What is the UK ETA and who needs it?

The UK ETA is a digital pre‑travel check. From 25 February 2026, carriers must confirm it or an accepted proof of right to enter before boarding. Tourists who fall under the scheme pay a fee during application. British citizens use a UK passport or a certificate of entitlement instead of an ETA.

What should dual nationals UK carry to avoid denied boarding?

Travel with a valid UK passport or a certificate of entitlement in a foreign passport. Ensure your booking and document names match. Keep digital and printed confirmations. Arrive earlier for document checks, and contact your carrier in advance if your status is complex or a renewal is in progress.

How could UK ETA checks disrupt travel in the short term?

Expect longer check‑in lines, more manual reviews, and occasional no‑board decisions when data does not match. Rebookings and customer‑service escalations may rise, causing tight turnarounds at gates. As systems and staff adapt, these issues should reduce, particularly if passengers bring correct documents and confirmations.

How much does the ETA visa UK cost now?

The fee is £16 at present, with a planned increase to £20. The cost applies to travellers who must obtain UK travel authorisation, not to British citizens using a UK passport or a certificate of entitlement. Carriers should flag fees and timelines in pre‑trip messages to minimise airport friction.

Law and Government

UK ETA Rules, February 25: Carrier Checks, Airline Disruption Risk

ByDanny Kontos February 25, 2026February 25, 2026

The UK ETA now applies in full from 25 February 2026. Carriers must confirm permission to travel before boarding, and British dual nationals must show a UK passport or a certificate of entitlement. We expect short-term check-in friction, denied-boarding disputes, and higher service costs as systems settle. The £16 fee for the ETA visa UK, with a planned rise to £20, sets a new baseline for UK travel authorisation compliance. Investors should watch operational metrics and customer‑sentiment trends closely.