85 nationalities require digital travel permit to enter UK from February 2026

Visiting the United Kingdom is about to get more complicated from 25 February 2026 for citizens of 85 countries, including those who do not currently require a visa, such as Canadian, French, and United States tourists.

The UK government is ready to start imposing stricter checks on the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) it began phasing in from October 2023, initially for nationals of Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan, and gradually to other citizens. Since that introduction, over 13.3 million visitors have successfully applied for ETAs, which authorities say promotes “faster, smoother travel.”

The digital permit is “now a fundamental part of travel,” a government press release said. From 25 February 2026, it will be enforced, including for transit visitors taking connecting flights passing through UK passport control. All visitors who do not currently need a visa require an ETA for stays of up to six months, whether the visit is for family or for tourism purposes.

From 25 February 2026 eligible visitors to the UK can’t legally travel without an Electronic Travel Authorisation. Find out more at https://t.co/EjuG34rTYC pic.twitter.com/8HAaXAtYKi

— UK Visas & Immigration Official (@UKVIgovuk) November 24, 2025

Described as a “significant step” towards the digitisation of the UK immigration system, an ETA can be applied for through the official UK ETA app. The process is said to be “quick and simple” and the cost “competitive” at £16 (around €18). Citizens from eligible countries need to provide details of a valid biometric passport, their travel plans, an email address, and the ability to pay with a credit or debit card. A set of suitability questions will also be asked.

Depending on the validity of all the above, the majority of applicants get “a decision automatically in minutes,” the Ministry for Migration and Citizenship said. However, they recommend allowing three working days in case additional reviews of the authorisation are needed before issuing.

British and Irish citizens, including dual citizens, are exempt from needing an ETA. However, the UK government “strongly advises” dual British citizens to make sure they have a valid British passport or certificate of entitlement, to avoid problems like being denied boarding when travelling to the UK from 25 February 2026.

Mike Tapp, Minister for Migration and Citizenship, said on the UK government website that ETAs have been designed to give UK authorities “greater power to stop those who pose a threat from setting foot in the country” and provide “a fuller picture of immigration,” as well as contributing to a “more seamless travel experience.”

But the scheme has not proven popular with all stakeholders since its launch. Heathrow officials have said the advent of ETAs caused a colossal 90,000 drop in transfer passenger figures and has damaged the airport’s competitiveness. In addition, travel industry representatives, such as Northern Ireland’s Tourism Alliance, have expressed fears that the rollout could deter up to 25% of holidaymakers.