As of today, Wednesday 25 February 2026, travellers from 85 countries who are exempt from visa requirements will be refused entry to the UK without an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). The move is a significant step towards digitising the UK’s immigration system, paving the way for a contactless border. With the new plans in effect, the vast majority of travellers to the UK will require an ETA, an e-visa, or a British passport to enter the country.
In a statement released by the UK government in November 2025, minister for migration and citizenship, Mike Tapp, said, “ETAs give us greater power to stop those who pose a threat from setting foot in the country and gives us a fuller picture of immigration. ETAs are also better for travellers. Digitising the immigration system ensures the millions of people we welcome to the UK every year enjoy a more seamless travel experience.”
While the ETA roll-out has been ongoing for many years, it was not strictly enforced, allowing travellers to adjust to the new requirement in the same way the United States and Canada did with their new travel schemes. However, the checks are more stringent as of Wednesday 25 February.
In an initial statement released in 2024 by then-minister for migration and citizenship, Seema Malhotra, said, “Digitisation enables a smooth experience for the millions of people who pass through the border every year, including the visitors we warmly welcome to the UK who are predicted to contribute over £32 billion to our tourism economy this year. The worldwide expansion of the ETA demonstrates our commitment to enhance security through new technology and embedding a modern immigration system.”
How do I apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to enter the UK?
Anyone travelling to the UK can see their eligibility for the ETA scheme at gov.uk. To apply for an ETA, you’ll need:
- The passport you’ll travel with
- An email address
- A credit card, debit card, Apple Pay or Google Pay
- Photos of the face of the person applying
How much does an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) cost?
At the time of writing, Wednesday 25 February, ETAs cost £16 per person through the official channel linked above – other sites may charge more, but do not offer faster decisions. As with all such fees, the cost is kept under review, and the British government has already announced its intention to increase it to £20 in the future.
How long does it take to get an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)?
Most applications are automatically approved within minutes. However, it’s recommended to allow three working days (Monday-Friday) in case applications require additional review.
How long does an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) last?
An ETA lasts for two years or until your passport expires – whichever is sooner. You’re permitted to travel to the UK as many times as you wish while it remains valid.
Who needs to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)?
Residents and nationals of the following countries are required to apply for an ETA ahead of arrival in the United Kingdom:
- Andorra
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Argentina
- Australia
- Austria
- The Bahamas
- Bahrain
- Barbados
- Belgium
- Belize
- Brazil
- Brunei
- Bulgaria
- Canada
- Chile
- Costa Rica
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Czechia
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Grenada
- Guatemala
- Guyana
- Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Italy
- Israel
- Japan
- Kiribati
- Kuwait
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Macao Special Administrative Region
- Malaysia
- Maldives
- Malta
- Marshall Islands
- Mauritius
- Mexico
- Federated States of Micronesia
- Monaco
- Netherlands
- New Zealand
- Nicaragua
- Norway
- Oman
- Palau
- Panama
- Papua New Guinea
- Paraguay
- Peru
- Poland
- Portugal
- Qatar
- Romania
- Samoa
- San Marino
- Saudi Arabia
- Seychelles
- Singapore
- Solomon Islands
- South Korea
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- St Kitts and Nevis
- St Lucia
- St Vincent and the Grenadines
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Tonga
- Tuvalu
- United Arab Emirates
- United States
- Uruguay
- Vatican City
What happens if an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is denied?
If an ETA application is rejected, applicants are informed of the reason and can reapply to ensure there was no error. However, if an ETA is refused, applicants cannot appeal; instead, they must apply for a visa if they still wish to seek permission to come to the UK.
