No permission, no travel: UK set to enforce ETA scheme

From 25 February 2026, visitors will not be able to travel to the UK without advance permission.

Visitors from 85 nationalities (except British and Irish citizens), including the United States, Canada, and France, who do not need a visa will not be able to legally travel to the UK without an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).

Carriers will not board eligible visitors without one. Wherever possible, the permission will be digitally linked to the passport being used. This must be shown through an ETA, eVisa, other acceptable physical proof or an exemption.

For further information please select the following links:

• No permission, no travel: UK set to enforce ETA scheme - GOV.UK
• Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) factsheet – November 2025 – Home Office in the media