Hey, if you’re planning a trip to the UK anytime soon—whether for a holiday in London, visiting family in Manchester, or a quick business jaunt—you’ve probably heard whispers about this new thing called the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). It’s the UK’s version of those pre-approval systems like the US ESTA or Canada’s eTA, and as of early 2026, it’s no longer optional for most visitors. Think of it as a quick digital “okay” from the Home Office before you even board your flight. No more just showing up with your passport and hoping for the best.
In this guide, we’ll break down exactly what the UK ETA is, who needs it, how to get one, and why it’s such a big deal right now. We’ll also touch on a super important related change: why dual British citizens must use British passport to enter UK from February 2026 to avoid major headaches. Let’s dive in so you can travel smarter, not harder.
What Is the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)?
At its core, the ETA is a digital permission that lets eligible visitors travel to the UK for short stays—usually up to 6 months—for tourism, seeing family, short business trips, or even transiting through certain airports. It’s not a visa; it’s lighter and faster, designed for people from countries that traditionally don’t need a full visa for brief visits.
The UK rolled it out gradually starting back in 2023, but things got real in January 2026. From 8 January 2026, it became compulsory for visa-waiver nationals (those 85+ countries like the US, Canada, Australia, EU nations, Japan, and more). And from 25 February 2026, the “no permission, no travel” rule kicks in hard—airlines, ferries, and rail operators will face fines if they let anyone board without a valid ETA (or other permission like a visa or eVisa). It’s the government’s way of modernising the border: more secure, faster processing, and fewer queues.
Imagine it like a background check before your holiday begins. You apply online, answer a few questions, pay a small fee, and boom—it’s linked to your passport digitally. Most approvals happen in minutes, but always apply at least 72 hours ahead just in case.
Who Needs a UK ETA in 2026?
Pretty much anyone from a non-visa national country who wants to visit the UK for up to 6 months and doesn’t already have some form of UK immigration permission. That includes:
- Citizens of the United States
- Canadians
- Australians and New Zealanders
- Most EU/EEA countries (post-Brexit change)
- Japan, South Korea, Brazil, UAE, Saudi Arabia, and dozens more
If you’re from one of those 85 nationalities and planning tourism, family visits, short business, or even transiting (if you go through passport control), you need an ETA.
Key exemptions — you don’t need one if:
- You’re a British or Irish citizen (including dual nationals)
- You already hold a UK visa, eVisa, or immigration status (like settled/pre-settled under the EU Settlement Scheme)
- You’re exempt from immigration control for other reasons
Babies, kids, and even elderly travellers all need their own ETA if they fall into the requiring group. No family group applications—everyone gets their own.
How to Apply for a UK ETA: Step-by-Step Guide
The process is super straightforward and 100% digital—no paper forms or embassy visits. Here’s the lowdown:
- Go official — Use the UK ETA app (available on iOS and Android) or head straight to GOV.UK. Skip third-party sites that charge extra; they often look official but aren’t.
- Upload your details — You’ll need a valid passport (scan the photo page), a recent face photo (selfie works), and your contact info.
- Answer the questions — A short set on criminal history, travel bans, etc. Be honest—it’s all checked against global databases.
- Pay up — £16 (about $20 USD depending on exchange rates). One-time fee.
- Wait — Most get approved within minutes or hours. You’ll get a confirmation email and the ETA links electronically to your passport—no sticker or printout needed.
Your ETA lasts 2 years or until your passport expires (whichever comes first), and you can make multiple trips during that time as long as each stay is under 6 months.
Pro tip: Always apply using the same passport you’ll travel with. And double-check everything—mistakes can lead to refusals.
Costs, Validity, and What Happens If It’s Refused?
- Cost: £16 per person. Super affordable compared to many visas.
- Validity: 2 years or passport expiry—plenty of time for repeat visits.
- Refusal: Rare for most people, but if denied, there’s no appeal. You might need to apply for a full visa instead. Reasons usually involve security flags or past issues.
Remember, an approved ETA is just permission to travel—border officers can still refuse entry on arrival if something doesn’t add up.
The Big Change Coming: Dual British Citizens and the February 2026 Deadline
Here’s where things get interesting for a specific group. British and Irish citizens (including those with dual nationality) are fully exempt from needing an ETA. But that exemption creates a catch for dual British citizens.
From 25 February 2026, the strict carrier checks mean airlines will deny boarding if the system expects an ETA (based on the passport you’re using) but sees none. Dual Brits can’t apply for an ETA—they’re ineligible.
That’s why dual British citizens must use British passport to enter UK from February 2026. If you’re a British-Australian, British-Canadian, British-American, or British-EU national, using your foreign passport alone will flag as “no ETA” and block you from boarding. The fix? Travel with your valid British passport (or a Certificate of Entitlement to the right of abode in your foreign one).
Until 24 February 2026, there’s still some transitional flexibility, but after that date, it’s strict. Many dual nationals are rushing to renew expired British passports now to avoid drama. The Home Office is crystal clear: get that British document sorted to sail through smoothly.
Why This Matters for Your Next UK Trip
The ETA isn’t just bureaucracy—it’s part of a bigger shift toward a fully digital UK border by 2027. Faster e-gates, better security screening, and smoother experiences for the millions visiting each year. But it does mean planning ahead is non-negotiable.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor from the US dreaming of Big Ben or a frequent flyer popping over from Paris, get your ETA (if required) early. And if you’re a dual British citizen, remember: dual British citizens must use British passport to enter UK from February 2026—it’s the key to hassle-free entry.
The UK remains welcoming, but now it’s welcoming with a quick digital handshake first.
Safe travels—hope to see you enjoying a proper British cuppa soon!
Conclusion
The UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) has transformed how millions enter the country in 2026. It’s simple, cheap, and quick for eligible visitors, but mandatory from 25 February onward. For most, it’s a minor step that makes travel smoother. For dual British citizens, it underscores the need to use the right passport. Stay prepared, check official sources, and you’ll be set for an amazing UK adventure.
For official details, check these trusted resources:
FAQ :
1. Who needs a UK ETA?
Visa-waiver nationals (e.g., US, Canada, Australia, EU citizens) travelling to the UK for up to 6 months for tourism, family visits, short business, or transit. British and Irish citizens are exempt.
2. How much does a UK ETA cost and how long is it valid?
It costs £16 per person. Once approved, it’s valid for 2 years or until your passport expires (whichever comes first), allowing multiple short visits.
3. When must I apply for a UK ETA?
Apply at least 72 hours before travel. From 25 February 2026, you must have a valid ETA (or other permission) to board your flight/train/ferry to the UK.
4. Can dual British citizens get an ETA?
No. Dual British citizens are exempt from needing an ETA, but dual British citizens must use British passport to enter UK from February 2026 to avoid boarding issues.
5. Where do I apply for a UK ETA?
Only use the official GOV.UK website or the UK ETA app (iOS/Android). Avoid third-party websites that charge extra fees.
