The UK has announced a major shift in its UK VISA and border security framework by making Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) mandatory for travellers from 85 visa-exempt countries starting February 25, 2026. The new digital screening system aims to strengthen immigration control, modernize border checks, and enhance national security.
TheInterviewTimes.com | November 24, 2025: The United Kingdom has announced a sweeping change in its UK VISA and border control policy, making Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) compulsory for visitors from 85 visa-exempt countries starting February 25, 2026. The landmark move, led by the UK Home Office, aims to digitize all entry procedures, expand pre-arrival security checks, and build a modern, contactless border experience.
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UK VISA Policy Shift Targets Stronger Digital Security
This new regulation applies to travellers from visa-exempt nations such as the United States, Canada, France, Japan, Australia, and several others. These travellers — who earlier enjoyed visa-free entry — must now secure a digital ETA before boarding any flight to the UK.
The ETA will cost £16, remain valid for multiple entries for two years, and can be obtained through an official mobile application. Most approvals will be issued within minutes, but applicants are advised to allow three working days for processing to avoid last-minute disruptions.
Officials say the measure is designed to streamline travel while tightening security assessments. Mike Tapp, UK Minister for Migration and Citizenship, stated:
“ETAs give us greater power to stop those who pose a threat from setting foot in the country and give us a fuller picture of immigration.”
UK VISA Modernization: 13.3 Million ETAs Already Processed
The ETA system was introduced in phases starting October 2023, with more than 13.3 million applications processed so far. During the rollout, the government allowed flexible enforcement to help the aviation sector and international travellers adjust to the new requirements.
From 2026 onward, airlines will be legally responsible for verifying that travellers hold a valid ETA or eVisa. Carriers failing to comply may face penalties of up to £50,000 for flying passengers without proper documentation.
This aligns the UK with global border trends, following similar systems like the US ESTA and Canada’s eTA, which emphasize pre-arrival screening to identify risks ahead of travel.
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UK VISA Exemptions: What Travellers Must Know
British and Irish citizens are entirely exempt from the ETA requirement. However, the Home Office issued a warning for dual British nationals who travel on foreign passports. These individuals must carry a valid British passport or certificate of entitlement to avoid boarding denial or immigration delays.
Travellers from India will see no change, as Indian nationals already require UK VISAs for short-term and long-term entry.
The ETA rule applies only to nationals who previously travelled without visas, making it one of the biggest overhauls in the UK’s border management since Brexit.
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A Key Step in the UK’s Digital Border Transformation
The introduction of mandatory ETAs marks a major milestone in the UK’s effort to build a fully digital and secure border. The government says the new system will create a faster, safer, and more predictable travel environment by integrating real-time data, automated risk profiling, and advanced vetting tools.
As the February 25, 2026 deadline approaches, travellers from the 85 impacted nations are advised to apply early and stay updated on requirements to avoid delays at airports.
UK VISA Digital ETA: Key Takeaways
- The UK will enforce mandatory ETA for travellers from 85 visa-exempt countries starting February 25, 2026.
- The ETA costs £16, stays valid for two years, and enables multiple entries.
- Over 13.3 million ETAs have already been processed since 2023.
- Airlines face £50,000 penalties for boarding travellers without valid authorization.
- British, Irish, and Indian nationals are not impacted by this new rule.