From 25 February 2026, travellers from the United States and Canada will no longer be able to fly to the United Kingdom without advance digital permission. The UK government will fully enforce its new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme for citizens of 85 visa-exempt countries, including both the US and Canada.
The ETA is part of a wider plan to build a more secure, fully digital border. The UK Home Office has described the policy with a simple phrase: “No permission, no travel.” Airlines and other carriers will have to check that passengers have an approved ETA or eVisa before allowing them to board flights to the UK.
What Is an ETA and Who Needs It?
An ETA is a digital travel permit, not a full visa. It is designed for short-term visits such as tourism, family visits, business trips, short courses, or transits through a UK airport. Most visitors will be allowed to stay for up to six months under this authorisation.
According to official guidance from the UK government, the ETA will be mandatory for all eligible non-visa nationals from February 2026, and carriers will be legally required to check ETA status before travel. See the full announcement on the UK government website .
What This Means for US and Canadian Travellers
For Americans and Canadians who have long enjoyed visa-free access to the UK, this is a major change. From 25 February 2026, having a valid passport and a flight ticket will not be enough. Without an approved ETA linked to your passport, you risk being denied boarding at the airport.
Canadian media have already highlighted the impact of these new rules on travellers. For example, Global News notes that Canadians planning trips to London or elsewhere in the UK will need to build the ETA application into their pre-travel checklist.
How to Apply for a UK ETA
Applying for an ETA will be done online or through the official UK ETA app. Travellers will need:
- A valid biometric passport (US or Canadian)
- Basic personal and contact details
- Travel information (such as where you plan to stay)
- A recent digital photograph
The fee is currently set at £16. Most decisions are expected to be made within minutes, but the UK government recommends applying at least three working days before your trip in case additional checks are required. Once approved, an ETA is usually valid for multiple trips over two years (or until your passport expires).
For a wider context on how US politics and travel news shape visitor interest in the UK, you can also read our coverage of the Donald Trump Thanksgiving message 2025 .
As 2026 approaches, the key message for US and Canadian visitors is clear: check your passport, apply for your ETA early, and treat it as a standard part of booking a trip to the UK.
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