UK Introduces New Groundbreaking Electronic Travel Authorisation For US And Canadian Travellers Effective February 2026 With Strict Border Checks

Published on November 30, 2025

Starting February 2026, US and Canadian travellers will be required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before flying to the UK. This new policy, part of the UK’s effort to enhance border security and streamline entry processes, aims to ensure safer and more efficient travel. The ETA will be mandatory for all visa-exempt visitors, marking a significant shift from the current system, where simply having a passport and flight ticket was enough. This digital permit will be required for short-term visits, including tourism and business trips, and must be secured before boarding to avoid potential disruptions or denial of entry at the airport.

Starting on February 25, 2026, travellers from the United States and Canada will be required to obtain advance digital permission before flying to the United Kingdom. This will mark the full implementation of the UK’s new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system for citizens from 85 visa-exempt countries, including the US and Canada.

The ETA is a component of a broader effort to enhance border security through a fully digital process. The UK Home Office has outlined the new policy with the straightforward phrase: “No permission, no travel.” As part of this new system, airlines and other carriers will be mandated to confirm that passengers possess an approved ETA or eVisa before allowing them to board flights heading to the UK.

What Is the ETA and Who Needs It?

The ETA is a digital travel authorization, not a full visa, intended for short-term visits. It applies to a range of purposes such as tourism, family visits, business trips, short courses, or transits through UK airports. Under this system, visitors will generally be allowed to stay in the UK for up to six months.

The UK government has stated that the ETA will be mandatory for all eligible non-visa nationals from February 2026 onward. Airlines and carriers will be legally required to check that passengers have an approved ETA prior to boarding.

What This Means for US and Canadian Travellers

This new rule represents a significant shift for US and Canadian travellers who have traditionally enjoyed visa-free access to the UK. Starting in February 2026, simply having a valid passport and flight ticket will no longer suffice for entry. Without an approved ETA linked to their passport, passengers could face denial of boarding at the airport.

The changes are already generating buzz in the media, particularly in Canada, where coverage has highlighted the impact on travellers planning visits to the UK. With this new requirement in place, Canadians—along with Americans—will need to make the ETA application a part of their pre-travel preparations, incorporating it into their checklists before booking any trips to the UK.

How to Apply for a UK ETA

The application process for the UK ETA will be conducted online or via the official UK ETA app. Travellers will need to provide several details during the application, including:

• A valid biometric passport from the US or Canada
• Basic personal and contact information
• Travel details (such as where they will be staying)
• A recent digital photograph

The cost for applying for an ETA is currently set at £16. Most applicants can expect decisions to be made within minutes; however, the UK government advises applying at least three working days prior to departure in case additional checks are needed. Once approved, the ETA is typically valid for multiple trips over a period of two years, or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.

What US and Canadian Visitors Should Keep in Mind

As 2026 approaches, it is important for US and Canadian travellers to note the following steps to ensure smooth travel to the UK:

• Check your passport: Make sure your passport is valid for the duration of your planned trip.
• Apply for the ETA early: Even though most applications are processed quickly, it’s wise to apply well in advance to avoid last-minute issues.
• Treat the ETA as part of your standard travel process: Just as you would check your passport and book your flights, make the ETA application a regular part of your pre-trip checklist when planning travel to the UK.

As travellers adapt to the new system, it’s also essential to stay updated on any changes or updates to the rules. For instance, while the UK government expects most ETA applications to be approved quickly, some cases may require additional documentation or verification, which could take longer to process.

This shift to a digital travel authorization system aims to streamline border entry, but it also introduces new responsibilities for international visitors. As the implementation date draws closer, US and Canadian citizens must ensure they are fully prepared to comply with the new requirements in order to avoid disruptions to their travel plans.

From February 25, 2026, all US and Canadian travellers to the UK will need an approved ETA before flying. While this is a relatively simple process, it will be crucial for visitors to make it part of their travel planning to avoid any surprises at the airport.