ETA when to apply

this thread with lots of information was active 2 days ago::

https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/england/uk-eta-application-experience

You could apply now, it is good for two years, but it is a quick process. You fill out the form, pay your money, and within minutes to a couple days you are notified of approval.

Only if you have served time (a felony) in the last ten years will you have an issue.

If you think you will be traveling to the UK several times over the next two years or so, then wait a few months, if this is an "only once" trip, apply now, get it out of the way.

My theory was that I will probably simply get a new ETA every two years so I purchased mine right away. Currently about $13 so not a major expense.

My theory was that I will probably simply get a new ETA every two years so I purchased mine right away. Currently about $13 so not a major expense.

This.

I didn't see a reason to wait, got it done and in two years I'll renew.

While they claim it could take up to two days for approval, I got mine in less than 30 seconds.

As stated, unless you have a criminal record or have been refused entry into a European country, you shouldn't have a problem.

I'm going to England in May. I just got mine tonight. It got approved immediately. One less thing that I have to think about.

One point worth noting. The ETA is tied to your passport number. If you need to or are in the process of renewing your passport you should wait until the new one arrives.