“No permission, no travel” : the UK will fully enforce ETA scheme in February 2026

The UK government announced today that starting February 25, 2026, visitors from 85 countries, including the United States, Canada, and France, will no longer be allowed to legally enter the United Kingdom without an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).

While the ETA is already required for all nationalities currently exempt from a visa, authorities clarified that a grace period has been in effect since its launch. Beginning in February 2026, this transition phase will end, making the ETA fully mandatory before any travel to the United Kingdom. Carriers will also be required to verify travelers’ ETA status before boarding.

According to the government, more than 13.3 million visitors have already applied for an ETA since its introduction in October 2023. Officials say the system has made travel “faster and smoother,” including for connecting passengers who must go through UK passport control.

Mike Tapp, the UK Minister for Migration and Citizenship, emphasized that the ETA gives authorities “greater power to stop those who pose a threat from setting foot in the country,” while improving insight into migration flows.

“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,” the minister added.

A gradual transition before full ETA enforcement

Since its rollout, the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) has not been enforced strictly, as the government wanted to give travelers time to adjust to the new procedure. London says it is following the model of other countries, such as the United States and Canada, which also implemented their travel authorization systems gradually.

The application can be completed online or through the “UK ETA” mobile app, available on the App Store and Google Play Store, for a fee of £16. Most applicants receive an automated decision within minutes, but authorities recommend allowing up to three business days for applications requiring additional review.

Tourists and business travelers from the following 85 countries and territories must obtain an ETA before traveling to the United Kingdom: