Published on
December 7, 2025
Tourists planning to visit the United Kingdom will soon face a significant change in entry requirements. Starting February 2026, all travellers from 85 visa-exempt countries will be required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before entering the UK. This new policy is designed to streamline travel, enhance security, and create a more efficient system for both visitors and immigration authorities.
The decision, announced by the UK Home Office, comes as part of a broader shift towards digitising travel processes. The ETA system aims to pre-screen visitors before they even board their flights, ensuring a smoother and quicker experience upon arrival in the UK. This move is expected to benefit the UK’s tourism sector by providing a more secure, predictable, and faster entry process for millions of international visitors.
Why the UK is Introducing the ETA System
The UK government’s decision to implement the ETA requirement is not only about improving security but also about boosting tourism and creating a more seamless experience for international travellers. By requiring visitors to apply for a digital permit before they travel, authorities can pre-emptively screen all arrivals, helping to prevent potential issues before they reach the border. This shift is part of the UK’s broader goal to modernise its border management system and improve immigration control.
The UK Home Office has emphasized that this will not be a visa for most tourists. Instead, it is an easy-to-apply digital system that allows travellers to receive permission to enter the UK without the need for a traditional visa. This change will allow UK authorities to better manage immigration, ensuring that visitors can be cleared for entry in advance, reducing delays at immigration counters and making the entire process faster for everyone.
How the ETA System Works
The ETA system, which is already operational but will be mandatory from February 2026, is a straightforward process. Travellers from eligible countries will need to apply online through the official UK website or ETA application portal. The application requires basic personal details, travel plans, and passport information, and applicants will be asked to pay a £16 fee.
Once approved, the ETA is linked to the traveller’s passport and remains valid for up to two years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. The ETA will allow multiple entries into the UK during that period, with each stay limited to a maximum of six months. This ensures that tourists and business visitors can return to the UK for future trips without having to reapply for another ETA each time.
Who Needs the ETA?
The ETA is mandatory for all visitors from 85 countries that are currently allowed to travel to the UK visa-free. This includes citizens of the United States, Canada, Australia, Japan, South Korea, and most European Union countries. However, some exceptions will apply. Citizens of the UK, Ireland, and holders of valid UK visas will not need an ETA to enter the country.
The UK government has made it clear that airlines and other travel carriers will be responsible for ensuring that passengers have the correct documentation before boarding. This will make it even more crucial for travellers to apply for their ETA ahead of time to avoid any disruptions to their travel plans.
How This Impacts UK Tourism
The introduction of the ETA system is likely to have a significant impact on UK tourism. Although it may initially cause some disruption as travellers adjust to the new requirement, once the system is fully operational, it could lead to faster processing times at UK airports, reducing long queues and wait times. This streamlined process could make the UK a more attractive destination for tourists, as it will be easier for visitors to enter and explore the country.
Furthermore, the ETA system aligns with global trends in digital immigration processes, and it may encourage other countries to adopt similar measures. The UK is positioning itself as a leader in travel efficiency, which will likely enhance its reputation as a welcoming and well-managed destination for international visitors.
Preparing for the New ETA Requirement
Travellers planning to visit the UK in 2026 and beyond should ensure they apply for their ETA well in advance of their trip. The application process is simple and quick, and it can be completed online. By doing so, tourists will not only comply with the new regulations but also avoid any potential delays at the airport.
Travel agents, tour operators, and airlines will also need to update their processes to accommodate the new ETA requirement. This may include ensuring that their customers are aware of the new rule and helping them through the application process if needed. As awareness of the ETA grows, the UK’s tourism industry will likely see a positive boost from the enhanced visitor experience.
Starting in February 2026, the UK’s new Electronic Travel Authorisation system will change the way tourists enter the country. This digital travel permit will not only streamline the entry process but also enhance security, helping to make the UK a more attractive destination for international travellers. With the new system set to be in full effect soon, tourists should ensure they apply for their ETA ahead of their trip to avoid any travel disruptions. The future of UK tourism is digital, and this new policy represents a step towards a smoother, more efficient travel experience for all.
