UK Forces Millions to Get Mandatory Electronic Travel Authorisation From 25 February 2026

From 25 February 2026 the UK made its Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) mandatory for travellers from 85 visa‑exempt countries.

“A new travel system for visitors to the UK comes into force from Wednesday for citizens of dozens of countries like the US and Australia”

BBC

The change extended pre‑travel digital screening to millions and requires a valid ETA or appropriate visa before departure.

BBC

The measure, first introduced in October 2023 and now strictly enforced after a grace period, applies to visitors from countries including the US, Canada, Australia and many EU states, and carriers are legally required to verify ETAs and may refuse boarding when no ETA is found.

The ETA is a digital permission linked to a traveller’s passport rather than a visa.

Approved ETAs are valid for up to two years, or until the passport expires, and allow multiple short stays of up to six months.

Business Upturn

Applicants submit passport details, a digital photo and security and eligibility answers via the official app or GOV.UK.

Most decisions are automated and issued within minutes, though the government advises applying at least three business days before departure in case manual checks are needed.

The rollout has produced notable complications for dual nationals and long‑term residents.

“UK’s new ETA travel rules now in force The UK’s new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system is officially in force, reshaping how millions of visitors enter the country and triggering confusion for some British dual nationals”

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People holding both a UK and another passport cannot use the ETA on their non‑British passport and must either present a British passport or obtain a digital Certificate of Entitlement.

Neither option is issued automatically and both can be costly and time‑consuming to secure.

Reports detail costs of roughly £100 for an adult British passport and £589 for the certificate.

The reports warn that the timing can leave people caught short if they are abroad when the mandatory system begins.

Enforcement and appeal mechanics vary in how they are reported.

Carriers are described as legally obliged to check permission to travel and to refuse boarding without an ETA.

EasternEye

Transit passengers who pass through UK border control are said to need an ETA.

At least one outlet notes there is no appeal if an ETA is refused and that applicants must seek a visa instead.

Coverage combines caution with practical travel tips.

“The application is made electronically, is digitally linked to the passport and is valid for two years, costing €18”

El Mundo

Diaspora communities and long-term residents are reported as anxious or confused.

El Mundo

Outlets offering guidance warn travellers to use only the official portal or app.

They advise applying well before departure.

Guidance says to expect a fee currently set at £16, with the government signalling a possible rise to £20.