The UK Home Office has announced that visitors from 85 visa-exempt nationalities, including the United States, Canada, and France, will be required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before travelling to the United Kingdom from 25 February 2026.
The move marks a major step towards the UK’s goal of a fully digital immigration system and supports the long-term plan for a contactless border. Once enforced, all travellers to the UK, except British and Irish citizens, must hold either an ETA or an eVisa, with carriers required to verify digital permissions prior to boarding.
Since its introduction in October 2023, more than 13.3 million visitors have applied for an ETA, benefiting from quicker checks and smoother entry. The authorisation is mandatory even for passengers transiting through the UK who pass through border control.
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.”
During the initial rollout, ETA requirements were not strictly enforced to give travellers time to adapt, mirroring approaches taken by countries such as the United States and Canada.
Travellers can apply through the official UK ETA app, with a £16 fee and most decisions issued within minutes, although up to three working days may be required for cases needing further checks.
British and Irish citizens, including dual nationals, remain exempt. The government has urged dual British citizens to ensure they hold a valid British passport or certificate of entitlement to avoid boarding issues once enforcement begins in February 2026.
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