Published on
January 29, 2026
Travelling to the United Kingdom will become slightly more expensive starting February 25, 2026, when the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) becomes fully mandatory for visa-exempt visitors. Currently, the ETA costs £16, but the UK government has announced plans to increase the fee to £20. This change will affect travelers from 84 countries and territories that currently do not require a visa to visit the UK for short stays of up to six months.
The introduction of the ETA is part of the UK’s efforts to strengthen border security by collecting biometric and biographic data about travellers before they arrive. For tourists planning to visit iconic UK destinations like London, Edinburgh, Cardiff, and Belfast, this system will streamline entry while ensuring security. However, the upcoming fee increase is an important consideration for anyone planning to travel to the UK in the coming months.
The UK ETA: What It Means for Travellers
The ETA system was launched in October 2023 as part of the UK government’s broader security and immigration initiatives. From February 2026, it will be required for all visa-exempt travelers—those who do not need a visa for short-term visits—to obtain an ETA before boarding a flight to the UK. While the system is still in a grace period for some countries, it will become a strict requirement for all eligible travellers starting February 25, 2026.
Tourists visiting the UK for holidays, business, or family visits, as well as those transiting through UK airports, will need to apply for the ETA. It is a digital process that can be completed quickly through the UK ETA app or the GOV.UK website. Most applications are processed automatically within minutes, though travelers are advised to apply at least three business days in advance to ensure they meet all requirements.
The new £20 fee represents an increase from the initial £16 charged since the introduction of the ETA for some countries in April 2025. While the ETA fee for travelers from certain regions was already raised in April 2025, this additional fee adjustment aligns with a broader review of immigration fees, which also impacts other administrative procedures such as visa applications and residence permits. The increase reflects the UK government’s ongoing efforts to improve its travel and immigration systems while managing increasing demand for security measures.
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Why This Change Matters for Tourism
For travellers heading to London, Edinburgh, Cardiff, or Belfast, the ETA provides a smoother and faster entry process, ensuring that tourists can spend more time enjoying the sights and less time navigating immigration queues. The additional £4 fee is an important consideration for budget-conscious travelers who are planning a trip to one of the UK’s most popular tourist destinations.
In terms of tourism, the UK remains a global travel hub, attracting millions of visitors annually to explore historic landmarks like the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, and the British Museum in London, or the iconic Edinburgh Castle and the picturesque Scottish Highlands. With the ETA system now being fully implemented, travelers from countries including the United States, Canada, and most European Union nations can expect a smoother arrival process while helping the UK enhance security measures for incoming visitors.
For the UK tourism sector, ensuring a smooth entry process is vital for maintaining its status as one of the world’s top tourist destinations. The ETA system, alongside improved entry protocols, supports this effort by offering quicker screenings and reducing congestion at immigration checkpoints, particularly during busy travel seasons.
Additional Routes: Jersey, Guernsey, and the Isle of Man are included in the ETA Expansion
The expansion of the ETA system is not limited to the UK’s main islands. Starting soon, Jersey, Guernsey, and the Isle of Man, territories that are part of the British Crown but not the United Kingdom itself, will also require an ETA. This expansion brings these territories under the same umbrella of entry requirements as the UK mainland, ensuring a seamless travel experience for tourists traveling across the British Isles.
Travelers planning trips to these territories will also need to consider the £20 fee, which will apply in addition to the regular visa or entry requirements for these regions. The new travel rules aim to standardize the entry process for the entire UK and its territories, making travel easier for tourists and helping the regions maintain consistent security standards.
What You Need to Know About ETA for Transit Passengers
Transit passengers passing through the UK will also be required to have an ETA if they pass through passport control. This includes connecting flights where passengers might need to leave the secure area or transit to a different terminal. However, travelers passing through major international airports like Heathrow or Manchester without entering the UK through passport control will not need an ETA.
Travellers are encouraged to verify their transit status when booking flights to ensure they comply with all necessary requirements. The new ETA system is expected to simplify entry procedures and enhance security while maintaining the UK’s reputation as a global gateway for travellers worldwide.
What This Means for Future Travellers
For anyone planning to visit the UK in 2026 and beyond, it’s important to stay informed about the upcoming ETA requirements and the £20 fee. While the process is designed to be quick and convenient, it’s always advisable to apply well in advance to avoid last-minute complications. As global tourism recovers, the UK remains a key destination for travellers, offering rich cultural experiences, world-renowned landmarks, and a vibrant atmosphere.
For those looking to plan a trip to London, Edinburgh, Cardiff, or the Isle of Man, make sure to account for the ETA fee and complete your application before your travel date to ensure a smooth and efficient journey to one of the world’s top travel destinations.
