No ETA, no visit: UK carrier enforcement begins today

As of 25 February 2026, the UK’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme is being strictly enforced and if you’re flying, sailing or taking the train to visit the UK without one, you won’t be boarding!

Carriers such as airlines, maritime operators and rail services are now required to verify that every eligible visitor holds a valid ETA before they travel. Therefore, if you don’t have digital permission to visit the UK, you won’t be allowed to make the journey.

Who needs an ETA?

Nationals from 85 countries who don’t require a visa for short stays, including visitors from the US, Canada, Australia and EU member states must hold a valid ETA. This also applies to those transiting through the UK if they pass through passport control.

Residence permit holders and British and Irish citizens are exempt, but dual British citizens should ensure they are travelling on a valid British passport or hold a Certificate of Entitlement, as carriers will be running automated checks against Home Office records.

What is an ETA?

An ETA is a digital travel permission, not a visa. It costs £16, covers multiple trips over two years (or until your passport expires, whichever comes first), and permits stays of up to six months at a time. Most applicants receive an automatic decision within minutes through the official UK ETA app, though it’s recommended to apply at least three working days before travel.

Why the change?

The UK has been phasing in the ETA scheme since October 2023, during which time enforcement was deliberately relaxed to give travellers time to adapt. That grace period is now over. The UK Government’s position is clear: no permission, no travel.

What should you do?

If you are responsible for passengers travelling to the UK or if you’re travelling yourself, now is the time to verify ETA status at https://www.gov.uk/check-eta and apply via the official UK ETA app. Don’t rely on third-party websites, which may charge inflated fees.

How Gherson can assist

Gherson’s Immigration Team are highly experienced in advising on all UK visa matters. If you have any questions arising from this blog, please do not hesitate to contact us for advice, send us an e-mail, or, alternatively, follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn to stay-up-to-date.

The information in this blog is for general information purposes only and does not purport to be comprehensive or to provide legal advice. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information and law is current as of the date of publication it should be stressed that, due to the passage of time, this does not necessarily reflect the present legal position. Gherson accepts no responsibility for loss which may arise from accessing or reliance on information contained in this blog. For formal advice on the current law please do not hesitate to contact Gherson. Legal advice is only provided pursuant to a written agreement, identified as such, and signed by the client and by or on behalf of Gherson.

©Gherson 2026