UK Travel Is Changing: ETA Mandatory From February 25, Fees Set to Increase

If you’re planning a short trip to the United Kingdom, there’s one thing you can’t ignore anymore: the Electronic Travel Authorisation, or ETA. Starting from February 25, 2026, the ETA will be compulsory for all visa-free visitors travelling to the UK for stays of up to six months. There will be no exceptions or grace period left.

Until now, travellers, especially from Europe, had some flexibility. That window is closing fast.

No ETA, No Boarding

Once the deadline hits, travellers from 84 visa-exempt countries and territories must have an approved ETA before flying to the UK.

Airlines will check for it before boarding. If you don’t have one, you won’t be allowed on the plane. Even if you somehow arrive, you won’t be allowed to enter the country.

This applies whether you’re heading to London, Edinburgh, Cardiff, or Belfast.

Another ETA Fee Increase Is Coming

The ETA is already more expensive than when it first launched. In April 2025, the fee went up from £10 to £16. Now, the UK government has confirmed that another increase is planned.

The new fee of UK ETA will be £20, roughly US$27.

There’s no fixed date yet, but officials have clearly said the increase is coming. The change has already been approved by Parliament and the Treasury as part of a wider update to immigration fees.

If you know you’ll travel to the UK in the future, applying sooner could save you money.

ETA Will Also Apply to Jersey, Guernsey, and the Isle of Man

It is worth noting here that the higher fee will not only apply to the UK mainland. The same ETA system is being extended to Jersey, Guernsey, and the Isle of Man. These territories are gradually joining the programme, and travellers should expect the same rules and costs.

What the UK ETA Allows You to Do

The ETA is a multi-entry travel authorisation. It allows you to visit the UK for up to six months at a time and remains valid for two years, or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.

You don’t need to apply again for each trip during that period, as long as your passport stays valid.

How to Apply for a UK ETA

The process is fully digital.

Most people apply using the UK ETA mobile app. If you don’t have a smartphone, you can apply through the official GOV.UK website.

According to the government, many applications are approved within minutes. Still, travellers are advised to apply at least three working days before travel in case extra checks are needed.

Why the UK Introduced the ETA

The ETA allows UK border authorities to screen travellers before they arrive.

Applicants provide basic personal details, passport information, and answer background questions. This helps officials assess eligibility and flag security concerns early.

Similar systems already exist in the United States, Canada, and Australia. The European Union is also preparing to launch its own version.

Transit Rules You Should Know

If you pass through UK passport control during transit, you need an ETA.

However, travellers transiting through airports like Heathrow or Manchester without clearing passport control do not need one.

Rules can vary by airport and route, so it’s worth checking before you fly.

Who Is Exempt From the ETA

British and Irish citizens do not need an ETA.

Some legal residents of Ireland are also exempt under the Common Travel Area rules.

If you hold dual British nationality, travel with your British passport. This helps avoid delays or extra checks at the border.

Nearly 20 Million ETAs Already Issued

The system isn’t new, and it’s already widely used.

Since its launch in October 2023 through September 2025, the UK government has issued about 19.6 million ETAs.

That number is only expected to rise as the requirement becomes fully enforced in 2026.

Final Thoughts

If you’re eligible for a visa-free entry and planning to visit the UK after February 25, 2026, the ETA is not optional. Apply early, budget for a higher fee, and double-check the rules before booking your flight. It’s a small step, but skipping it could stop your trip before it even starts.