From today, foreign visitors from 85 countries are required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to enter the UK.
The ETA must be secured in advance of travel.
According to the UK government, airlines will prevent passengers from boarding if they do not hold an ETA, eVisa or other valid documentation.
An ETA costs 16 pounds (US$21.70), permits multiple entries and is valid for two years.
It is also mandatory for visitors transiting through the UK who pass through passport control.
“The ETA scheme is a vital part of our work to strengthen the UK’s border security, helping to deliver a more efficient and modern service that works for both visitors and the British public,” said Mike Tapp, minister for migration and citizenship.
Countries eligible to apply for an ETA are those that do not require a visa for short visits. These include Singapore, Malaysia, Japan, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand. Passport holders from Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan may also apply.
The scheme was first introduced in October 2023 and extended to European visitors in April 2025. It forms part of broader efforts to digitise the UK’s immigration system and move towards a more contactless border.
Applicants can apply via the UK ETA app. Approval is typically granted within minutes, although travellers are advised to allow up to three working days before departure.
