The New UK ETA Scheme: Mandatory Rules for Visa-Exempt Travelers

Planning a UK trip in 2026? If you are from a visa-exempt country, you may now need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before boarding your flight.

The United Kingdom eTA online requirement is now mandatory for eligible non-visa nationals. Understanding who needs it, how to apply, and what it allows can help you avoid problems at the airport.

What Is the United Kingdom ETA?

The UK Electronic Travel Authorisation is a digital travel permission for eligible visitors who do not normally need a visa to enter the UK.

It is linked electronically to the passport used in the application. The ETA is not a visa and does not guarantee entry at the UK border.

The system covers travel to the UK, as well as Jersey, Guernsey and the Isle of Man in applicable circumstances.

The UK government has now moved from introducing the scheme gradually to enforcing the requirement for eligible non-visa nationals.

Is a UK ETA Mandatory in 2026?

Yes, for most eligible visa-exempt travelers.

From 25 February 2026, non-visa nationals who require an ETA must have valid digital permission before travelling to the UK. Airlines can prevent passengers from boarding if they do not have an ETA or another valid form of permission.

This means an approved ETA should be part of your travel preparation, just like checking your passport and flight details.

For example, if you are travelling from the USA to London for a holiday, you generally need an ETA before travelling. US nationals are among the nationalities covered by the ETA system.

Who Needs a United Kingdom eTA Online?

Most travelers from countries that do not normally require a UK visitor visa need an ETA.

Eligible nationalities include travelers from countries such as:

• United States

• Canada

• Australia

• New Zealand

• Japan

• South Korea

• France and other European countries

• Several Gulf and other visa-exempt countries

The exact requirement depends on the nationality shown on your passport and your reason for travelling. The UK government maintains the current ETA nationality list, so travelers should check their individual circumstances before applying.

If you are unsure whether you need an ETA or a visa, use the UK's official eligibility checker before making travel arrangements.

For additional information about visiting the UK, you can also explore United Kingdom visa information .

Who Does Not Need a UK ETA?

Not every traveler needs an ETA.

You generally do not need one if you:

• Are a British or Irish citizen

• Already hold a UK visa

• Have permission to live, work or study in the UK

• Have settled or pre-settled status

• Have another valid UK immigration permission

• Are travelling under certain specific exemptions

There are also special rules for some people transiting through UK airports without passing through border control. If you are unsure whether your transit is airside or requires border control, check with your airline.

UK Travel Authorization Application: What Do You Need?

The UK travel authorization application is completed online or through the official UK ETA app.

You will generally need:

1. The passport you will use for your UK trip

2. An email address

3. A payment card or supported digital payment method

4. A photograph or camera image of your face

5. Your passport details

Your ETA is connected to the passport used in the application. If your passport expires or you receive a new passport, you will normally need a new ETA.

Make sure your information is accurate before submitting the application because the application fee is non-refundable and incorrect details may require you to apply again.

How Much Does a UK ETA Cost in 2026?

As of October 2026, the UK government lists the ETA fee as £20.

Be careful when searching online because some third-party websites may charge additional service fees on top of the government fee.

A service provider can assist with the application process, but travelers should understand exactly what they are paying for before submitting an application.

How Long Is a UK ETA Valid?

An approved ETA is normally valid for 2 years or until the passport used for the application expires, whichever happens first.

During its validity, the ETA can generally be used for multiple journeys to the UK.

For example, imagine you receive an ETA in October 2026 and your passport remains valid beyond October 2028. The ETA can normally remain valid for two years, subject to the applicable rules.

However, if your passport expires earlier, the ETA ends with that passport.

What Can You Do With a UK ETA?

An ETA can allow eligible travelers to visit the UK for up to 6 months for purposes such as:

• Tourism

• Visiting family or friends

• Certain business activities

• Short-term study

• Certain permitted paid engagements

It can also apply to some transit situations where the traveler passes through UK border control.

However, an ETA is not a work visa and does not allow you to simply live in the UK through repeated visits.

If your purpose of travel does not fit the ETA rules, you may need a different type of UK visa.

Fly to London Entry Rules: What Should Travelers Know?

If your plan is to fly to London, having an ETA is only one part of your travel preparation.

Your airline may check your digital travel permission before allowing you to board. The ETA must be linked to the passport you are travelling with.

At the UK border, an ETA does not automatically guarantee entry. Border officers can still assess whether you meet the requirements for entry and whether your intended activities are permitted.

Example: Traveler From the USA

Suppose you are a US citizen flying from New York to London for a two-week holiday.

You would normally:

1. Check that your nationality requires an ETA.

2. Apply for the ETA using your travel passport.

3. Wait for the decision before travelling.

4. Travel with the same passport connected to the ETA.

5. Meet the normal UK visitor requirements when you arrive.

The ETA does not replace the border-entry process.

UK ETA vs UK Visitor Visa

Do Children Need a UK ETA?

Yes. Each person travelling needs their own ETA, including babies and children, where an ETA is required for their nationality. You can apply for another person's ETA in accordance with the application rules.

Families should therefore check every passport individually rather than assuming that one ETA covers the whole group.

Common UK ETA Mistakes to Avoid

A few simple mistakes can cause unnecessary travel problems.

Using the wrong passport:
Your ETA is linked to the passport used in the application. If you travel with a different passport, you may need a new ETA.

Leaving the application until the last moment:
Do not treat the ETA as something to arrange after reaching the airport. Apply before travelling and allow time for a decision.

Assuming an ETA is a visa:
An ETA provides permission to travel, but it does not guarantee entry or give permission to undertake activities that require a visa.

Ignoring transit rules:
Transit requirements can depend on whether you pass through UK border control. Check your itinerary and airline requirements carefully.

UK ETA FAQ

Do I need a UK ETA to visit London in 2026?

If you are a visa-exempt national covered by the ETA scheme, you generally need an approved ETA before travelling to the UK. The requirement has been enforced since 25 February 2026.

How much is the UK ETA in 2026?

The current UK government fee is £20. Third-party providers may charge additional service fees for assistance.

How long does a UK ETA last?

An ETA normally lasts for two years or until the passport used for the application expires, whichever comes first.

Can I work in the UK with an ETA?

No. An ETA does not generally allow you to take employment or carry out work for a UK company. Different immigration permission may be required depending on the work and circumstances.

Apply for Your UK ETA Before You Travel

The UK ETA system is now an important part of travel planning for eligible visa-exempt visitors. Checking your eligibility and applying before your journey can help prevent last-minute boarding problems.

For assistance with your application, visit the UK ETA application page and review your requirements before travelling.

Apply now and make sure your UK travel authorization is arranged before your flight.