The United Kingdom has officially activated its new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, changing how millions of foreign visitors enter the country. The scheme, rolled out from 25 February 2026, affects travellers from 85 countries who previously enjoyed visa-free entry.
Authorities say the ETA is designed to strengthen border security, improve immigration processes, and bring the UK in line with countries like the US, Canada, and Australia.
What Is the UK ETA?
The ETA is a digital travel clearance, linked electronically to a traveller’s passport.
Once approved, it allows multiple entries to the UK over two years, or until the passport expires.
Allowed Activities
- Tourism
- Business visits
- Short-term study
- Visiting friends or family
- Transit through the UK (if crossing the border)
Travellers can stay in the UK for up to six months per visit.
Those needing to work, study long term, or stay longer must still apply for a standard UK visa.
Who Needs an ETA?
ETA Required (From 85 Countries)
Citizens of:
- The United States
- Australia
- Canada
- Gulf nations
- Japan, South Korea, and others
ETA Not Required
- British citizens
- Irish citizens
- Individuals with UK settled or pre-settled status
- Those who already require a visa (their requirements remain unchanged)
- Passengers transiting airside and not going through border security
The UK Home Office says the new rules will now be strictly enforced, after a soft launch beginning in 2023.
How to Apply & What It Costs
Travellers can apply through the UK ETA mobile app available on the Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Application Requirements
- Passport details
- Contact information
- A digital photograph
- Basic eligibility questions
Most applicants receive approval within minutes, though the government recommends applying three business days before travelling.
Application Fee
- £16 currently
- Planned increase to £20
If an application is rejected, there is no appeal, and the person must instead apply for a visit visa.
How the ETA Will Be Checked
All airlines, ferry companies, and rail operators must verify a traveller’s ETA digitally before boarding.
Anyone without a valid ETA will be denied check-in.
Even with an ETA, passengers must still pass UK border control, where entry can be refused for other reasons.
Major Issue: Dual Nationals Affected
A key controversy is the impact on dual nationals, especially those living abroad.
Dual nationals cannot apply for an ETA.
Instead, they must show:
- A British passport, or
- A digital certificate of entitlement proving their right of abode
Many dual nationals have never applied for a UK passport before, as previously they could enter using their other nationality passport.
Document Costs & Delay
- British passport: ~£100
- Certificate of entitlement: £589
- Processing time: several weeks
Some individuals are reportedly stranded abroad, unable to return in time due to delays.
The Home Office insists it has been running public awareness campaigns since 2023, and issued notices for dual nationals since October 2024.
How UK ETA Compares With Other Countries
| Country | System | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Canada | eTA | 7 CAD (£3.78) |
| United States | ESTA | $40.27 (£29.75) |
| United Kingdom | ETA | £16 (soon £20) |
The UK fee sits between Canada’s cheaper system and the more expensive US ESTA.
Conclusion
The UK’s ETA marks one of the biggest changes to British border policy in years.
While intended to modernise immigration, the rules have created challenges for dual nationals and travellers unaware of the new requirement.
As global travel rules continue to evolve, the UK aims to align with international standards while tightening security measures.