From February 2026, visitors will no longer be able to travel to the UK without prior digital approval.
Visitors from 85 countries, including the United States, Canada, and France, who currently do not require a visa, will need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to enter the UK legally starting 25 February 2026.
This move is a major step in modernising the UK’s immigration system and sets the stage for a fully contactless border in the future.
Digital permission will be mandatory
Under the new rules, everyone travelling to the UK must have digital permission, either through an ETA or an eVisa. Airlines and other carriers will be required to check that passengers have the necessary approval before they board.
Since its launch in October 2023, over 13.3 million visitors have successfully applied for an ETA, enjoying faster and smoother travel. The ETA has now become an essential part of entering the UK, including for travellers connecting via UK airports and passing through passport control.
Government perspective on eta
Minister for Migration and Citizenship, Mike Tapp, explained:
“ETAs give us greater power to prevent those who pose a risk from entering the country and provide a clearer picture of immigration patterns. At the same time, digital authorisation makes travel easier and more seamless for the millions of visitors we welcome each year.”
During the rollout period, ETA enforcement was relaxed to allow travellers time to adapt, a strategy also used by countries like the United States and Canada for their travel authorisation systems.
Applying for an eta
Applying for an ETA is straightforward via the official UK ETA app, with a fee of £16. Most applications are approved automatically within minutes, though it is recommended to allow up to three working days for cases that need additional review.
Exemptions and dual citizenship
British and Irish citizens, including those holding dual nationality, do not require an ETA. Dual British citizens are strongly advised to ensure they have a valid British passport or certificate of entitlement to avoid boarding issues when travelling to the UK after 25 February 2026.
For professional guidance and personalised advice on travelling to the UK under the new ETA system, LawSentis, an IAA-regulated UK immigration consultancy, offers expert support, from application assistance to travel planning.