Starting from February 25, 2026, the United Kingdom is transitioning to a new border control model. Entry into the country will no longer be possible without prior authorization. This change is linked to the full implementation of the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, a digital entry clearance for travelers from visa-exempt countries.

📌 Formally, this is not a visa but a pre-travel screening process. However, in practice, the system changes the fundamental principle of entry. The decision on whether a traveler is allowed to enter the UK is made before boarding a flight rather than at the border.

The UK government explicitly describes this approach as “no permission, no travel,” meaning that without prior approval, the journey to the country is not possible.

💻 ETA is a digital travel authorization required for short stays of up to six months, including tourism, business visits, and short-term study. It is linked to the traveler’s passport and must be obtained online before departure.

📊 From February 25, 2026, the system will be fully enforced:

— citizens of approximately 85 visa-exempt countries, including the EU, the United States, and Canada, must obtain an ETA before traveling;
— without an ETA, boarding a plane or other transport to the UK will not be permitted, as carriers are required to verify authorization;
— the absence of an ETA results in automatic denial of boarding rather than refusal at the border;
— authorization is also required for transit if the traveler passes through UK border control.

Before the introduction of the ETA, most citizens of developed countries could enter the UK without prior procedures, with checks carried out at the border. Under the new system, the decision is made before travel, and responsibility for verification is shifted to airlines and transport operators.

Legally, this represents a transition to a system that enables the pre-screening of foreign nationals before they enter the country.

🪪 At the same time, new rules are being introduced for dual nationals. British citizens holding dual nationality must enter the UK using a British passport. The use of a foreign passport without proof of status is no longer permitted. As an alternative, individuals can apply for a Certificate of Entitlement, which costs approximately £589.

If these requirements are not met, carriers have the right to deny boarding for transport to the United Kingdom.