UK ETA Enforcement from 25 February 2026: What Travellers Need to Know

What Is Changing Under UK ETA Rules in February 2026?

1. Mandatory Boarding Checks 

From 25 February 2026, airlines, ferry operators, and international rail providers will be legally required to deny boarding to travellers from non-visa countries who do not have:

• A valid ETA, or
• A  valid UK eVisa linked to their passport

2. End of the Transitional "Soft Launch"

While the ETA system has been rolled out in phases since 2023, the UK Home Office will move from a "soft launch" to full UK ETA enforcement from 25 February, 2026. Carriers will have no discretion to allow travel without valid permission once the new rules apply.

3. Strict Rules for Dual Citizens 

Dual British or Irish citizens who typically travel on a non-UK or non-Irish passport must hold:

• A valid British or Irish passport, or
• A Certificate of Entitlement

From February 2026, dual British or Irish citizens will no longer be permitted to rely on another nationality’s passport without one of the above documents, as they are not eligible for a UK ETA.

UK ETA Key Facts for 2026

• Cost: £16 per person, including children and infants

• Validity: Valid for 2 years or until passport expiry, whichever comes first

• Who Needs an ETA: Nationals of approximately 85 visa-exempt countries, including The United States, Canada, Australia, Japan and all EU Member States. An ETA is required for:

• • Short visits of up to 6 months, or

  • Transiting through the UK

Nationals from these countries are not visa-exempt and must continue to apply for a UK visa before travelling and will not require an ETA before travelling.

Who Does Not Need an ETA?

You do not need an ETA if you hold:

• A valid British or Irish passport

• A valid UK visa.

• A digital immigration status (eVisa), including settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme

UK ETA Enforcement: Implications of Non-Compliance for Travellers and Employers

Failure to comply with the ETA requirement will result in travellers being stopped at check-in, which may lead to:

• Missed flights or connections

• Financial loss

• Disrupted business, study, or family plans

Employers, HR teams, and international travellers should ensure that ETA checks are carried out well in advance of travel.

What Should Travellers Do Now?

To avoid disruption:

• Check whether your nationality requires an ETA
• Apply well in advance of travel
• Ensure your passport remains valid for the full ETA period
• Dual nationals should confirm they hold the correct passport or entitlement