Attention UK Travelers! Major Border Control Overhaul in 2026 – Everything You Need to Know About the Seventeen Pounds Fee and New Travel Rules

Published on December 26, 2025

In 2026, the UK will introduce several important travel law changes that will impact both UK citizens and tourists. These changes are set to revolutionize the way travelers interact with border control systems and enhance the overall security and efficiency of the UK’s travel infrastructure. Among the most significant updates is the £17 Europe Travel Fee, which will apply to UK travelers visiting Schengen area countries. This change will streamline border entry while ensuring greater safety.

Additionally, the Entry Exit System (EES) will be rolled out by April 2026, requiring all travelers, including UK citizens, to provide biometric data at EU borders. This system is designed to speed up border checks and enhance security by capturing fingerprints and photographs.

Furthermore, the introduction of the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for non-British nationals will impact travelers from over 85 countries, including the United States, Canada, and France. Starting in February 2026, all visitors from these countries will need to apply for the ETA online before traveling to the UK.

These travel law changes reflect the UK’s continued commitment to modernizing its border control systems. By implementing new technologies and digital systems, the UK aims to improve efficiency, reduce wait times, and bolster national security. With these changes, travelers will experience a smoother entry process while the UK strengthens its borders for the future. These updates are crucial for ensuring a seamless and secure travel experience in 2026 and beyond.

1. The £17 Europe Travel Fee: What UK Tourists Need to Know

One of the most significant changes for UK travelers heading to Europe will be the introduction of the £17 Europe Travel Fee. This fee, part of the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), will come into effect in the latter half of 2026.

Key Details of the £17 Fee:

• Fee Amount: £17 (20 euros) for UK citizens traveling to Schengen zone countries.
• Validity: Once paid, the registration will remain valid for up to three years, allowing multiple trips to Europe during this period.
• Application Process: Travelers will need to apply for ETIAS online before their trip. This system does not require pre-registration at the border, simplifying the entry process.
• Countries Affected: This applies to Schengen area countries, such as Iceland, Norway, and Switzerland, but not to Ireland or Cyprus.

Why is this change important?
The ETIAS system aims to improve border control, reduce processing times, and enhance the security of the Schengen area. While this fee may initially seem like a small burden, it will help streamline travel for millions of UK tourists visiting European destinations each year.

2. The Entry Exit System (EES): Streamlining Border Control with Biometrics

Starting in April 2026, the UK will join several other countries in implementing the Entry Exit System (EES). This system is designed to track the entry and exit of all travelers entering the European Union.

What Does the EES Mean for UK Travelers?

• Biometric Data: Travelers will need to provide biometric data (such as fingerprints and photographs) when entering or leaving Schengen area countries.
• Countries Affected: The EES will affect all countries in the Schengen area, such as Germany, France, Spain, and Italy, but not Ireland or Cyprus.
• Implementation Date: This system will be fully implemented by April 2026, following a phased rollout that began in October 2025.

The EES will help improve border security and ensure that travelers are correctly processed, preventing fraud and enhancing efficiency. By automating parts of the process, it aims to reduce wait times at borders and provide authorities with a clearer overview of who is entering and leaving the European Union.

3. Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) Scheme: New Rules for Non-British Visitors to the UK

From February 2026, the UK will introduce the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme for all non-British visitors. This new system will affect tourists from over 85 countries, including Canada, France, and the United States.

Details of the ETA Scheme:

• Who Needs an ETA?: The ETA will be required for all non-British nationals who do not require a visa to visit the UK.
• Cost: The ETA will cost £16 for each application.
• Application Process: Travelers will apply for the ETA online. The application will be automated, with most decisions made within minutes. However, complex cases may require further scrutiny.
• Purpose of the ETA: This scheme is being implemented to digitize and streamline the immigration system. It aims to make border checks faster and improve security.

The ETA is a significant step toward digitalizing the UK’s immigration process, and it will make entering the UK simpler for most visitors. In addition, it will help prevent fraudulent entries and make it easier to track visitors who are passing through UK airports or other points of entry.

How These Changes Will Affect UK Travelers

These new travel laws will affect the way UK citizens and visitors to the UK interact with border control systems. Below is a summary of how each change will impact your travel:

• £17 Europe Travel Fee: Will be required for UK citizens traveling to Schengen zone countries from late 2026.
• Entry Exit System (EES): UK citizens traveling to the Schengen area will need to provide biometric data upon entry and exit starting in April 2026.
• Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA): Non-British nationals visiting the UK will need to apply online for an ETA starting from February 2026.

Conclusion: What You Need to Know About UK Travel Changes in 2026

As the UK continues to evolve its border control systems, the £17 Europe Travel Fee, the Entry Exit System (EES), and the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme will all play a pivotal role in shaping travel in 2026. Whether you’re a UK citizen traveling to Europe or a visitor heading to the UK, these changes are designed to streamline the process and enhance security for everyone involved.

While the £17 fee and EES may initially be an inconvenience for some travelers, they are ultimately intended to improve the efficiency and security of the system. Similarly, the ETA scheme will ensure a smoother and more secure entry process for those visiting the UK. These changes mark a significant shift towards digitization in the UK’s travel and tourism infrastructure, ensuring that travelers and border control authorities alike will benefit from faster processing times and increased security.