The United Kingdom has announced that from February 25, 2026, travellers from 85 visa-exempt countries will be required to obtain a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before entering the country. This new measure applies to visitors from countries including the United States, Canada, Japan, and France. The ETA is a digital travel permit designed to streamline entry for short-term visitors while enhancing border security.
What the UK ETA Is and Why It’s Becoming Mandatory
The UK ETA functions like a digital travel permit, similar to systems used in other countries (for instance, the U.S. ESTA or Canada’s eTA). It is designed to cover tourism, business, or transit visits, allowing travellers to enter the UK without applying for a full visa, provided they are eligible under this scheme.
Since its initial rollout in 2023, the ETA had been in a transitional “soft‑enforcement” phase. But as of late February 2026, that grace period ends. From that point forward, airlines and travel operators will be required to verify that every passenger from the listed countries holds a valid ETA before boarding a flight to the UK.
According to official UK government sources, the ETA requirement is intended to give immigration officials greater precision in pre‑entry screening. The digital check helps filter travellers who may pose higher risk while facilitating faster entry for legitimate passengers. Since the program’s inception in October 2023, more than 13 million applications have reportedly been submitted, reflecting strong uptake and growing reliance on the system.
Countries Covered by the ETA Requirement
Beginning in February 2026, citizens and passport holders from the following 85 countries and territories will need to hold a UK ETA before travelling:
Andorra; Antigua & Barbuda; Argentina; Australia; Austria; Bahamas; Bahrain; Barbados; Belgium; Belize; Brazil; Brunei; Bulgaria; Canada; Chile; Costa Rica; Croatia; Cyprus; Czech Republic; Denmark; Estonia; Finland; France; Germany; Greece; Grenada; Guatemala; Guyana; Hong Kong; Hungary; Iceland; Israel; Italy; Japan; Kiribati; Kuwait; Latvia; Liechtenstein; Lithuania; Luxembourg; Macao; Malaysia; Maldives; Malta; Marshall Islands; Mauritius; Mexico; Micronesia; Monaco; Nauru; Netherlands; New Zealand; Nicaragua; Norway; Oman; Palau; Panama; Papua New Guinea; Paraguay; Peru; Poland; Portugal; Qatar; Romania; Saint Kitts & Nevis; Saint Lucia; Saint Vincent & the Grenadines; Samoa; San Marino; Saudi Arabia; Seychelles; Singapore; Slovakia; Slovenia; Solomon Islands; South Korea; Spain; Sweden; Switzerland; Tonga; Tuvalu; United Arab Emirates; United States; Uruguay; Vatican City.
These countries encompass a wide range of regions from Europe to Oceania, the Americas, and Asia, underlining the UK’s aim to manage visa‑free travel more consistently.
How to Apply for the UK ETA
Where to Apply
Travellers can apply for the ETA via the official UK ETA website or through the UK ETA mobile app, available on both iOS and Android.
Cost
The fee to process each ETA application is £16 per person.
Timing and Processing
Most ETA applications are approved in just a few minutes, but in some instances, additional background checks may be required. As a precaution, applicants are strongly advised to submit their ETA request at least three days before travel.
Validity
Once approved, the ETA is electronically linked to the traveller’s passport. It will permit multiple short-term visits, as long as the traveller complies with the conditions of the ETA scheme.
What Travellers Should Know
The ETA is not a full visa but a permit for short-term entry (tourism, business, or transit).
A valid ETA does not guarantee entry: immigration officers at the border still have the discretion to refuse admission.
The ETA scheme strengthens pre-entry screening, but passengers must still present their passport upon arrival.
Incomplete or incorrect ETA applications may delay travel, so travellers should carefully check details before submission.
Since airline staff will check for valid ETAs before boarding, failing to obtain one in advance may lead to denied boarding.
Implications and Impact
This policy shift signals a more proactive and modern approach by the UK government to manage temporary travel. By making the ETA mandatory for visa‑exempt countries, the UK aims to strengthen immigration control through digital pre‑screening, reducing risk without significantly burdening low-risk travellers.
For airlines and travel agents, this change introduces operational responsibilities: verifying ETAs during check‑in becomes part of pre‑boarding procedures. Travel companies will need to educate and possibly adjust systems so that travellers do not face boarding denials due to lack of authorization.
From a traveller perspective, the requirement is not overly burdensome in terms of cost or process, particularly compared to applying for a visa. However, the government’s enforcement of this system highlights the importance of planning: travellers who assume “visa-free” entry means no prior action risk disruption to their travel plans.
Pro Tips
Apply Early: Even though most ETAs are processed in minutes, unexpected checks can delay approval. Applying at least 72 hours before departure ensures you’re covered.
Use the Official Platform: Always apply via the designated UK ETA portal or app, not third‑party websites, to avoid scams and extra fees.
Double‑Check Your Passport: Because your ETA is electronically linked to your passport, ensure your passport details (including expiration date) are accurate before submitting.
Save Confirmation: After obtaining your ETA, save the confirmation on your phone and e-mail it to yourself. Having a screenshot or PDF ensures you can access it, even without internet.
Stay Informed: Travel‑policy rules can change. Check for any updates from the UK’s immigration authorities or your airline before you book or depart, especially as the February 2026 deadline approaches.
Starting February 25, 2026, the UK’s ETA requirement for 85 previously visa-exempt countries will mark a significant shift in how the country manages short-term visitors. With a simple online or mobile app application, a £16 fee, and a typically swift approval process, the ETA offers a practical mechanism for balancing security and convenience.
While this policy may demand a small adjustment for travellers accustomed to visa-free entry, it ultimately brings clarity and order: no more last-minute surprises at the airport, no more uncertainty about who will be allowed to board. The UK ETA system represents a forward-thinking approach to border security, one that protects national interests and makes short-term travel more predictable for millions.
By understanding the requirement, applying in good time, and staying up to date on entry rules, travellers can be fully prepared for this new entry process. Visit Gov.uk for more information on this development.
