From Visa-Free To Pre-Approval: UK Enforces New Electronic Travel System
By ANITA KNIGHT
UK Rolls Out Mandatory Electronic Travel Authorisation
THE United Kingdom has formally introduced its new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, marking a significant shift in how millions of visitors enter the country.
From 25 February, travellers from 85 previously visa-exempt countries — including the United States and Australia — must now obtain an ETA before boarding a flight, train or ship to the UK. The British government says the move will streamline border processes, enhance security and modernise immigration controls.
The system, first launched in October 2023, had not been strictly enforced to allow travellers time to adjust. However, officials confirmed in November that compliance would become mandatory from late February.
What Is an ETA and Who Needs One?
An ETA is a digital permission linked to a traveller’s passport. It allows multiple visits of up to six months over a two-year period — or until the passport expires.
The authorisation covers tourism, business trips, short-term study and certain transit journeys. However, travellers transiting through UK airports without passing border control are exempt.
Those intending to work, study long-term, or stay beyond six months must still apply for a visa. Likewise, nationals who already require visas to visit the UK will continue to do so and do not need an ETA.
British and Irish citizens remain exempt, along with a limited number of other categories, including individuals with settled status.
Application Process and Cost
Applying for an ETA costs £16, though the government has indicated the fee will rise to £20. Applicants are encouraged to use the official mobile app via Google Play or the Apple App Store.
Travellers must provide passport details, contact information, a suitable photograph and answer background questions. Most decisions are automated and returned within minutes, but authorities recommend applying at least three working days before travel.
If rejected, applicants may reapply. However, if formally refused, there is no right of appeal — the individual must instead seek a visa.
The ETA is digitally linked to the passport used during application, meaning travellers must use the same passport for entry.
How the Rules Will Be Enforced
Airlines and other transport operators now conduct automated checks with the Home Office before departure. Without a valid ETA, travellers may be denied boarding.
While the ETA grants permission to travel, it does not guarantee entry. Border officials retain authority to refuse entry after passport control checks.
Challenges for Dual Nationals
One group facing difficulties is dual nationals — individuals holding both British and another nationality.
Dual citizens cannot apply for an ETA. Instead, they must travel using a British passport or obtain a digital certificate of entitlement attached to their foreign passport.
Neither document is issued automatically upon citizenship. A British passport costs approximately £100, while a certificate of entitlement costs £589, and both can take weeks to process.
Some dual nationals abroad say they have struggled to secure documentation in time. The Home Office maintains that public guidance has been available since 2024 and that a communications campaign has been running since 2023.
A Global Trend
The UK joins countries such as Canada and the United States in adopting electronic pre-travel systems. While Canada charges the equivalent of under £4, the US system costs nearly £30 — highlighting wide global variations in fees.
For travellers heading to Britain, however, the message is clear: pre-authorisation is no longer optional.
