The Uk is rolling out a fully digital border system that makes travel faster safer and more secure. As part of this upgrade, most visa-exempt visitors now need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before they can board a flight, ferry or train to the uk.
From 25 February 2026, anyone who needs an Electronic Travel Authorisation but does not have one will be denied boarding and will not be allowed to travel to the UK legally.
What Exactly is an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)?
ETA is a digital pre-travel permission linked to your passport.
It is not a visanot a tax, and does not guarantee entry it simply allows you to board transport to the Uk.
The ETA costs £16 and is valid for multiple trips of up to 6 months each for 2 years or until your passport expires (whichever comes first).
This system bring the UK in line with countries like the USA (ESTA) and Australia (ETA) to strengthen border security.
Who Needs a UK ETA?
You need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) if:
- You normally do not need a visa for short stays (up to 6 months) in the UK
- You do not already have UK immigration status (e.g. visa, residence permit, etc.)
Even if you are only transiting through the UK and passing through border control (airside transit), you still need an ETA.
Exception: Passengers transiting through Heathrow or Manchester airports who stay airside and do not go through UK passport control are currently excmpt.
Who is Exempt from the Electronic Travel Authorisation?
No ETA is required for:
- British citizens
- Irish citizens
- People who already have a UK visa or UK immigration status
Legal residents of Ireland (visa-exempt nationalities such as EU, US, Canadian, Australian, etc.) when travelling within the Common Travel Area and able to prove Irish residency full list and proof requirements on GOV.UK
Dual British citizens must travel on a valid British passport (or Certificate of Entitlement). From 25 February 2026, dual nationals without valid British documentation will face extra checks and delays at the border.
How to Apply For Your UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (Fastest Way)
The quickest and easiest method is the official UK ETA app (available on Google Play and Apple App Store). Most people receive an instant automated approval in minutes.
You can alsi apply directly on the official website if you don’t have a suitable smartphone:
Apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) GOV.UK
Application Requirements:
- Valid passport
- Recent digital photo (must meet GOV.UK photo rules)
- £16 fee (paid by card)
- Answer criminality and suitability questions.
Apply at least 3 working days before travel in case manual checks are needed.
Always use the same passport you applied with when travelling.
How the Electronic Travel Authorisation Strengthens UK Security
Every ETA applicant provides biographic, biometric, and contact details plus answers to security questions. This allows the Home Office to screen travellers in advance and stop those who pose a risk before they board.
What Happens if Your Electronic Travel Authorisation is Refused?
- If your application is rejected (rare), you will be told why and can re-apply (fixing the issue).
- If it is refused, there is no appeal you must apply for a full visa instead.
Northern Ireland & Common Travel Area Reles
There are no routine immigration checks when travelling from the Republic of Ireland to Northern Ireland. However, the Electronic Travel Authorisation requirement still applies to everyone entering any part of the UK including Northern Ireland, unless you are exempt (British/Irish citizen or qualifying Irish resident).
Avoid Scam Websites Only Use Official Sources
Only ever apply through the official UK ETA app or the GOV.UK website. Third-party sites often charge much higher fees and some are fraudulent.
Check your ETA status anytime using the official service:
View and prove your Electronic Travel Authorisation status GOV.UK
If you think you have been scammed, report it immediately on GOV.UK.
Latest ETA Statistics
Over 19.6 million ETA have been granted since the scheme began in October 2023.
Regularly updated figures are published here:
Electronic Travel Authorisation statistics GOV.UK
For the most up-to-date guidance fees and to apply always visit the official pages on GOV.UK.
Safe Travel!
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