This is a post about what you need about UK travel ETA in 2026.
If you’re planning a trip to the UK, there’s one extra step you need to add to your pre-travel checklist: the Electronic Travel Authorisation, or ETA. The UK rolled out this new entry requirement gradually from 2023 and, as of February 2026, it’s now strictly enforced, meaning no ETA, no boarding.
The good news? It’s quick, straightforward and done entirely online. Here’s everything you need to know.
What Is the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)?
The ETA is a digital permission to travel to the UK, designed to enhance border security by pre-screening travellers before they arrive. It is mandatory for visa-exempt nationals visiting the UK for short stays of up to six months for purposes such as tourism, business, short-term study or permitted paid engagements.
Who Needs to Apply for an ETA?
As of April 2025, the ETA requirement covers nationals from 83 countries and territories, including the US, Canada, Australia and Brazil, as well as all European Union citizens. It also now applies to travel to Jersey, Guernsey and the Isle of Man, which joined the scheme in April 2026.
Exemptions include:
- British and Irish citizens
- individuals with a valid UK visa
- residents of Ireland travelling from within the Common Travel Area
READ MORE: How to Plan Your First Trip Abroad: A Step-by-Step Guide
How to Apply for an ETA
Applications can be submitted online or via the UK ETA app. The process involves providing personal and passport details, contact information and answering security-related questions. Applicants will also need to upload a passport photo and a recent photograph of themselves.
Processing Time and Validity
Most applicants now receive an automatic decision within minutes when applying through the UK ETA app, though you should allow up to three working days to be safe and apply well in advance of your travel date. Once approved, the ETA is electronically linked to your passport and is valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. It allows multiple entries during its valid period.
Cost of the ETA
The ETA application fee is currently £20 per person, including children. The fee is non-refundable regardless of the outcome. It’s worth noting the fee has risen quickly since the scheme launched; from £10 at launch in 2023, to £16 in April 2025, to £20 in April 2026, so it’s worth applying sooner rather than later if you’re planning a trip.
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Important Considerations
- Strictly enforced since February 2026: From 25 February 2026, travellers without a valid ETA cannot board any transport bound for the UK. Airlines, ferries and train operators are now legally required to check, so don’t leave this until the last minute.
- Not a visa: The ETA grants permission to travel to the UK but does not guarantee entry. Border Force officers make the final decision on arrival.
- Stay duration: The ETA allows stays of up to six months for tourism, business or short-term study.
- Each traveller needs their own: There are no family or group discounts. A family of four pays £80 in total.
- Use official channels only: Only apply via the UK ETA app or GOV.UK. Third-party websites may charge significantly more.
READ MORE: 8 Travel Tips and Tricks to Make Your Planning Easier
Upcoming Changes in European Travel
In addition to the UK’s ETA, if you’re planning to travel beyond the UK and into Europe, you’ll also need to be aware of the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS). Similar to the UK ETA, ETIAS will require non-EU citizens, including Americans, Canadians and Australians, to obtain travel authorisation before visiting Schengen Area countries. It will cost 7€ and is valid for three years. The current planned launch date is sometime later this year in Q4.
Like the UK ETA, it’s a quick online application and not a visa, just an extra pre-travel step that’s become part of the new normal for international travel.
Disclaimer
These types of information can change at any moment! So DO check official sources to confirm.
