From February 25, 2026, the United Kingdom will begin enforcing a new rule requiring travellers from 85 visa-exempt countries to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before entering the country. This change will apply to short-term visitors and is part of the UK government’s broader strategy to digitize its border system and improve immigration controls.
Carriers, including airlines, will be responsible for checking that passengers have valid authorization before boarding.
What Is the ETA?
The ETA is a digital permit for travellers coming to the UK for tourism, short stays, or to visit family. It is not the same as a visa and is only required for those who do not need one.
Eligible nationalities include citizens of the EU, the United States, Canada, Australia, Japan, South Korea, Brazil, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and others.
The ETA system was introduced in phases starting in late 2023. During the initial rollout, enforcement was relaxed to allow people time to understand and adapt to the new rules. This phased approach mirrors similar schemes used in countries like the US and Canada.
UK Government Viewpoint
Migration and Citizenship Minister Mike Tapp said the ETA would improve the government’s ability to manage who enters the country while offering a better travel experience. He explained that the system would help identify security threats in advance and reduce the risk of unwanted arrivals.
He also emphasized that the new digital process would streamline border checks for millions of visitors each year.
Who Is Exempt?
The new rule does not apply to British or Irish citizens. Dual nationals must travel using their British passport or have a certificate of entitlement to avoid boarding issues.
Travellers who are only transiting through the UK and remain in the airport without passing through border control do not need an ETA.
Application Details
The ETA application can be completed entirely online. The application is designed to be fast and user-friendly. Most travellers receive approval within minutes, but it is recommended to apply at least three business days before departure in case further checks are needed.
An ETA stays active for two years, though it will expire earlier if the linked passport is no longer valid.
The UK sees the ETA as a key part of its long-term goal to develop a fully digital, contactless border system that balances security with efficiency for international travellers.