People who have applied to the EU Settlement Scheme but are still waiting for a decision generally cannot use an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to fly to the UK, according to updated Home Office caseworker guidance. This article is general information only and is not personal immigration advice. Version 33 of the EUSS caseworker guidance, issued on 15 October 2026, folds in the Statement of Changes HC 584, most of which took effect on 8 October.

What travellers should carry instead

Its message for carriers and travellers is that non-visa-national holders of a Certificate of Application — the document issued while an EUSS application is pending — are generally not eligible for an ETA when flying to the UK. Instead of an ETA, carriers are still required to accept a Certificate of Application as proof of permission to board. Travellers present their digital or paper certificate at an eGate or to a Border Force officer on arrival.

The distinction that matters

The distinction matters because an ETA and an EUSS application do different jobs. An ETA is digital permission to travel to the UK for a short visit; it is not a visa and it does not guarantee entry. A Certificate of Application, by contrast, evidences a live EUSS claim. Treating the two as interchangeable could leave a traveller unable to board.

Tighter paperwork checks

The updated guidance also raises the bar for proof from "connecting family members". Anyone unsure whether they need an ETA, or whether their certificate is enough to travel, should check the official GOV.UK ETA guidance and, where the position is unclear, take advice from a regulated immigration adviser before booking. Immigration rules change often, so check the official page before travelling.

Sources: GOV.UK ETA guidance, London Mail.