UK Mandates ETA for 85 Countries The United Kingdom is introducing a new rule that will affect travellers from 85 countries, including the US, Canada, Japan, and France. Starting from February 25, 2026, travellers from these nations will need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before entering the UK. This new requirement applies to all visa-exempt visitors, and airlines will be required to check for a valid ETA before allowing passengers to board.
What Is the UK ETA?
The UK ETA functions similarly to the US ESTA or Canada’s eTA. It allows travellers to visit the UK for short trips—such as tourism, business, or transit—without needing a traditional visa. Since its launch in October 2023, over 13 million travellers have applied for the ETA. The Home Office states that the system improves border security while simplifying entry for legitimate travellers.
Why the ETA Is Being Introduced
Mike Tapp, the UK Minister for Migration and Citizenship, explained that the ETA provides authorities with greater control over who enters the country. Digital checks help to prevent potential risks and streamline the immigration process for legitimate visitors.
How to Apply for the UK ETA
Application Process:
Applications can be completed online via the official UK ETA website or mobile app (available for iOS and Android).
Cost:
The ETA costs £16 per person.
Processing Time:
Most applications are processed within minutes, but travellers should apply at least three days before their travel date in case additional checks are required.
Validity:
The ETA is linked to your passport and is valid for multiple short visits to the UK.
Countries Requiring the ETA
Travellers from the following countries must apply for the UK ETA before their visit in 2026:
- Andorra
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Argentina
- Australia
- Austria
- Bahamas
- Bahrain
- Barbados
- Belgium
- Belize
- Brazil
- Brunei
- Bulgaria
- Canada
- Chile
- Costa Rica
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Grenada
- Guatemala
- Guyana
- Hong Kong
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Israel
- Italy
- Japan
- Kiribati
- Kuwait
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Macao
- Malaysia
- Maldives
- Malta
- Marshall Islands
- Mauritius
- Mexico
- Micronesia
- Monaco
- Nauru
- Netherlands
- New Zealand
- Nicaragua
- Norway
- Oman
- Palau
- Panama
- Papua New Guinea
- Paraguay
- Peru
- Poland
- Portugal
- Qatar
- Romania
- Saint Kitts and Nevis
- Saint Lucia
- Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
- Samoa
- San Marino
- Saudi Arabia
- Seychelles
- Singapore
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Solomon Islands
- South Korea
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Tonga
- Tuvalu
- United Arab Emirates
- United States
- Uruguay
- Vatican City
Key Details for Travellers
- Effective Date: February 25, 2026
- Cost: £16 per application
- Validity: Linked to passport for multiple short visits
- Processing Time: Usually minutes, but up to 3 days
- Application Channels: Apply through the official UK ETA website or mobile app
If you’re from one of the listed countries and have previously entered the UK without a visa, be sure to apply for your ETA ahead of time. Failure to do so could result in denied boarding or entry.
Conclusion
UK mandatory ETA requirement for 85 countries, starting February 2026, aims to enhance border security while simplifying travel for legitimate visitors. Travellers must apply for an ETA online or via the app ahead of their trip to avoid delays or denied entry.
