Travel to the UK Is Changing: ETA Required Fees Will Increase on February 25

Travel to the UK Is Changing: ETA Required Fees Will Increase on February 25

Beginning on February 25, 2026, all short-term visa-exempt visitors must have a valid UK ETA. Fees increase from £16 to £20 when the grace period expires. Use the app to get it quickly; most approvals happen in a matter of minutes. covers several entries for a period of two years.
The Electronic Travel Authorization, or ETA, is something you can no longer overlook if you're organizing a quick trip to the UK. The ETA will be required for all visa-free travelers visiting the UK for durations of up to six months starting on February 25, 2026. There won't be any more grace periods or exclusions.

Travelers, particularly those from Europe, enjoyed some leeway up until this point. That window is rapidly closing.
No Boarding, No ETA
Travelers from 84 visa-exempt nations and territories must have an authorized ETA before departing for the UK after the deadline.

Before passengers board, airlines will check for it. You will not be permitted to board the aircraft if you do not have one. You won't be permitted to enter the nation, even if you manage to get there.
This holds true whether you're traveling to Belfast, Cardiff, Edinburgh, or London.

There Will Be Another ETA Fee Increase
The price of the ETA has already increased since its initial release. The cost increased from £10 to £16 in April 2025. The UK government has now stated that there will be another hike.

The UK ETA will now cost £20, or about US$27.

Officials have stated unequivocally that the hike will occur, but there is currently no set timetable. As part of a larger reform to immigration fees, the Treasury and Parliament have already authorized the adjustment.
Applying early could save you money if you know you'll be visiting the UK in the future.

Jersey, Guernsey, and the Isle of Man will also be covered by ETA.
It is important to note that the increased cost will not be limited to the UK mainland. Jersey, Guernsey, and the Isle of Man will all have access to the same ETA system. Travelers should anticipate the same regulations and expenses when these regions gradually join the program.

What the United Kingdom ETA Enables You to
The ETA is a travel authorization for multiple entries. It is valid for two years, or until your passport expires, whichever comes first, and permits you to travel to the UK for up to six months at a time.
As long as your passport is valid, you are not need to reapply for each trip during that time.
How to Request an ETA in the UK
It's entirely digital.

The UK ETA mobile app is used by most applicants. You can apply via the official GOV.UK website if you don't have a smartphone.

The government claims that many applications are accepted in a matter of minutes. However, in case additional inspections are required, travelers are urged to apply at least three working days prior to departure.

Why the ETA Was Introduced in the UK
Travelers can be screened by UK border authorities before to arrival thanks to the ETA.
In addition to answering background questions, applicants supply basic biographical information and passport details. This aids officials in determining eligibility and early detection of security issues.

Australia, Canada, and the United States already have comparable systems. Additionally, the European Union is getting ready to introduce its own version.

Rules for Transit You Should Understand
You require an ETA if you go through UK passport check when traveling.

However, passport control is not required for travelers passing through airports like Heathrow or Manchester.
It's important to examine the rules before you fly because they can differ depending on the airport and the route.

Who Is Not Required to Follow the ETA?
Citizens of the United Kingdom and Ireland do not require an ETA.

The Common Travel Area regulations also exempt certain legal citizens of Ireland.
Use your British passport when traveling if you have two British nationalities. By doing this, delays or additional border inspections are prevented.
Almost 20 million ETAs have already been issued.
The system is not brand-new and is already extensively utilized.

The UK government issued over 19.6 million ETAs between October 2023 and September 2025.
When the requirement is completely implemented in 2026, that number is only anticipated to increase.

Concluding Remarks
The ETA is required if you are eligible for a visa-free entrance and want to travel to the UK after February 25, 2026. Before you plan your flight, make sure you double-check the rules, apply early, and budget for a larger charge. Although it's a little step, omitting it could prevent your journey from ever beginning.