The United Kingdom (UK) Home Office has announced a major step
toward a fully digitized immigration system: starting February 25,
2026, visitors from 85 countries—including the United States,
Canada, and France—must obtain an Electronic Travel
Authorization (ETA) before entering the United Kingdom. This policy
shift follows several years of phased implementation and signals
the UK's intent to modernize border security, streamline
processing, and better manage immigration data.
Key Points
Mandatory ETA Requirement for 85
Countries: Beginning February 25, 2026, travelers
from designated countries must secure ETA approval or an eVisa
before arriving in the UK. Airlines and other carriers will be
responsible for confirming that passengers hold valid travel
authorization prior to boarding.
