Big Change Coming in 2026: Travellers from Eighty-Five Countries, Including the US and EU, Must Apply for ETA to Visit the UK

Published on November 24, 2025

Starting 25 February 2026, visitors from 85 countries, including the United States, Canada, and France, who previously did not require a visa, will be unable to travel to the UK without obtaining an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). This significant change in UK immigration policy aims to streamline the entry process and contribute to the UK’s broader vision of a fully digitized and contactless border system. Visitors will be required to apply for the ETA in advance of their travel to the UK, marking a major step in digitizing the immigration system.

A Shift Towards a Digital Border System

The introduction of the ETA will change the way many international travelers enter the UK. The system is designed to ensure that all visitors to the UK, whether traveling directly or through connecting flights, have been vetted and granted permission to enter the country before boarding their flight. This new policy is seen as a step toward a contactless UK border in the future, helping both the authorities and passengers by offering a smoother, more efficient travel experience.

By requiring visitors from 85 countries to obtain an ETA, the UK is aligning itself with similar immigration and border control systems already in place in other countries, such as the United States and Canada, which have implemented similar electronic travel schemes in the past.

How the ETA System Works

The ETA system, which launched in October 2023, has already been successfully used by over 13.3 million visitors. This system allows travelers to apply for entry authorization quickly and easily through the official UK ETA app, with most applicants receiving a decision within minutes. The application process is simple, with travelers required to provide basic information about themselves and their travel plans.

The cost of applying for the ETA is £16, a competitive price designed to make the process accessible to the millions of people who visit the UK each year. While the vast majority of applicants will receive an automatic decision, the UK government advises allowing three working days for processing, as a small percentage of applications may require additional review.

The Benefits of the ETA for Travelers

The implementation of the ETA system is designed to make the travel experience smoother for visitors. By digitizing the entry process, the UK is ensuring that travelers can enjoy faster processing times, less paperwork, and greater ease when traveling. The ETA provides a seamless travel experience, enabling visitors to travel with confidence, knowing their entry to the UK is already approved.

In addition to enhancing the traveler experience, the ETA system also provides benefits for the UK’s border security. It enables authorities to screen travelers before they arrive in the country, helping prevent individuals who pose a potential threat from entering. This added layer of security allows for more efficient management of incoming travelers, reducing the strain on border staff and improving safety for everyone.

What This Means for Travelers from 85 Countries

Travelers from 85 countries, including the United States, Canada, and most EU countries, who do not require a traditional visa will need to apply for an ETA before traveling to the UK. The UK government strongly advises travelers from these countries to plan ahead and obtain their ETA well in advance of their journey to avoid any issues at the border. This requirement is particularly important as the deadline approaches, and failure to comply could result in travelers being denied entry to the UK.

British and Irish citizens, including dual nationals, are exempt from this new requirement. However, the UK government strongly encourages dual British citizens to ensure that they have a valid British passport or Certificate of Entitlement. This will help avoid complications, such as being denied boarding when traveling to the UK after 25 February 2026.

The UK Government’s Commitment to Border Security and Efficiency

The UK government has emphasized that this move is part of a wider effort to improve the security and efficiency of its immigration system. Mike Tapp, the Minister for Migration and Citizenship, highlighted the importance of the ETA in helping authorities manage the entry of visitors. The system allows for greater scrutiny of travelers before they arrive in the UK, which, in turn, helps to ensure that only those who meet the UK’s entry requirements are allowed to enter.

Tapp noted that the ETA system also enables authorities to collect data on all travelers, offering a fuller picture of immigration patterns and enhancing the UK’s ability to address security concerns. This shift to a digital system is a key part of the UK’s broader strategy to modernize and streamline its immigration process, with the goal of improving security while making travel easier and more efficient.

Conclusion: A Step Towards a More Secure, Efficient Border System

As of 25 February 2026, visitors from 85 countries will be required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before traveling to the UK. This new requirement represents a significant step towards a contactless UK border, improving both security and the efficiency of the immigration system. Travelers are encouraged to apply for their ETA well in advance, ensuring they can enjoy a smooth travel experience and avoid disruptions to their plans.

The introduction of the ETA system reflects the UK’s ongoing commitment to modernizing its immigration procedures. By streamlining the entry process, travelers can expect a more efficient and secure experience when visiting the UK. With the added benefit of digital convenience, the ETA system ensures that visitors are thoroughly vetted before they arrive, enhancing safety and security at the UK’s borders.