Rumors have been circulating on social media claiming that the UK has abolished visa requirements for ASEAN countries. The reality is more nuanced.
The UK has introduced the ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) system, but not all ASEAN countries automatically qualify for visa-free travel.
Here is the official update every traveler should know.
What Is the UK ETA?
The ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) is an electronic travel clearance system introduced by the UK Home Office in October 2023.
Starting 25 February 2026, ETA becomes mandatory for all visa-exempt travelers entering the UK.
- Fee: £16 (around USD 22)
- Validity: 2 years, multiple entry
- Maximum stay: up to 6 months
- Application: via official UK government website or app
- Processing time: usually within 72 hours
- Purpose: tourism, business, and transit
Which ASEAN Countries Can Use ETA?
Currently, only a few ASEAN countries are included in the list of 85 visa-exempt countries eligible for ETA, while most others still require a standard visa.
Eligible for ETA
- Singapore (already visa-exempt, now requires ETA)
- Brunei (visa-exempt, requires ETA)
- Malaysia (visa-exempt, requires ETA)
Still Require a Standard Visa
- Indonesia (Standard Visitor Visa required)
- Vietnam (visa required)
- Thailand (visa required)
- Philippines (visa required)
- Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar (visa required)
- Timor-Leste (visa required)
Update for Indonesia
Many have hoped Indonesia would be added to the UK visa-exempt list, but there has been no official change from the UK Home Office.
As of May 2026, Indonesian citizens still require a Standard Visitor Visa to enter the UK.
- Visa validity: 6 months from chosen start date
- Fee: £127 for single entry
- £480 for 2-year multiple entry
- Biometrics required at VFS Jakarta or Surabaya
- Processing time: around 3 weeks (standard), priority available
- Financial and accommodation documents required
ETA vs Visa: What’s the Difference?
It is important to understand the difference between ETA and a conventional visa. ETA is not a visa, but a pre-screening authorization for visa-exempt countries.
- ETA: for visa-exempt travelers, fully online and simple
- Visa: for non-exempt countries, requires physical appointment
- ETA is faster and cheaper
- Visa requires more documentation
- Final entry decision is made by immigration officers
How Indonesians Can Apply for a UK Visitor Visa
For Indonesian travelers planning to visit the UK, the application process is structured and can be prepared in advance.
- Apply online via the official gov.uk visa portal
- Pay visa fee by credit card
- Book biometric appointment at VFS Global Indonesia
- Prepare documents: passport, photo, bank statement
- Include employment proof, itinerary, and accommodation
- Wait for decision (around 3 weeks)
Required Documents
To improve approval chances, complete documentation is essential.
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months)
- Digital photo meeting UK visa standards
- Financial proof: 6 months bank statements
- Employment letter and payslips
- Travel itinerary and hotel bookings
- Round-trip flight booking (dummy booking accepted)
- Sponsor letter (if applicable)
Visa-Exempt Countries Eligible for ETA
The full list of ETA-eligible visa-exempt countries includes most of Europe, parts of Asia, the Americas, and the Pacific:
- Europe: EU countries, Norway, Switzerland, Iceland
- North America: USA, Canada, Mexico
- Asia Pacific: Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Australia, New Zealand
- Middle East: UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar
- Southeast Asia: Singapore, Brunei, Malaysia
- Others: Israel, Turkey, several Caribbean countries
What If You Already Hold a UK Visa?
If you already hold a valid UK visa, you do not need to apply for an ETA.
- Valid visa = entry allowed without ETA
- Indefinite Leave to Remain = no ETA required
- Pre-settled or settled status = no ETA required
- British passport holders = no ETA required
Final Takeaway for Travelers
As of May 2026, most ASEAN citizens still require a standard visa to enter the UK. Only Singapore, Brunei, and Malaysia benefit from visa-exempt status with ETA requirements.
For travelers from Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, and other ASEAN countries planning a UK trip, it is important to prepare a standard visa application with complete documentation.
Always check official updates on gov.uk and VFS Global websites before planning your trip to ensure the most accurate and up-to-date information.
