New Rules for Travel to the United Kingdom: Electronic Travel Authorisation Required for Citizens of 85 Countries from February 2026

The UK government has introduced new regulations for travellers from 85 countries that previously enjoyed visa-free access, requiring them to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before travelling to the country starting 25 February 2026.

This new rule represents a significant change in international travel requirements to the United Kingdom. The policy is described as part of efforts to create a safer and more efficient digital immigration system.

Without an ETA application submitted and approved in advance, tourists from visa-free countries will be denied boarding on flights or other transport modes to the UK. The ETA is a digital travel permit that is neither a visa nor a tax, but must be obtained before departure for the UK.

According to reports, the ETA allows visitors to remain in the UK for up to six months for the purposes of tourism, family visits, or short-term business activities. The regulation applies to travellers from countries including the United States, Canada, Australia, Japan, South Korea, and numerous others that previously required no visa for entry to the UK.

Without an ETA, tourists will not be permitted to pass through immigration checks or be allowed to board flights by airlines. The UK government has stated that the policy aims to strengthen border security whilst modernising the immigration system through a digital approach.

With this system, UK authorities can conduct checks on traveller data before they arrive in the country. The government also believes this step will make the arrival process more efficient, as verification is carried out in advance.

The ETA was previously introduced on a phased basis beginning in 2023, but has now been strictly enforced by UK authorities and airlines.