Who needs a UK ETA in 2026, how much does it cost, and how do you apply?
- As of 25 February 2026, the ETA is a universal “No Permission, No Travel” requirement for all non-visa nationalities (including EU, US, Australia, Canada, and 85 others).
- British and Irish citizens do not need an ETA.
- Dual British citizens must travel on their British (or Irish) passport — they cannot use an ETA on a non-British passport.
- The fee is £20 and the authorisation is valid for 2 years.
The UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is now fully enforced. Since 25 February 2026, it has become a mandatory pre-travel requirement for nearly all visitors who do not need a visa. Here is the clear, up-to-date operational guidance for 2026.
Full Enforcement Date
From 25 February 2026, the ETA became a universal requirement. Airlines and ferry operators now perform Carrier Compliance checks. If you need an ETA and do not have one, you will be refused boarding — “No Permission, No Travel”.
This applies to citizens of the EU, US, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and approximately 85 other non-visa nationalities who previously enjoyed visa-free access to the UK.
The Dual National “No ETA” Rule
British and Irish citizens do not need an ETA under any circumstances.
This creates an important trap for dual nationals. If you hold British citizenship (even alongside US, EU, or any other nationality), you cannot apply for or use a UK ETA. You must travel using your British passport (or Irish passport if you hold one).
Attempting to use an ETA linked to a non-British passport will trigger the airline’s compliance system and result in denied boarding. Always travel on your British passport when entering the UK if you hold dual nationality.
The 2026 Fee and Validity
The current fee for a UK ETA is £20 (increased from the original £10/£16 in February 2026).
Once approved, the ETA is:
- Valid for 2 years or until the linked passport expires — whichever comes first.
- Digitally linked to your passport — there is no paper certificate to print or carry.
- Usable for multiple visits during its validity period.
Applications are made entirely online via the official GOV.UK ETA app or website and are usually approved within minutes, although some cases require manual review.
Who Needs an ETA vs Who Does Not
Your 2026 UK ETA Action Checklist
Before booking travel to the UK
- Confirm whether you (or any travelling companions) require an ETA.
- Dual British nationals: book and travel using your British passport.
At least 72 hours before travel (ideally earlier)
- Apply for the ETA via the official GOV.UK service (£20).
- Save the confirmation email/reference — you do not need to print anything.
At the airport or port
- Ensure the passport you are travelling on matches the one linked to your ETA (if applicable).
- Be prepared to show your passport and any digital confirmation if requested.
The UK ETA system is now a permanent part of entry requirements. For most non-visa visitors it is a simple £20 online process. For British and dual British citizens the rule is clear: use your British passport and no ETA is required. Apply early, travel on the correct document, and avoid last-minute boarding refusals.
Editorial & Accuracy Standards
- Expert Review:
Ammara Azmat,
Senior Travel Mobility Analyst (12+ years experience) - Status: Verified for accuracy against official 2026 service data and real-time traveller reports.
- Our Process: This content follows our Fact-Checking Policy.
