The UK is introducing major changes to its travel rules — and from February 25, 2026, thousands of travellers could be stopped from boarding flights if they don’t follow the new system.
Under the new rules, anyone travelling to the UK without proper digital permission will not be allowed to board their flight — unless they are officially exempt.
Here’s what you need to know.
What Is Changing From February 25, 2026?
The UK government is making Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) mandatory for visitors from visa-exempt countries.
An ETA is not a visa and not a tax.
It is simply digital permission to travel to the UK. Without it, you cannot board your transport.
Airlines and carriers will check this permission before allowing passengers to travel.
This rule will apply even to travellers taking connecting flights if they pass through UK passport control.
However, passengers transiting through airports like Heathrow or Manchester without going through passport control currently do not need an ETA.
Who Needs an ETA — And Who Is Exempt?
Visitors from 85 countries — including the United States, Canada, and France — must get an ETA before travelling.
The UK Home Office has clarified that British and Irish citizens are exempt from the ETA requirement.
However, there is an important change for dual citizens.
From February 25, 2026, British dual nationals will not be allowed to enter the UK using only a foreign passport.
To travel, they must carry:
A valid British passport, or
A Certificate of Entitlement (which costs £589)
Without these documents, airlines may deny boarding.
Although airlines may accept expired UK passports at their discretion, there is no legal guarantee.
Travellers risk being turned away at the airport.
Big Shift Toward Digital eVisas
The UK is also moving fully toward a digital visa system.
Instead of traditional visa stickers, most travellers will receive an eVisa linked to their UKVI account.
From later in 2026, physical visa stickers will be completely phased out.
All successful applicants will receive only an eVisa.
International students and skilled workers are already using this system.
Under the new process:
No visa vignette is issued
Applicants can submit biometrics
Passports can often be collected the same day
This change is designed to make the process faster and more digital.
How Much Does an ETA Cost?
An ETA currently costs £16.
It allows:
Multiple trips to the UK
Stays of up to six months at a time
Validity for two years or until the passport expires (whichever comes first)
Once approved, the ETA is digitally linked to your passport.
Why This Matters
From February 25, 2026, travel to the UK will require proper digital clearance for most visitors.
Failing to prepare could mean being denied boarding at the airport.
The UK government is urging travellers — especially dual British citizens — to check their documents early to avoid last-minute disruptions.
If you plan to travel to the UK in 2026, now is the time to understand these changes and make sure your passport and digital permissions are in order.
