Important update on the UK’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system
The UK government continues the roll-out of its Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system which will be strictly enforced from 25 February 2026. This system was first introduced in 2023 and has been rolled out in different phases.
Up to now the system has not been strictly enforced to allow time for travellers to prepare. But from 25 February 2026 UK Visas and Immigration will be requiring all eligible travellers to hold an ETA.
This news article aims to answer most of the key questions around the ETA system.
What is an ETA?
An ETA is a digital permission to travel. It is not actually a visa and doesn’t guarantee entry to the UK. Travellers are still subject to immigration control upon arriving in the UK. Essentially, an ETA authorises a person to travel to the UK.
Who needs an ETA?
Anyone travelling to the UK for a visit of up to 6 months who does not need an actual visit visa will need to secure an ETA. Currently, passport holders from over 90 different countries require an ETA. See; https://www.gov.uk/guidance/check-when-you-can-get-an-electronic-travel-authorisation-eta
Who doesn’t need an ETA?
If you are from a country that is not on the ETA list then you will need a secure an actual visit visa to travel. Furthermore, anyone already holding a UK visa for another purpose (such as a spouse visa or work visa) will not need an ETA. They should continue to use their current visa for travel.
British and Irish citizens
British and Irish citizens are not eligible for an ETA. They need to use their British or Irish passport for travel.
Dual British citizens
Anyone who is a dual British citizen and citizen of another country cannot obtain an ETA. They cannot use their other passport to enter the UK. They can only enter the UK on their British passport (or Irish passport). Accordingly, UK Visas and Immigration are advising all dual British citizens overseas to make sure that they have a current up to date British passport, as they are ineligible for an ETA on their other passport.
Furthermore, even if you or a child born overseas has never held a British passport, you may still be a British citizen and therefore ineligible to obtain an ETA. For information on who is a British citizen, see https://www.gov.uk/check-british-citizenship
How much does an ETA cost?
The current fee is £16.
How long is an ETA valid for?
An ETA lasts for 2 years or until your passport expires, whichever is sooner.
How do I apply for an ETA?
UK Visas and Immigration advise to apply for an ETA is through the ‘UK ETA app’, which can be downloaded from the Google Play or Apple App Store. Alternatively, you can apply on GOV.UK if you do not have access to a smartphone.
How long does it take for an ETA to be processed?
Applicants usually get a decision within three working days but may get a quicker decision if they use the UK ETA app. To apply for an ETA, applicants need to: Pay the fee, provide contact and passport details, provide a valid photo, answer a set of questions
Where can I find more information?
See https://www.gov.uk/eta
Commonwealth Immigration Consultants
Authorised for UK immigration advice by the Immigration Advice Authority (Registration Number F200100020)
www.commonwealthimmigration.com