From today, the Home Office has enforced the requirement for holding an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for all non‑visa nationals travelling to the UK. This development marks the end of the ‘grace period’ and represents the UK Government’s transition towards a fully digital border. 

Although the ETA scheme has been in place since October 2023, it has operated without strict enforcement. This position has now changed. From today, individuals who require an ETA but do not hold one will not be able to travel to the UK, which will have immediate implications for individuals, businesses and carriers.

What Is the Electronic Travel Authorisation?

The ETA is a form of pre-digital authorisation to travel to the UK. Our previous blog provides greater detail on the ETA Scheme and the process for applying for one. 

From today, holding valid pre-digital authorisation is a legal requirement to enter the UK. Carriers are obliged to refuse boarding where a traveller does not have an ETA, an eVisa, or other valid UK immigration status to enter the UK. 

Who Is Required to Hold an ETA?

The ETA requirement applies to nationals of 85 countries who have previously been able to travel to the UK for short visits without obtaining a visa and would simply present their passport to gain entry. This includes nationals of the United States, Canada, France and many other European and non‑European countries. 

An ETA is required for individuals travelling to the UK for:

• Tourism.
• Business visits.
• Short‑term study.
• Visits of up to six months.
• Transit through the UK where the individual passes through border control.

Once granted, an ETA:

• Is valid for two years or until the passport used to apply expires (whichever is sooner).
• Permits multiple journeys to the UK during its validity period.

The ETA scheme does not replace the Visitor visa. Individuals of nationalities which require a Visitor visa to visit the UK will continue to require this.

Exemptions and Points of Caution

British and Irish citizens are exempt from requiring an ETA to enter the UK, including those who hold dual nationality. However, the Home Office has announced that dual British citizens must travel using their valid British passport or their Certificate of Entitlement. Dual British nationals should not travel on their non‑British passport as this may result in boarding being refused. 

Individuals who hold existing UK immigration status, including those who can evidence their status on their eVisa are also exempt from needing an ETA.

Practical Impact: “No Permission, No Travel”

The most significant change introduced today is that an ETA is now a mandatory requirement to enter the UK.  Airlines and other carriers are required to verify that passengers hold valid digital permission before travel. Therefore, travellers who arrive at the airport without the correct authorisation may be prevented from boarding, regardless of their purpose of visit or travel history. 

This places greater responsibility on visitors and organisations to ensure that the correct permissions are in place well in advance of travel.

Implications for UK Businesses

For UK‑based employers and organisations which regularly welcome overseas visitors, the enforcement of the ETA scheme is increasingly relevant. Business visitors who fail to obtain an ETA in advance may be unable to enter the UK and therefore fail to attend meetings, conferences or short‑term assignments in the UK.

Employers should take proactive steps to:

• Review travel guidance issued to overseas colleagues and clients.
• Ensure that short‑term visitors are aware of the ETA requirement.
• Build ETA checks into internal travel approval processes.

Our View

The enforcement of the ETA requirement represents an ongoing change in how individuals can enter the UK. While the system is intended to streamline travel and improve border security, the consequences of non‑compliance and failing to follow the updated processes can be disruptive to both businesses and individuals.

As the UK has transitioned to a fully digital immigration framework, advance planning and careful compliance will be essential for anyone travelling to the UK, whether for business or leisure.

We regularly advise individuals and employers on obtaining authorisation for travel to the UK. If you would like to discuss your suitability for an ETA, or your options if you have been refused an ETA, please do not hesitate to contact our Head of Immigration, Sundeep Rathod.