A warning has been issued to visitors from 85 countries – including the United States, Canada and France – that they will not be able to legally travel to the UK next year without an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).
From February 25, 2026, international visitors will be required to obtain digital permission to enter the UK through either an ETA or an eVisa.
According to updated advice shared by the Home Office to the UK Government website, passengers are warned airlines will be carrying out checks before they are due to travel.
The move comes amid plans to digitise the immigration system and pave the way for a contactless UK border in years to come.
Since the launch of ETA in October 2023 – which is now part of a fundamental part of travel – more than 13.3 million visitors have successfully applied.
But while ETA was being rolled out, the rules were somewhat relaxed to give visitors enough time to adjust to the new system.
Other countries, such as the United States and Canada, also took the same initiative when introducing new travel schemes.
To apply for an ETA, simply download the official UK ETA app and fill out your details. The cost for each application is £16.
From February 25, 2026, visitors from 85 countries will need to obtain digital permission to enter the UK through either an ETA or an eVisa – or face being denied entry
While most applicants receive a decision in minutes, the government recommends allowing three working days to account for the number of cases that require additional review.
British and Irish citizens – including dual citizens – are exempt from needing an ETA, though the British government strongly urges dual British citizens to ensure they have a valid British passport or certificate of entitlement from February 2026, to avoid issues with being denied boarding when travelling to the UK.
Mike Tapp, Minister for Migration and Citizenship, said: ‘ETAs give us greater power to stop those who pose a threat from setting foot in the country and gives 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.’
