How the UK’s New ETA System Will Impact Expired Passports: British Citizens Urged to Renew Early to Avoid Extra Fees and Travel Disruptions

Published on November 28, 2025

The United Kingdom is set to implement its new Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system in February 2026, and British citizens traveling abroad are now being urged to ensure their passports are up-to-date. The new system, which will require all non-visa travelers to obtain an ETA before entering the UK, could result in British nationals being charged fees typically only applied to foreign visitors—unless they renew their expired British passports.

The upcoming changes to UK border rules, which are expected to cause confusion for many British citizens living abroad, are a stark reminder of the importance of having a valid passport for international travel. Travelers who fail to renew their passports may face unnecessary ETA charges, as well as travel disruptions caused by delays at border control or even denied boarding due to mismatched or expired documents. U.K.ABROAD, a leading passport renewal service for British nationals overseas, is now calling on all British travelers to renew their passports early to avoid this new ETA fee and to ensure smooth travel to the UK in 2026 and beyond.

With automated border systems expanding and becoming more strict, British citizens who rely on foreign passports or who have allowed their UK passports to expire could find themselves classified as foreign nationals, paying a fee that they would not normally incur. It’s a situation that could create unnecessary stress for expats and international travelers who are unaware of the upcoming changes. The time to act is now.

What You Need to Know About the 2026 ETA System

The UK’s new Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system will officially take effect on February 25, 2026. This system will apply to all non-visa travelers, including British citizens, who do not require a visa to enter the UK. The ETA will be mandatory for anyone traveling to the UK by air, sea, or land and will be required before departure.

However, the system comes with a significant caveat. Expired UK passports or travelers using foreign passports may face additional charges under the new rules, as the UK’s border control will classify them as foreign nationals and apply the ETA fee, which can be up to £10 or more. British citizens with valid UK passports, however, will be exempt from this fee.

Here’s what you should know:

• Traveling with an expired passport: Travelers with expired UK passports will be required to apply for an ETA and pay the fee, even though they are UK nationals.
• Foreign passports: If you are using a foreign passport for travel, you may also be treated as a foreign national and subject to the same ETA fees.
• Avoiding unnecessary costs: The best way to avoid these extra charges is to ensure your UK passport is valid before you travel.

Why You Should Renew Your Passport Now

There are several compelling reasons to renew your British passport as soon as possible, particularly if you are planning to travel to the UK after the new ETA system is enforced in February 2026.

1. Avoid ETA Fees

One of the most important reasons to renew your passport now is to avoid unnecessary ETA fees. By ensuring that your UK passport is valid, you will not be classified as a foreign national and, therefore, will not be required to pay the ETA fee. British citizens will only be exempt from the fee if their passport is valid, and travel restrictions will not apply.

2. Prevent Travel Disruptions

If you fail to renew your passport and it has expired, you may experience delays at the airport. With automated border control systems becoming more widespread, it’s increasingly likely that you will be caught in a system mismatch, resulting in significant delays at the gate or even denial of boarding. The last thing you want is to be turned away at the airport, especially when it can be easily avoided by renewing your passport in advance.

3. Stay Aligned With the New UK Border Rules

Renewing your UK passport before the ETA system takes effect will ensure that your travel documents are aligned with the UK’s new border rules. As travel regulations continue to tighten globally, it’s essential to ensure your passport is up-to-date and accurately reflects your UK citizenship status. This will help you avoid complications and disruptions when traveling, whether you are returning to the UK or visiting for the first time.

How to Ensure Your UK Passport Is Valid for 2026

To ensure you are not caught off guard by the upcoming changes, it’s vital to check the expiry date on your UK passport and take action if necessary. If your passport is nearing expiration or has already expired, renewing it early is the best option to avoid complications.

• Step 1: Check the expiration date of your UK passport and ensure it is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned travel date.
• Step 2: If your passport has expired or will expire soon, start the renewal process immediately. It’s better to start early to avoid delays.
• Step 3: Use trusted services like U.K.ABROAD, which can expedite the renewal process for British nationals living overseas.
• Step 4: Once your passport has been renewed, double-check that your passport number matches your ETA application (if required), and keep your passport updated with the latest travel information.

Common Travel Disruptions and How to Avoid Them

Traveling with an expired passport can lead to significant disruptions. Here are a few scenarios you might face if you fail to renew your passport in time for the new ETA system:

• Denied boarding: Airlines are increasingly reliant on automated systems to verify passenger details. Travelers with expired or mismatched documents may be denied boarding, even if they are British citizens.
• Increased waiting times at immigration: Expired passports may require additional checks at immigration, which can lead to long waits at the border and missed connections.
• Mismatched travel documents: If you’re using a foreign passport alongside your British nationality, it’s crucial to update your UK passport to ensure the information aligns with the ETA requirements.

U.K.ABROAD: Helping British Nationals with Passport Renewals

For British citizens living abroad, U.K.ABROAD offers specialized services to help you renew your passport quickly and efficiently. The company has an established reputation for providing expert support, fast processing, and secure handling of your travel documents.

U.K.ABROAD’s services include:

• Fast Passport Renewal: Get your passport renewed quickly, with expedited processing options.
• Expert Document Checking: Ensure your documents are correctly prepared before submission.
• Secure Courier Services: U.K.ABROAD guarantees that your documents will be safely delivered, with tracking available throughout the process.
• 99% Acceptance Rate: U.K.ABROAD boasts a high success rate, ensuring that your renewal application will be approved without unnecessary delays.

The Impact of ETA Fees on British Nationals Abroad

As of February 2026, British nationals who have expired passports or are using foreign passports to travel could be caught off guard by the ETA fee. U.K.ABROAD has already received numerous inquiries from expats living in countries such as Australia, the United States, Canada, South Africa, and Europe, who are only now realizing the impact this could have on their travel plans.

• Australia: Many British citizens in Australia may be using Australian passports or allowing their UK passports to expire, which will result in ETA charges.
• United States & Canada: British nationals living in the United States and Canada should ensure their UK passports are valid to avoid paying the new ETA fee.
• Europe: European-based British citizens should also renew their UK passports early to avoid complications when traveling back to the UK.

Conclusion: Plan Ahead to Avoid ETA Fees and Travel Disruptions

With the 2026 ETA system quickly approaching, British citizens who plan to travel to the UK are strongly encouraged to renew their passports early. This simple step can save you money, time, and stress when traveling. By ensuring your UK passport is valid, you will avoid unnecessary ETA fees and avoid travel disruptions caused by expired or mismatched documents.