The United Kingdom is set to introduce a major change to its border procedures, making advance digital permission a mandatory requirement for most visitors. This is as per the latest . Beginning 25 February 2026, travellers from 85 nationalities, including the United States, Canada, and France, who usually do not need a visa will no longer be able to legally travel to the UK without an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).



This move marks a significant step in the UK’s transition toward a fully digital immigration system and supports the government’s goal of establishing a contactless UK border in the future.

A mandatory pre-travel requirement




Once this rule comes into force, every traveller coming to the UK will need digital permission through either an ETA or an eVisa. Airlines and other carriers will be responsible for checking passengers before departure. The UK Government emphasises that this shift is designed to strengthen border control while improving the overall travel experience.



Since the ETA programme launched in October 2023, more than 13.3 million visitors have successfully obtained authorisation. The system has already become a routine part of travel for visitors, including those taking connecting flights and passing through UK passport control.



With regard to this, Minister for Migration and Citizenship, Mike Tapp, highlighted that ETAs give the UK “greater power to stop those who pose a threat from setting foot in the country” and provide a clearer understanding of immigration flows. He also stressed the benefits for travellers, noting that digitisation supports “a more seamless travel experience” for the millions who enter the UK each year.



During its rollout phase, ETA requirements were not strictly enforced to allow visitors time to adjust, a similar approach taken by countries such as the United States and Canada when implementing their own systems.



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How ETA works

Applying for an ETA is described as quick and simple, completed through the official UK ETA app. The fee is £16, and while most applicants receive an automatic decision within minutes, travellers are advised to allow up to 3 working days in case additional review is needed.



An ETA allows travel to the UK for tourism, visiting family, or certain other purposes, for stays of up to six months. However, an ETA does not guarantee entry; border officials still make the final decision.



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Who does not need an ETA

The requirement does not apply to:



British and Irish citizens, including dual citizens



Individuals with permission to live, work, or study in the UK



Travellers transiting through a UK airport without passing border control



Holders of a British Overseas Territories citizen passport



Holders of a British National (Overseas) passport



Individuals living in Ireland who enter the UK from Ireland, Guernsey, Jersey, or the Isle of Man



Children on the France–UK school trip travel information form



People exempt from immigration control or not required to obtain entry permission



Dual citizens with British or Irish nationality cannot apply for an ETA and must instead show a valid British passport, Irish passport, or another passport containing a certificate of entitlement.



For travellers from countries that require a visa, they must continue to obtain a visa before travelling.