US-Canada To Join Mexico, Brazil, Costa Rica, Bahamas, Peru, Antigua And Barbuda, And More Countries As UK Takes Bold Step With Mandatory ETA For All Visa-Free Visitors: Everything You Need To Know

Published on November 25, 2025

US-Canada will join Mexico, Brazil, Costa Rica, Bahamas, Peru, Antigua and Barbuda, and more countries in the UK’s new mandatory ETA requirement starting February 2026, as the UK aims to enhance border security and streamline the entry process for travelers from visa-exempt nations. This digital travel authorization, similar to systems in other countries like the US and Canada, will ensure a smoother, more secure immigration process by allowing authorities to screen travelers before they even board their flights. With the new rule in place, travelers will need to plan ahead and apply for an ETA before visiting the UK.

Starting February 25, 2026, the United Kingdom will introduce a game-changing policy that will require visitors from a select group of countries, including the US, Canada, and several prominent destinations, to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before they can enter. The move marks a significant shift in UK border security measures and streamlines the entry process for millions of travelers.

This development is part of a broader push by the UK government to enhance border security, reduce the number of people entering without sufficient background checks, and simplify the travel process for legitimate visitors. Here’s everything you need to know about the new UK ETA system, including which countries will be affected, how to apply for an ETA, and why this change is so important.

What is the UK ETA and Why is it Being Introduced?

The UK ETA is a digital travel authorization that will be mandatory for all visitors from visa-exempt countries starting February 2026. Much like the US ESTA or Canada’s eTA, this system allows visitors to enter the UK for tourism, business, or transit purposes without the need for a traditional visa. However, this does not mean that travelers can bypass immigration checks; instead, it helps streamline the process and provides additional security measures before travelers even board their flights.

According to the UK Home Office, the ETA will allow immigration authorities to better screen travelers before they reach the UK. By doing so, they can identify potential risks and prevent entry by individuals who may pose a threat. More than 13 million travelers have already applied for an ETA since the program’s introduction in 2023, and officials are confident that this new system will continue to strengthen border controls.

Affected Countries: Who Will Need an ETA?

The new ETA requirement will apply to travelers from the following countries starting in February 2026:

• Argentina
• Belize
• Brazil
• Chile
• Costa Rica
• Guatemala
• Guyana
• Mexico
• Nicaragua
• Panama
• Paraguay
• Peru
• Uruguay
• Antigua and Barbuda
• Bahamas
• Barbados
• Grenada
• Saint Kitts and Nevis
• Saint Lucia
• Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
• Canada
• United States

These countries will now be required to apply for an ETA before traveling to the UK. While many of these nations are popular travel destinations with strong trade and tourism ties to the UK, the new measure will undoubtedly impact the ease with which travelers can visit.

The Application Process: Quick, Simple, and Affordable

One of the key advantages of the new ETA system is its simplicity. Travelers from the listed countries can apply for an ETA online or through a dedicated mobile app, available for both iOS and Android devices. The cost of applying for an ETA is £16 per person, and most applications are approved within minutes. However, the UK Home Office advises travelers to submit their applications at least three days before their planned departure, as additional checks may be required for some individuals.

Once approved, the ETA is electronically linked to the traveler’s passport. This eliminates the need for travelers to carry physical documents or make additional arrangements. The ETA will be valid for multiple short visits, making it easier for frequent travelers to return to the UK without needing to apply each time.

Why This is a Major Change for Travelers

The introduction of the UK ETA will have a significant impact on travelers, especially those from countries that were previously exempt from visa requirements. For many, the UK has been a convenient destination where they could arrive without the need for complex paperwork. The new ETA requirement, however, will introduce an additional step in the travel process.

While this may seem like a minor inconvenience, it is a small price to pay for enhanced security and efficiency. Travelers can still enter the UK relatively easily, but now their background and travel history will be assessed in advance, which is likely to expedite the process once they reach the border.

What Happens If You Don’t Apply for an ETA?

The UK government has made it clear that travelers who fail to apply for an ETA before their flight will be denied entry. Airlines and travel operators will be responsible for verifying that their passengers have a valid ETA before allowing them to board. This means that even if you have a valid passport and a flight ticket, failing to secure an ETA could result in being turned away at the airport.

To avoid any issues, travelers should plan ahead and ensure they have their ETA in place before booking their flights. The simple online application process makes it easy to complete in advance, and with approval often taking only minutes, travelers can rest easy knowing their entry is secured.

How the UK ETA Will Impact Travel and Tourism

The new ETA requirement is expected to have both positive and negative effects on travel and tourism. On the one hand, it will enhance security by ensuring that only those who meet the entry requirements are allowed to visit the UK. This will help reduce the number of individuals attempting to enter the country without the proper documentation or background checks.

On the other hand, the ETA could also pose a hurdle for some travelers. Countries that have previously enjoyed visa-free access to the UK may experience some friction as their citizens are now required to undergo additional screening. Travel agencies, airlines, and tour operators will need to adjust their systems to accommodate this new requirement and ensure that all travelers are properly informed about the ETA process.

Tips for Travelers

To ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience when applying for your UK ETA, consider these tips:

• Apply early: Although most applications are processed within minutes, it’s always a good idea to apply at least three days before your planned travel date to avoid any last-minute issues.
• Check your passport: Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates. This is a common requirement for many international destinations.
• Stay informed: Keep up to date with any changes to the UK’s immigration policies, including any updates related to the ETA system.
• Prepare for checks: In some cases, additional checks may be required. If this happens, don’t panic – just give the authorities the time they need to complete the process.

As the UK introduces its mandatory ETA system, travelers from a variety of countries, including the US, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, and others, will need to adapt to the new entry requirements. The system is designed to enhance border security and simplify entry for legitimate travelers, making it easier for those who meet the requirements to enjoy their time in the UK.

The introduction of the ETA is a significant shift in the way the UK handles border control, but with its simple application process and affordable fees, it shouldn’t present a major barrier to travel. The key for travelers will be ensuring that they apply for their ETA in advance to avoid delays or issues at the airport.

Ultimately, this new system is an important step toward modernizing UK immigration controls, balancing security with convenience for visitors. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the UK’s decision to implement the ETA will likely set a new standard for how countries manage entry requirements for travelers from visa-exempt nations.

US-Canada will join Mexico, Brazil, Costa Rica, Bahamas, Peru, Antigua and Barbuda, and more countries in the UK’s new mandatory ETA requirement starting February 2026, as the UK strengthens border security and simplifies entry for travelers. This digital travel authorization will streamline the immigration process while ensuring a more thorough screening of visitors.

With millions of travelers expected to be impacted by this change, the new ETA system will undoubtedly reshape how people travel to the UK in 2026 and beyond. Make sure you’re prepared by securing your ETA early, and get ready to explore all that the UK has to offer with peace of mind.