UK ETA: New Travel Rules for US Citizens Accept Effect

As of February 25, 2026, travelers to the United Kingdom, including U.S. Citizens, are required to have an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before arrival. This new requirement applies to short visits for tourism, business, or transit, and failure to obtain an ETA could result in being denied boarding.

What is the UK ETA?

The ETA is a digital travel authorization similar to the U.S. ESTA system. It’s designed to streamline border control and enhance security by pre-screening travelers. The UK’s move towards an ETA system is part of a broader effort to create a fully digital border system GOV.UK.

Who Needs an ETA?

U.S. Citizens traveling to the UK for visits of up to 6 months for tourism, visiting family, or certain business purposes now require an ETA if they do not already have a UK visa or legal residency in the UK or the Republic of Ireland U.S. Embassy UK. This includes those simply transiting through UK airports.

Travelers who already have a UK visa, an exempt vignette, or hold a British or Irish passport are exempt from the ETA requirement GOV.UK. Other nationalities that typically require a visa to visit the UK will continue to do so and should not apply for an ETA.

How to Apply for an ETA

The application process is online and can be found at GOV.UK. The ETA costs £16 (approximately $12.75 as of January 2026) U.S. Embassy UK.

Important Deadlines and Processing Times

While the new rules officially took effect on February 25, 2026, travelers were advised to apply by February 20, 2026, to allow for processing time Forbes. The UK government advises allowing up to three working days for the ETA to be processed U.S. Embassy UK.

Transit Passengers

An ETA is required for all connecting passengers who need to clear UK border control before boarding their onward flight. However, an ETA is not required for airside transit through a UK airport if travelers do not pass through border control Forbes. Travelers may need to clear border control if they leave the airport building, collect and recheck baggage, or have an onward flight departing the next calendar day with no option to remain overnight within the airport.

Key Takeaways

• U.S. Citizens now require an ETA to travel to the UK for short visits.
• The ETA costs £16 and is valid for two years or until the passport expires, whichever is shorter.
• Allow at least three working days for processing.
• Transit passengers may require an ETA depending on their connection details.