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UK ETA Enforcement Begins: No Permit, No Entry

No Permission, No Travel: UK to Enforce ETA Scheme from February 2026

 

A young couple standing at an airport check-in counter handing their passports to an airline or immigration agent behind a glass partition.
Travelers hand their passports to an agent at an airport counter. Starting February 25, 2026, the UK will strictly enforce the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme for visitors from 85 nationalities who previously did not require a visa.

From February 2026, visitors will be required to obtain advance permission to travel to the United Kingdom.

Travelers from 85 nationalities, including the United States, Canada, and France, who currently do not need a visa, will be unable to legally enter the UK without an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) starting 25 February 2026.

The measure represents a step towards digitising the UK immigration system and aims to support the development of a contactless border in the future.

Enforcement of the requirement will mean that all individuals entering the UK must have digital permission through either an ETA or an eVisa. Carriers will be responsible for checking travel authorisations before departure.

Since its introduction in October 2023, over 13.3 million visitors have applied for an ETA, which has facilitated faster and smoother travel. The ETA system is now an integral part of UK travel, including for visitors on connecting flights who pass through UK passport control.

Official Statement on ETA

Minister for Migration and Citizenship, Mike Tapp, stated that ETAs provide the authorities with greater capability to prevent individuals who pose a threat from entering the country, while offering a more comprehensive overview of immigration.

He added that digitising the immigration system enhances the travel experience for millions of visitors to the UK each year.

During the rollout of the ETA system, enforcement was not strict to allow travelers sufficient time to adapt, following a similar approach used by countries such as the United States and Canada.

Applying for an ETA

Applications for an ETA can be completed through the official UK ETA app. The cost of an ETA is £16. Most applicants receive an automatic decision within minutes, though it is recommended to allow up to three working days for cases requiring additional review.

Exemptions

British and Irish citizens, including those holding dual citizenship, are exempt from obtaining an ETA. The UK government advises dual British citizens to ensure they possess a valid British passport or certificate of entitlement to prevent issues such as being denied boarding when travelling to the UK from 25 February 2026.

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