As of February 2026, the UK government will be fully enforcing the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system for visitors from 85 visa-exempt countries. This includes travelers from regions such as North America, Europe, and Australia, who previously could enter the UK without a visa for short stays. Starting on February 25, 2026, tourists from these countries will be required to apply for an ETA before boarding their flight to the UK.

This significant shift aims to enhance the UK’s border security, ensuring smoother travel management, and collecting biometric data for all non-UK visitors. Along with this change, the UK has also increased the ETA application fee from £16 to £20, making it more expensive for international travelers. These updates are set to change how millions of people approach their travel plans in the coming years.

What Is the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)?

The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a digital travel document required for non-UK nationals from 85 countries wishing to visit the UK for tourism, business, or family visits. The new system will replace the traditional visa waiver program that allowed citizens of these countries to enter the UK without pre-arranged travel authorization. With the ETA, travelers will need to submit biometric data, including their fingerprints and facial recognition, upon arrival.

The move toward a more automated system follows similar initiatives in other countries and regions aiming to strengthen security while facilitating smoother travel for eligible visitors. The UK’s goal is to digitize border control processes, reduce wait times, and make travel safer for everyone.

New Fee Structure and Increased Costs for Travelers

In addition to the stricter enforcement of the ETA requirement, the UK government has also raised the application fee for the ETA. The fee has increased to £20, up from the previously lower £16. This change was officially confirmed by the UK government as part of its broader strategy to enhance its border security infrastructure. The £20 fee will apply to all new ETA applications, effective immediately after the enforcement date in February 2026.

Travel experts are noting that this fee hike comes in line with the UK’s increasing digital border operations, which include the biometric system and other necessary investments to modernize immigration processing. While travelers may be frustrated by the additional cost, the fee is still lower than the cost of a traditional visa, making it more accessible for those needing to visit the UK.

Stricter Enforcement of ETA: What Does It Mean for Travelers?

From February 25, 2026, any eligible traveler from one of the 85 participating countries who does not have an approved ETA before traveling to the UK will not be allowed to board their flight. This means that travelers need to ensure their ETA applications are completed and approved before arriving at the airport. The UK government has emphasized that this new requirement will be enforced by airlines, which will have the responsibility to check whether passengers have the appropriate documentation in place.

This marks a major change for tourists who are used to traveling to the UK without any extra paperwork or prior approvals. Without an ETA, there will be no exception or entry granted, and travelers will have to wait until they secure the required authorization. The strict enforcement of the ETA requirement is designed to minimize issues at border control and to ensure travelers’ information is pre-screened for safety and security.

Who Will Be Affected by the ETA Requirement?

The new ETA requirement will apply to citizens from 85 countries, including many popular travel destinations like the United States, Canada, Australia, and Japan. Visitors from Schengen Area countries will also be affected, with the UK now imposing the same pre-travel authorization requirement as several other countries within the region. These travelers will be required to apply for an ETA well in advance of their trip to avoid issues when it’s time to board their flight.

The UK government has noted that the ETA system will not apply to UK and Irish citizens, and it will not impact visa holders who are coming to the UK with an existing visa, which remains unaffected by these changes. Similarly, people with permanent UK residency or those who have indefinite leave to remain in the UK will not need to apply for an ETA.

How to Apply for the UK ETA

The process to apply for the UK ETA is entirely digital. Travelers can visit the official UK ETA website or use the UK ETA mobile application to submit their biometric data and personal information. Applications are typically processed quickly, with most applicants receiving their ETA approval within minutes. Travelers are advised to apply at least 72 hours before travel to avoid any delays in receiving approval.

For those planning on traveling to the UK frequently, the ETA allows for multiple entries over a two‑year period, provided the traveler meets the necessary criteria. This makes the process more efficient for repeat visitors, eliminating the need for new applications every time.

The Impact of the ETA System: What to Expect in the Future

The new ETA requirements and the increased application fee represent a significant shift in the UK’s approach to travel and border management. Travelers will need to factor the ETA fee and approval process into their trip planning, especially if they are traveling during busy periods.

As the UK continues to modernize its immigration system, further changes may come to pass. These could include additional biometric data collection, as well as increased visa enforcement systems. The introduction of the ETA system is just one part of the UK’s broader efforts to streamline travel while enhancing security for all incoming travelers.

What’s Next for the UK ETA System?

As February 2026 approaches, travelers need to stay informed about the new ETA regulations to avoid delays or issues at the airport. Those traveling from visa-exempt countries must ensure their ETA applications are submitted in advance, and they should be prepared for the £20 fee for processing.

While the UK aims to simplify travel for eligible travelers, the implementation of these new rules underscores the growing importance of pre-arrival security in global travel. The future of UK border security will likely see more innovations in this direction, as countries around the world continue to digitize and modernize their entry systems.

The UK’s new ETA system represents a significant shift in how the country handles entry requirements for international visitors. With the increase in the ETA fee and the enforcement of strict pre-travel authorization rules, travelers from 85 countries will need to be well-prepared before heading to the UK. As the rules come into full effect in February 2026, ensuring smooth travel depends on staying informed and following the new digital visa application process.