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ETA enforcement begins for non-visa nationals

Carriers now check that affected non-visa nationals have an ETA, eVisa or other valid digital permission before travel.

Resource type
Rules change
Last reviewed
26 July 2026
Official sources
1
Platform role
Information only
Published
25 February 2026
Effective
25 February 2026
Status
In force
General information, not a personal recommendation

This summary is not transitional-rule advice. The application date, decision date and exact commencement wording may matter.

What changed

Practical summary

  • Digital permission is checked before boarding
  • British and Irish citizens remain exempt from ETA
  • An ETA permits travel but does not guarantee entry

What to do next

Verification checks

  • Check whether the traveller needs an ETA or visa
  • Apply only through the official service
  • Travel with the linked passport

Original authority

Read the official source

Official sourceOpen the Home Office source

More changes

Continue through the tracker

July 2026 Statement of Changes: practical overviewRead change →Graduate route provision for a child born in the UKRead change →ETA criminality provisions updatedRead change →
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