The United Kingdom has announced that from 25 February 2026, visitors from 85 visa-exempt countries — including the United States, Canada, and France — will no longer be able to travel legally to the UK without obtaining an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).

This move marks a significant step toward digitising the UK’s immigration system and lays the foundation for a fully contactless UK border in the future.

Under the new enforcement rules, everyone wishing to enter the UK must hold digital permission in the form of either an ETA or an eVisa. Airlines and other carriers will be required to check that travellers have valid digital authorisation before departure.

Since its launch in October 2023, more than 13.3 million visitors have successfully applied for an ETA, benefiting from faster and smoother entry processes. The ETA system now applies to travellers passing through UK passport control, including those on connecting flights.

Minister for Migration and Citizenship, Mike Tapp, stated:

ETAs give us greater power to stop those who pose a threat from setting foot in the country and give us a fuller picture of immigration.

ETAs are also better for travellers. Digitising the immigration system ensures the millions of people we welcome to the UK every year enjoy a more seamless travel experience.”

While the ETA system was gradually introduced, it was not strictly enforced to allow travellers time to adapt. This approach mirrors travel authorisation systems already implemented by countries such as the United States and Canada.

Applying for an ETA is quick and simple through the official UK ETA app. The fee is £16, and although most decisions are issued automatically within minutes, applicants are advised to allow up to three working days for processing in certain cases.

British and Irish citizens, including dual nationals, are exempt from the ETA requirement. However, dual British citizens are strongly advised to carry a valid British passport or certificate of entitlement to avoid being denied boarding from 25 February 2026 onward.

Reference: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/no-permission-no-travel-uk-set-to-enforce-eta-scheme