UK Launches New ETA Travel System
The UK is launching a new Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system similar to the U.S. ESTA, which will be required for non-visa nationals before entering the country. The system will also affect dual nationals, who may need to ensure they are traveling with the correct documents to avoid delays or complications at border control. The policy shift is part of a broader trend of tightening travel protocols in Western countries as global mobility rebounds post-pandemic.
- The application for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) costs £16 and is valid for two years, or until the holder's passport expires, whichever comes first. It permits multiple journeys to the UK for stays of up to six months at a time. - As of February 25, 2026, the ETA requirement is fully enforced, meaning carriers will deny boarding to travelers from 85 visa-exempt countries if they do not have this digital permission before traveling. The system was rolled out in phases starting in October 2023, and over 19.6 million ETAs were granted by the end of September 2025. - The application is submitted online or through the "UK ETA" mobile app and requires applicants to scan their passport, provide a photo, and answer questions about their eligibility and criminal history. While most applicants receive a decision within minutes, the government recommends applying at least three working days before travel. - Dual British citizens are exempt from the ETA requirement and cannot apply for one. They must now present a valid British passport or a Certificate of Entitlement to prove their right to enter the UK; failure to do so could result in being denied boarding by airlines. - The stated purpose of the system is to improve border security by screening visitors in advance and creating a more efficient, digital immigration process. It is part of a government objective to have fully digitalized borders. - The ETA is required for nationals from 85 countries who do not need a visa for short stays, including citizens of the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and all European Union member states. - The UK's system is similar to others globally, including the United States' ESTA, Canada's eTA, and Australia's ETA. The European Union also plans to launch its own version, the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), in mid-2025.
