From today, 25 February 2026, the UK is enforcing digital permission to travel. Carriers must verify that passengers hold an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), a visa or other valid permission before departure; without it, boarding will be refused. (homeofficemedia.blog.gov.uk)
Non-visa nationals from 85 countries-including the United States, Canada and France-now require an ETA for short visits. The requirement is set out in the Immigration Rules (Appendix ETA National List, updated 8 January 2026). (gov.uk)
An ETA costs £16, permits multiple trips and lasts for two years or until passport expiry, whichever is sooner. The permission is digitally linked to the passport used for the application. (gov.uk)
British and Irish citizens, including dual nationals, do not need an ETA. When travelling, carriers will expect a British passport or a Certificate of Entitlement to confirm status; the Home Office has also issued temporary guidance allowing carriers, at their discretion, to accept certain expired British passports as alternative proof. (gov.uk)
Transit rules are unchanged in principle: travellers who enter the UK through passport control during a connection require an ETA; those who remain airside at Heathrow or Manchester do not currently need one. Passengers should confirm with their airline whether their itinerary involves clearing border control. (homeofficemedia.blog.gov.uk)
Applications can be made via the UK ETA app or online portal. UK Visas and Immigration indicates most decisions arrive within a day, and travellers should allow up to three working days. Applications require biographic and biometric details; once granted, the ETA is attached to the holder’s passport. (gov.uk)
Since October 2023, more than 19 million ETA applications have been processed, generating over £383 million for reinvestment in border and immigration operations. Ministers frame the scheme as a step towards a future contactless border. (gov.uk)
From 26 February 2026, the Certificate of Entitlement to the right of abode moves to a digital record accessed through a UKVI account. Holders will no longer need to reapply when their foreign passport expires; instead they must update their account so the digital certificate links to the new passport. The change is given legal effect by regulations commencing on 26 February. (gov.uk)
The shift sits within a wider migration to eVisas. People with digital status are advised to keep their UKVI account and passport details up to date to avoid disruption when travelling. (gov.uk)
Practical next steps: prospective visitors should consult the national list in the Immigration Rules and apply for an ETA at least three working days before departure. British and Irish citizens should travel with a British or Irish passport, while those relying on right of abode should ensure their certificate is available-now in digital form from 26 February. Operators are required to check permission to travel before boarding. (gov.uk)