You booked your flight to London, but a simple mistake at the airport could ruin your trip. Starting February 25, 2026, the UK government will deny boarding to travelers from 85 countries who show up without the new travel permit.
I built this guide at UK ETA for Malaysian to help you check the full list of countries that need a UK ETA in 2026. I will show you exactly what to do so your permit gets approved fast.
Portal: https://application.uketa.com.my/
What the 2026 UK ETA Rules Mean for Your Next Trip
The Electronic Travel Authorisation is a digital entry pass. It acts as a strict digital border for visitors who do not need a standard visa.
When Does the Scheme Become Mandatory?
The scheme becomes a hard rule for all visa-free nationalities on February 25, 2026. The transition period is over. If you arrive at the check-in desk without an approved permit, the airline will reject you.
The Full List of Countries That Need a UK ETA
UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) requires this document if you hold a valid passport from these main regions:
- Europe: France, Germany, Spain, Italy, and 30 others.
- The Americas: USA, Canada, Brazil, Argentina.
- Asia & Pacific: Australia, Japan, Singapore, South Korea.
- Middle East: UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar.
Rules for EU and EEA Nationals
European citizens must get the permit. You cannot use a national ID card to travel to the UK anymore. You must use a biometric passport.
Transit Passengers and Short Layovers
You need an approved ETA just to pass through a UK airport. This strict rule applies even if you stay airside and never cross border control.
Who Exactly Does Not Need a UK ETA?
Some travelers bypass this new system. You do not need the digital pass if you hold a standard UK visa or have permission to live in the UK.
The Rules for Dual Citizens
You cannot use a foreign passport to avoid these rules. If you hold a British Passport, you must use it. Otherwise, you need a valid Certificate of Entitlement.
Irish Citizens and the Common Travel Area
Irish citizens are completely exempt. You can enter the UK freely under the Common Travel Area agreement.
What You Can and Cannot Do With a UK ETA
The permit covers a short stay for specific reasons. Breaking these rules will result in a ban from the UK.
| Permitted Activities (What you can do) | Banned Activities (What you cannot do) |
| Tourism and visiting family | Working a paid job |
| Attending business meetings | Living in the UK long-term |
| Short-term study (under 6 months) | Claiming state benefits |
| Medical treatment | Getting married |
How Long Does the Permit Last?
The document stays active for two years. You can take multiple trips to the UK during this time. Each single visit is capped at six months.
Step by Step: How to Apply for the UK ETA
Applying takes about ten minutes. You go to the official Portal.
UK ETA Application Fees and Timelines
The fee is £27 per person. You must pay this online using a card or digital wallet. You usually get an approval email within three working days.
FAQ
When does the UK ETA become mandatory for all visa-free countries?
The UK ETA becomes mandatory for all 85 eligible visa-free nationalities on February 25, 2026. Airlines will deny boarding if you lack an approved permit.
After this date, the old system ends completely. You must link the digital permit to your passport before you arrive at the airport.
How much does the UK ETA cost in 2026?
The UK ETA costs exactly £27 for each applicant, including babies and children. You pay this non-refundable fee online during the application process.
You can use a debit card, credit card, or digital wallet to complete the payment. The fee covers multiple entries over a two-year period.
How long is the UK ETA valid for?
An approved UK ETA remains valid for two full years from the issue date, or until your current passport expires.
During this time, you can take multiple trips to the UK. Each individual stay is capped at a maximum of six months.
Do European citizens need an ETA for the UK?
Yes, European citizens now require an ETA to enter the UK. This affects all EU, EEA, and Swiss nationals taking short trips.
You can no longer travel using just your national ID card. The only European exception is for Irish citizens under the Common Travel Area agreement.
Do you need a UK ETA just for transit?
Yes, you must hold an approved ETA to transit through a UK airport. This applies even if you do not pass through border control.
Airlines will check your digital status before you board your first flight. If you plan a layover in London, you need the permit.
Full List of Countries That Need a UK ETA in 2026: The Simple Truth
The Real Numbers
- 85 Nationalities: The UK government now requires this digital pass for 85 specific visa-free countries.
- £27 Fee: Every single applicant must pay this flat cost starting in April 2026.
A Wise Word
“Everyone wishing to travel to the UK – except British and Irish citizens – will need permission to travel in advance of coming here.” — Seema Malhotra, UK Minister for Migration
This means that instead of worrying about the hard parts, I focus on the simple truth: you cannot wait until you get to the airport to ask for entry into the UK.
Key Information at a Glance
| Feature | Why it Matters | How it Helps You |
| Digital Pass | It replaces paper forms | Saves time at check-in |
| Flat £27 Fee | One single fixed price | Fits your travel budget |
| Website Portal | Works on your phone/Tab/Laptop | Lets you apply anywhere |
A Surprising Fact
Did you know that transit passengers need this permit just to change planes? Most people think the opposite is true, but experts have found that this little secret is actually the key to success.
