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UK ETA Requirements 2026: Who Needs It And How To Apply
Starting from 25 February 2026, visitors will need a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to travel to the UK if they do not have a British or Irish passport, or if they do not have permission to live, work or study in the UK.
If you’re planning to visit the UK after this date, it is essential that you apply for a UK ETA to be eligible to enter the UK and avoid disruption at the border.
This guide will explain who needs a UK ETA, how to apply, the costs and how it differs from a visa.
What is the UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation)?
The UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) is a form of digital permission to travel. It authorises a person to travel to the UK and must be obtained before boarding a flight or other transport to the UK.
An ETA is:
- Digitally linked to your passport
- Required before travelling to the UK
- Not a visa
A UK ETA will last for two years or until your passport expires (whichever comes sooner), and you can travel to the UK as many times as you want while you have a valid ETA. As the UK ETA is linked to the passport you applied with, you will only need to show your passport when you travel to the UK.
Who needs a UK ETA?
Travellers who do not have UK citizenship or a UK visa will need to obtain a UK ETA before travelling to the UK.
Travellers who need a UK ETA will typically include:
- EU nationals
- EEA citizens
- Visitors from the USA, Australia and Canada
- Visa-exempt nationalities
- Short-term business visitors
Because eligibility may vary by nationality, travellers should check official guidance before booking travel.
Who does NOT need a UK ETA?
You do not need a UK ETA if you:
- Are a British or Irish citizen
- Hold a valid UK visa
- Have UK settled or pre-settled status
- Have permission to live, work or study in the UK
- Are travelling with a British overseas territories citizen passport
- Are travelling with a British National (Overseas) passport
- Are transiting through a UK airport and will not pass through border control – you can check with your airline if you are not sure
If you are a dual citizen who has British or Irish citizenship, then you do not need and cannot obtain a UK ETA. You should travel with a valid British or Irish passport when entering or returning to the UK in order to prove your citizenship.
You can learn more about who does not need a UK ETA by visiting the Gov UK website.
What is the difference between a UK ETA vs UK Visa?
A UK ETA is a form of digital permission to travel to the UK, which allows you to visit the UK for short stays (usually up to 6 months). It is designed for low-risk travellers who do not normally require a visa but must now obtain advance approval before arriving to the UK.
A UK visa is an official document that allows you to work, study long-term or settle in the UK (beyond 6 months). Visa applications are more detailed, may require supporting documents and biometric appointments, and grant specific immigration permission.
Key Differences
UK ETA
- Required for visa-exempt travellers
- For short stays (tourism, business visits, transit)
- Applied for online and linked digitally to your passport
- Does not allow work or long-term residence in the UK
UK Visa
- Required for visa-controlled nationals
- Needed for work, long-term study or UK settlement
- Involves a more detailed application and supporting documents
- Grants formal immigration permission
How to apply for a UK ETA
You can apply for the UK ETA using the official UK government website here.
The process typically involves:
- Completing an online form
- Uploading passport details
- Providing biometric information (where required)
- Paying the application fee
Applicants will receive confirmation electronically once approved.
How much does a UK ETA cost?
An ETA costs £16.
How long does UK ETA approval take?
You will be emailed a decision about your ETA approval within one to three working days.
Preparing for UK Travel in 2026 and beyond
The introduction of the UK ETA from 25 February 2026 marks a significant shift in how visa-exempt travellers enter the UK. While the process is designed to be straightforward, it introduces an essential pre-travel compliance step that cannot be overlooked for both business and leisure travellers.
To avoid disruption:
- Apply for your UK ETA as soon as travel is confirmed and before departure
- Ensure your passport is valid for travel
- Keep ETA digital confirmation accessible just in case
Early preparation is key. Apply for your UK ETA as soon as possible for a smooth entry into the UK in 2026 and beyond.
