Barbados, Mexico, Brazil, Canada, the Bahamas, Panama, Costa Rica and many other nations will face a new travel rule for the United Kingdom. From 25 February 2026, citizens of these countries must secure an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before they can enter the UK for tourism, business or short visits. This is a major shift from previous visa-free arrangements for short stays.
The UK government has made the ETA mandatory for citizens of about 85 visa-exempt countries. Visitors must apply online and receive approval prior to departure. Airlines and other transport companies will check ETA status before boarding. Travellers without an approved ETA will be denied boarding.
This change affects all visa-exempt travellers, not just tourists, and marks a significant shift in UK border policy as the nation modernises its immigration control.
What Is the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)?
The ETA is a digital travel permit, not a visa. It grants permission to travel to the UK and is linked electronically to your passport. The authorisation is required for short stays of up to six months for purposes such as tourism, visiting family, business trips, short studies and transit.
Once approved, the ETA is valid for up to two years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. Travellers can make multiple visits to the UK within this period without applying again. The ETA system is similar to other global schemes like the USA’s ESTA, but from February 2026 it will be strictly enforced.
Who Must Apply for an ETA?
From 25 February 2026, citizens of the following countries must obtain ETA approval before travelling to the UK:
- Barbados
- Canada
- Mexico
- Brazil
- The Bahamas
- Panama
- Costa Rica
This requirement also applies to travellers from many other parts of the world where visa-free travel to the UK was previously allowed. The rule includes tourists, business visitors and passengers transiting through the UK.
Travellers from the UK, Ireland or people who already hold a UK visa or immigration permission do not need an ETA.
How to Apply for the ETA
Applying for an ETA is done online through the UK government’s official ETA portal or app. The process is designed to be quick and user-friendly:
- Check if your nationality requires an ETA.
- Submit your application online.
- Pay the fee (£16 per person).
- Provide passport details and basic information.
- Wait for approval, usually within minutes to a few days.
Most travellers receive approval quickly. However, it is crucial to apply before booking travel to avoid delays or denial of boarding.
ETA Fee and Validity
The ETA comes with a fee of £16 per person. This fee is payable online at the time of application. The ETA is valid for multiple visits over a two-year period or until the passport expires. Travellers must carry the same passport used for the ETA application when they travel.
This fee replaces the previous informal visa-free entry and ensures travellers have pre-cleared permission to fly to the UK.
Impacts on Tourism and Travel
Tourism Adjustments
The new ETA requirement may affect spontaneous travel and booking patterns. Tourists who were used to visa-free entry must now plan ahead. Travel agencies, airlines and tour operators in Barbados, Mexico, Canada and other countries will need to educate travellers about the ETA to avoid unexpected problems at departure.
Business Travel Considerations
Business travellers will also feel the impact. Frequent business visits to London or other UK cities now require travellers to include ETA applications in their planning. Even for short meetings and conferences, ETA approval must be secured before departure.
Preparing for the New Rule: What Travellers Must Do
To adapt to this new rule, travellers should follow these steps:
- Plan Ahead: Don’t wait until the last minute. Apply early for your ETA.
- Check Eligibility: Confirm whether your nationality requires ETA before planning.
- Use Correct Details: Enter accurate passport and personal information.
- Save Confirmation: Keep ETA approval on hand when you travel.
Without an approved ETA, travellers will not be permitted to board flights, ferries or trains bound for the UK. This rule is now strictly enforced by transport carriers.
What Happens Without an ETA?
Failing to obtain an ETA before travel can disrupt your entire trip. Transport companies are responsible for checking ETA status before departure. If you lack a valid ETA, they will refuse boarding. This can lead to missed flights and extra costs. It is therefore essential to secure ETA approval well before your travel date.
Final Takeaway: A New Era for UK Travel
The UK’s Electronic Travel Authorisation system represents a significant change in how travellers from Barbados, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, the Bahamas, Panama, Costa Rica and many others enter the country. This digital authorisation must be obtained before travel and can simplify entry once approved.
Travelers and tourism professionals alike should be ready for this new rule from 25 February 2026. Planning ahead and understanding the ETA process will help ensure smooth travel to the UK in this new era of pre-travel authorization.
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