Passport Renewed: Does Your UK ETA Still Work?
If you just renewed your passport, your existing UK ETA is no longer valid for travel — even if it hasn't expired yet. A UK ETA is linked to the specific passport number it was issued against. A new passport means a new number, and that means a new application. It's one of the most-missed gotchas in travel paperwork, especially for families who renew passports on different schedules.
The rule: ETA follows the passport number, not you
When you apply for a UK ETA, it's tied to the passport number you entered. The system doesn't know your name, your nationality in a portable sense, or your history of safe travel. It knows a specific string of characters. The moment that string changes — which is what happens when you get a new passport — the ETA tied to the old number becomes invalid for travel.
Scenario 1: You renewed and had an ETA on the old passport
The ETA on your old passport is invalid for travel on your new passport. Full stop. Apply for a new ETA with your new passport number. The process is the same as before — £16, about 10 minutes, usually approved within minutes. You can't transfer an ETA from one passport to another.
Scenario 2: You have both passports — old one still valid
Here's a genuine option some people miss: if your old passport hasn't expired and the ETA is still within its 2-year validity window, you can travel to the UK on the old passport with the existing ETA. The catch: many airlines and countries require you to travel on your most recently issued passport, and some check this specifically. Verify with your airline before choosing this route. Also note: you'll need to renew your ETA before the old passport expires.
Scenario 3: Flying soon with a new passport
Apply for a new ETA now. The application takes about 10 minutes and most approvals arrive within minutes. The £16 fee applies again — there is no discount or credit for having previously held an ETA. Apply at least 3 working days before travel to allow time for any additional checks, even if the timeline usually looks much faster.
The kids' passport renewal problem
US passports for children under 16 are valid for only 5 years (adults get 10). Children's passports also tend to be renewed more frequently due to a child growing out of their photo. Each renewal invalidates the ETA on the old passport. For a family who travels to the UK regularly, expect to reapply for children's ETAs more frequently than for adults. Budget the £16 per child and the 10-minute application accordingly.
Find out what your family needs
Four quick questions. Personalised per family member. Tells you exactly what to apply for and when — UK ETA, ETIAS, EES, or nothing.
Take the quizCommon questions
Does renewing my passport cancel my UK ETA?
Effectively yes — your old ETA remains technically valid, but only for travel on the specific passport it was issued against. A new passport number means you need a new ETA.
Can I travel to the UK on my old passport if the ETA is still valid?
Possibly — if your old passport hasn't expired and you're allowed to travel on it. But many airlines require your most recent passport. Verify with your carrier before departure.
How do I get a new UK ETA after a passport renewal?
Apply fresh through gov.uk or the official UK ETA app using your new passport number. Same process, same £16 fee. There's no shortcut or transfer process.
My whole family renewed passports. Do we all need new ETAs?
Yes — every family member whose passport number changed needs a new ETA. Someone who didn't renew (and whose ETA was issued against the current passport) is still fine.