UK Electronic Travel Authorisation explained ahead of full enforcement

The UK Home Office has confirmed that the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme will become fully enforceable from 25 February 2026. From this date, most non-visa nationals will be required to hold a valid ETA before travelling to the UK, or risk being refused boarding.

This article outlines what the ETA is, who it applies to, and the key changes travellers and employers should be aware of ahead of enforcement.

What is the UK ETA?

The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a mandatory digital travel permission required for most visitors to the UK who do not need to apply for a visit visa in advance. This includes nationals of visa-exempt countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and most European countries.

An ETA allows individuals to travel to the UK for short stays of up to six months, provided their intended activities are permitted under the UK Visitor Rules. It is important to note that:

• An ETA is not a visa
• It does not guarantee entry to the UK
• It simply grants permission to travel to the UK in advance of arrival

The ETA currently costs £16 and can be applied for via the UK ETA app or through the official UK Government website.

Who Does Not Need an ETA?

The following individuals are exempt from the ETA requirement:

• British and Irish nationals, provided they hold a valid passport or travel document
• Individuals who already hold a valid UK visa and have a digital immigration status (eVisa)
• eVisa holders, where a valid passport or travel document is correctly linked to their UKVI account

What Is Changing from 25 February 2026?

Although the ETA scheme has been operating since October 2023, it has not been fully enforced. This will change on 25 February 2026, when the Home Office introduces a strict “No ETA, no travel” policy. Below is a summary of the key changes.

Key Changes

Non-Visa Nationals

From 25 February 2026, nationals from visa-exempt countries must hold a valid ETA before travelling to the UK.

• Travellers without an ETA will be refused boarding on flights or other transport to the UK
• This may result in significant travel disruption
• If a traveller obtains a new passport, they must apply for a new ETA, even if the previous ETA was still valid

Most ETA applications are processed quickly (often within minutes). However, travellers are strongly advised to apply at least 3 working days before travel.

Dual British Nationals

Individuals who hold British nationality in addition to another nationality cannot rely on an ETA.

They must either:

• Travel using a valid British or Irish passport, or
• Hold a Certificate of Entitlement to the Right of Abode (CoE) in their foreign passport

Important points to note:

• An ETA cannot be applied for using a non-British passport
• Expired British passports will not be accepted
• Processing times can be lengthy:
  • British passport applications from overseas can take up to 6 weeks
  • Certificates of Entitlement typically take 4–8 weeks, if eligibility requirements are met

eVisa Holders

Individuals who already hold a UK visa do not need to apply for an ETA, as they already have a digital immigration status. However, eVisa holders must ensure that:

• Their current, valid passport or travel document is correctly linked to their UKVI eVisa account
• Their personal details are kept up to date

From 28 January 2026, eVisa holders may experience boarding difficulties if their passport or travel document is not linked to their eVisa.

Linking or updating passport details can be done through the UKVI online account. eVisa holders can also generate a share code to allow carriers or authorities to verify their immigration status.

Steps indivduals and employers should take

Given the significant consequences of non-compliance, individuals and organisations should take proactive steps now, including:

• Sharing this information internally with employees or frequent travellers
• Encouraging existing eVisa holders to review their UKVI accounts
• Ensuring all passports and travel documents are valid and correctly linked
• Allowing sufficient time for passport or Certificate of Entitlement applications, where required

Our immigration team regularly advises individuals, businesses, and employers on UK travel and immigration compliance. If you have questions about the ETA scheme, eVisa requirements, or your eligibility to travel to the UK, please get in touch with the immigration team.