UK to Require Digital Travel Authorisation for Visitors From 85 Countries Starting February 2026

Travellers from 85 countries — including the US, Canada and France — will not be allowed entry into the United Kingdom without a digital travel authorisation from February 25, 2026, the UK Home Office has announced.

Under the new rules, visitors must obtain either an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) or an eVisa before boarding their flight, as part of Britain’s plan to fully digitise its borders and strengthen security.

UK Migration and Citizenship Minister Mike Tapp said the system will help block potential threats “before they ever set foot in the country” while ensuring smoother travel for millions of visitors.

Since its rollout in October 2023, the ETA system has processed over 13.3 million applications. Beginning early 2026, it will become mandatory for all eligible nationalities.

Airlines must verify that passengers have a valid ETA or eVisa before boarding, and travellers without one may be stopped even before departure.

Applications must be submitted through the official UK ETA app, with a fee of £16. Most approvals arrive within minutes, though the government recommends applying at least three working days in advance.

British and Irish nationals are exempt, but dual British citizens are urged to carry a valid British passport or certificate of entitlement to avoid travel issues.

The UK joins countries such as the US and Canada, which already require similar pre-arrival authorisation for visa-exempt travellers.