UK enforces digital travel approval through new ETA system

The government will enforce digital permission checks on all travellers, requiring carriers to confirm every passenger holds an ETA or eVisa before entering the UK.
From February 2026, visitors from eighty-five nationalities must obtain an ETA before travelling, as the UK advances its plan for a fully digital and more secure border system.

Visitors from 85 nationalities, including those from the US, Canada, and France, will soon be required to secure an Electronic Travel Authorisation to enter the UK.

The requirement takes effect in February 2026 and forms part of a move towards a fully digital immigration system that aims to deliver a contactless border in the future.

More than thirteen million people in the UK have already used the ETA since its introduction in 2023. However, the government claims that this scale facilitates smoother travel and faster processing for most applicants.

Carriers will be required to confirm that incoming passengers hold either an ETA or an eVisa before departure, a step officials argue strengthens the country’s ability to block individuals who present a security risk.

British and Irish citizens remain exempt; however, dual nationals have been advised to carry a valid British passport to avoid any difficulties when boarding.

The application process takes place through the official ETA app, costs £ 16, and concludes typically within minutes. However, applicants are advised to allow three working days in case additional checks are required.

Would you like to learn more about AI, tech and digital diplomacy? If so, ask our Diplo chatbot!