From 25 February 2026, the UK makes ETA compulsory for citizens of 85 visa-exempt nations.
Travellers who earlier entered visa-free must now secure digital authorization ahead of their journey.
Airlines and other carriers will check ETA status before boarding, so lack of ETA may deny entry.
The ETA costs £16, and applicants usually receive a decision in minutes, though some may wait up to three working days.
Once granted, an ETA remains valid for two years or until the traveller’s passport expires.
ETA holders can stay in the UK for up to six months per trip, for tourism, business, or short-term study.
British and Irish citizens do not need ETA; dual British citizens are advised to travel on a British passport.
The UK government says ETA improves border security by letting authorities screen passengers before travel.
This rule change advances the UK’s move toward a digital, contactless border system.
The ETA regime marks a shift from on-arrival checks to pre-departure digital clearance across the board.
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