Entered the Wrong Passport Info on your UK ETA? Modify before Approval or Submit a New Application Quickly

If you just realized there’s a typo on your UK ETA application, you aren't alone. Whether it’s a flipped digit in your passport number or a misspelled middle name, these small errors can lead to big headaches at the airport.

Since the UK ETA is digitally connected to your passport, even a tiny mismatch can prevent you from boarding. Here is the straightforward, human-friendly way to handle it.

Can you “edit” your application?

The short answer is: No. Once you hit "submit" on the official UK government site, you cannot go back and edit your passport details.

• If your application is pending: You can’t change it. The government will process the data you sent.
• If your application is approved: An approval with the wrong passport number is essentially useless because it won’t match your document when you scan it at the gate.

The Fix: You’ll need to submit a new application with the correct information.

What to expect: correcting ETA errors in 2026

Most eligible visitors now need an ETA and decisions typically arrive quickly, yet errors still carry costs and risk. As of January 30, 2026, the application fee is £16, and official guidance says decisions usually come within a day, though you should allow up to 3 working days. We advise acting immediately when you spot a mistake, because incorrect records can cause delays and impact your travel plans.

Common challenges from wrong passport info

Typical issues include mis-typed passport numbers, letter O versus zero confusion, swapped issue and expiry dates, truncated names, or uploading a blurry passport image. We also hear about last-minute passport renewals after an ETA approval. 

Frequent mistakes that derail UK ETA checks

• Wrong passport number or check digit due to manual entry
• Name mismatch with the passport’s machine-readable zone
• Old passport used during application, then traveling on a new one
• Expiry or issue dates flipped, especially with non‑US date formats
• Low-quality passport photo page upload that cannot be read reliably

How to resolve incorrect passport info for your UK ETA

You can head back to the official UK government app or website and start a fresh application.

• Cost: £16 (non-refundable).
• Timeline: Usually processed within 24 hours, but give yourself 3 working days to be safe.
• The Risk: You’re essentially doing the same thing again. If you made a mistake once, be extremely careful to double-check every character before paying the second time.

Final Advice: Don’t Wait

Don't wait for the government to "reject" your first application. If you know the passport number is wrong, that ETA will never work for you. Reapply immediately, through the official app to make sure you have a valid "green light" before you head to the airport.

FAQs about fixing UK ETA passport errors

Can I change the passport details on my ETA after submitting the application?

Unfortunately, no. Once your application is sent off to the UK government, the "edit" button disappears. Because your ETA is digitally locked to the specific passport number you entered, any mistake—even a small one—means the authorization won't work at the airport. Our best advice? Don’t wait for a rejection. If you’ve spotted a major error, it’s usually fastest to just submit a fresh, correct application right away.

What if my ETA was approved but I renewed or replaced my passport?

You’ll need to apply for a new ETA. Think of your ETA and your passport as a "matched set." If you show up at the border with a new passport that has a different number than the one on your ETA approval, the system won't be able to find your permission to enter. It’s always best to apply for your ETA after you have the passport you actually plan to travel with.

How long will a new ETA application take after I correct the details?

Most people get their decision in a few hours, but the official word is to allow up to 3 working days. If you’re fixing an error, apply as soon as you realize the mistake to give yourself a safety buffer. Keep a close eye on your email (and your spam folder!) for that 16-digit reference number.

Do I need to cancel my first submission before reapplying with correct details?

There’s no need to wait or try to find a cancellation button. Since the £16 fee is non-refundable anyway, the most practical move is to simply submit a new, accurate application. The UK system will prioritize the most recent, correct info linked to your passport, ensuring you're cleared for boarding.

Will an incorrect passport number on my ETA prevent boarding?

It very likely will. Airlines and ferry staff use automated systems to scan your passport and "ping" the UK’s database. If your passport number is 12345 but your ETA says 12354, the system will return a "No Authorization" result. To avoid being turned away at the gate, make sure every character on your ETA matches your passport exactly.