By Enitan Abdultawab
The United Kingdom is set to fully enforce its Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system from February 25, 2026, a move that will prevent eligible visa-exempt visitors from travelling without prior approval.
UK authorities have warned that travellers who fail to secure an ETA before departure risk being stopped at the point of boarding, whether by air, rail or sea.
The warning was issued by UK Visas and Immigration, an agency of the Home Office, in a statement shared on X.
“From 25 February 2026, eligible visitors to the UK can’t legally travel without an Electronic Travel Authorisation,” the Home Office said, urging travellers to complete the process ahead of time through the official GOV.UK website or the UK ETA mobile application.
The ETA scheme is part of the UK government’s broader push to digitise its immigration and border control system, with the aim of enhancing security while streamlining short-term travel into the country. It introduces mandatory pre-travel clearance for nationals of about 85 countries who currently do not need a visa to enter the UK for short stays.
Citizens of countries such as the United States, Canada, France and several other European nations fall within the scheme. Nigerians are excluded, as they already require a visa to enter the UK.
From the enforcement date, airlines, ferry operators and train companies will be legally obliged to confirm that passengers hold a valid ETA before allowing them to travel, replacing the current system of discretionary checks.
The authorisation applies to non-visa nationals visiting the UK for tourism, business or short-term study of up to six months. British and Irish citizens, including those with dual nationality, are exempt, although they are advised to carry proof of citizenship, such as a valid British passport or Certificate of Entitlement, to avoid delays. Holders of UK residency permits or eVisas are also exempt.
An ETA currently costs £16 and remains valid for multiple entries over two years or until the holder’s passport expires, whichever comes first. The UK government has indicated that the fee could increase to £20 at a later date.
Applications can be completed online via GOV.UK or through the official UK ETA app. Applicants must provide passport details, contact information and responses to security-related questions. While approvals are often granted within minutes, authorities recommend applying at least three days before travel to avoid disruptions.
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