A new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system has been launched by the United Kingdom. This new system will affect visitors from 85 nations, including the United States, Canada, and France. The ETA system will come into effect from February 25, 2026.
What is the Electronic Travel Authorisation system?
Travelers, including citizens from visa-exempt nations and individuals holding dual British citizenship, will be disallowed from boarding public transportation in the UK without an ETA. Only those exempt will be able to avail public transportation without an ETA.
The new system says that an ETA is a digitally acquired permission to travel. It is not a visa or tax. It only allows travelers to board public transport in the UK. It does not ensure entry into the UK, as travelers must go through border control, as per Moneycontrol.
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Who will need an ETA?
Most visitors from the 85 visa-free countries will be required to have an ETA. Travelers boarding connecting flights and going through UK passport control will need an ETA. But travelers transiting through Heathrow or Manchester without going through passport control will not need one.
Who is exempt?
British and Irish citizens are exempt from requiring an ETA. This includes dual citizens. However, dual British citizens will be required to present a valid British passport or a Certificate of Entitlement. This Certificate will cost £589. Dual citizens will not be allowed entry into the UK using only a foreign passport, Moneycontrol reported.
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Cost and validity of ETA
An Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) costs £16. One application will allow multiple journeys to the UK. It will allow stays of up to six months over two years, or until the passport expires, whichever is earlier.
The Authorisation will be digitally linked to the passport, and the need for a paper copy will be eliminated. Travelers are, however, advised to keep a paper copy for records, Moneycontrol reported.
