Travellers from France, Monaco and across the European Union will soon need official permission to enter the United Kingdom, as part of new border control measures set to take effect from 25 February 2026.
The UK’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme, launched in phases since 2023, will become mandatory for visitors from 85 visa-exempt countries. This includes EU member states such as France, as well as Monaco, the United States, Canada, Australia and Japan.
The ETA is a digital travel permit — not a visa — allowing short stays of up to six months for tourism, business or family visits. However, passengers without one will be denied boarding by airlines, train services or ferry operators.
What is the ETA?
The ETA is part of the UK’s strategy to digitise and modernise its border processes post-Brexit. It applies to non-visa nationals who previously needed no prior clearance to enter the country.
Applications cost €18.20 and can be completed via the UK ETA app or official government website. Travellers will need to provide contact information, a passport and a recent photograph.
While most applications are approved within minutes, the UK government recommends applying at least three working days before travel to allow for additional checks if necessary. Once granted, the ETA is valid for two years or until the passport expires.
Exemptions and transits
British and Irish nationals, including dual citizens, are exempt from the ETA requirement. However, dual nationals travelling with non-UK documents are advised to ensure they carry appropriate proof of British citizenship.
Passengers transiting through Heathrow or Manchester without passing through UK border control will also not require an ETA.
Increased border checks
The UK’s Home Office says the measure is intended to strengthen national security and improve migration management. Officials also argue it will help streamline passenger flows at ports of entry by moving checks further upstream.
“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,” said Mike Tapp, the UK’s Minister for Migration and Citizenship.
The UK is the latest country to introduce such a system, following similar models already in use by the United States (ESTA) and Canada (eTA). The European Union is preparing to launch its own equivalent — the ETIAS — for visitors entering the Schengen area, which will also apply to UK nationals.
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