The United Kingdom will begin full enforcement of its Electronic Travel Authorisation requirement for visa-exempt travellers from February 25, 2026, the UK government has said.
With just over two weeks to the enforcement date, UK authorities have warned that eligible visitors who fail to obtain an ETA before travelling risk being denied boarding on flights, trains or ferries bound for the UK.
The warning was issued in a statement posted on X by UK Visas and Immigration, an agency of the Home Office.
“From 25 February 2026, eligible visitors to the UK can’t legally travel without an Electronic Travel Authorisation,” the Home Office said.
It directed prospective travellers to the official GOV.UK website and urged them to apply through the UK ETA mobile app or online platform.
The ETA scheme forms part of the UK’s ongoing digital immigration overhaul, aimed at strengthening border security while simplifying entry procedures for short-term visitors.
It requires pre-travel authorisation for nationals of about 85 countries who do not ordinarily require a visa for short stays.
These include citizens of the United States, Canada, France and several other European countries.
ETA does not apply to Nigerians, as they need a visa to enter the UK
From February 25, transport operators will be legally required to confirm that travellers hold a valid ETA before allowing them to board, replacing the current discretionary checks.
Who needs an ETA
The authorisation applies to non-visa nationals travelling to the UK for tourism, business or short-term study of up to six months.
British and Irish citizens, including dual nationals, are exempt from the requirement.
However, authorities advise such travellers to carry proof of citizenship—such as a valid British passport or a Certificate of Entitlement—to avoid delays.
Individuals with existing UK residency permission or an eVisa are also exempt.
Cost and validity
An ETA application currently costs £16 and is valid for multiple entries over a two-year period or until the applicant’s passport expires, whichever comes first.
The UK government has indicated that the fee may rise to £20 in the future.
How to apply
Applications can be submitted online via GOV.UK or through the official UK ETA app.
Applicants are required to provide passport details, contact information and answers to security-related questions.
While most applications are approved within minutes, travellers are advised to apply at least three days before departure to avoid last-minute complications.
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