate government services.

Posted by
209 posts

When applying for an ETA, always go to the official government website of the country, and download the official app if one exists. I've applied for ETAs for Australia, New Zealand, and UK all in the last few months using this method. And yes, iVisa does always usually appear first in any web search. Don't fall for it!

Posted by
5312 posts

When I Google ETA UK the first to come up is uk-eta.visasyst.c... which I could easily be fooled by if I wasn't aware, the 2nd is Immi-assist.online which has a banner across the top stating it is "not part of any government or agency." The 3rd is the real deal gov.uk.

When I type in UK eta application I get a whole new set of 3rd party sites and ivisa is 3rd, gov.uk is 4th. I guess it depends what you type in your search, but the real sure definitely isn't first.

Posted by
3 posts

Does anyone have a specific link to verify a UK ETA? (I've looked on the site and the smartphone app but don't see one.) How about a phone number to call UK's ETA office? Thank you.

Posted by
1490 posts

Does anyone have a specific link to verify a UK ETA? (I've looked on the site and the smartphone app but don't see one.) How about a phone number to call UK's ETA office? Thank you.

The only way to contact them is through webchat

https://ukimmigration-support-webchat.homeoffice.gov.uk/eta

Ask about electronic travel authorisation (ETA)

Use the ETA webchat if you have a question about electronic travel authorisation (ETA).

We do not give help on the phone.

A new window will open to start a chat with a digital assistant when you select ‘start now’.

If the digital assistant cannot help, you can ask to chat to an ETA adviser during opening hours.

What you cannot do

You will not be able to use the webchat to:

  • get updates on your ETA application
  • make changes to your ETA or application