Starting February 25, 2026, the UK has a strict new rule for visitors. If you come from one of 85 countries that didn’t need a visa before (like the USA, Canada, Australia, or countries in Europe), you now need a digital travel pass. This pass is called an Electronic Travel Authorisation, or ETA for short.
You must get this pass before you step onto an airplane, boat, or train heading to the UK. If you don’t have it, the airlines are legally forced to stop you from boarding.
Who Needs It: People from 85 different countries. There are no exceptions—even babies, children, and people just passing through the airport to another country must have one!
Cost and Time: The UK ETA costs £26. It links right to your passport and lasts for two whole years.
Dual Citizens: If you are a citizen of the UK or Ireland, you don’t need an ETA. But, you must show your British or Irish passport. You cannot use a passport from another country to get an ETA.
Here is the newest, most helpful information you should know before your trip:
Super Easy & Fast: You can apply for the ETA online, and it only takes a few minutes. Most people get approved in just 3 working days!
Visit A Lot: Since the ETA lasts for 2 years, you can travel to the UK many times. Even better, each visit can last up to 6 months!
Great for Creative Jobs: If you work in a creative job (like artists or musicians), you can now stay in the UK for up to 3 months without needing a big, complicated work visa.
The UK is doing this to keep everyone safe. The ETA helps them check who is coming into the country before travelers even arrive. It also helps the lines move much faster at the border when you land!
Applying is very simple. Just follow these steps on the official UK ETA Portal:
Fill out the form: Put in your personal details and passport information.
Upload a picture: Make sure your photo follows the UK’s rules.
Pay online: Pay the application fee.
Wait for an email: Send in your application and look out for your approval email!
Important Reminder: Before you apply, double-check that your passport is valid for at least 6 more months!
You Can’t Travel: Airlines will check for your ETA. If you show up without it, they will turn you away and you will miss your trip.
No Second Chances: If your ETA application is refused, there is no way to argue or appeal it.
Always check your passport and apply for your ETA nice and early. That way, you won’t have any stressful surprises on your vacation!
UKETA, Malaysia’s top visa agency for UK ETA since 2024, simplifies applications for tourism, business, study, and family visits. Our expert team ensures a fast, secure process with dedicated support.
Disclaimer: At UK ETA Malaysia We are a private company offering visa assistance and are not affiliated with the UK government. All official applications can be made at the official government website.
