The UK’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme is entering a new phase — and business travellers will feel the impact first.
As the system becomes fully mandatory from 25 February 2026, the government has confirmed that the ETA fee will rise once more, increasing from £16 to £20. Although the exact implementation date has not yet been announced, the change has already been approved and is expected to take effect in the near future.
For frequent travellers, corporate mobility teams and travel managers, the shift marks another step in the UK’s transition to a fully digital border — one that places more responsibility on travellers to secure authorisation before departure.
A Hard Deadline: “No ETA, No Travel”
From 25 February 2026, carriers will be required to deny boarding to any visa‑exempt traveller who does not hold a valid ETA. Airlines, ferry operators and rail services will all be subject to penalties if they transport passengers without the required authorisation.
The grace period that previously allowed some flexibility — particularly for European travellers — will end. For business travellers used to last‑minute trips, this represents a significant operational shift.
Why the Fee Is Increasing
The government has signalled that the rise to £20 is part of a broader update to immigration and border‑security fees. The additional revenue is intended to support the continued development of the UK’s digital border infrastructure and enhanced pre‑arrival screening.
The increase follows a previous jump from £10 to £16 in 2025, meaning the cost of an ETA will have doubled within two years.
What the ETA Allows
Once approved, an ETA permits multiple entries into the UK for stays of up to six months at a time and remains valid for two years or until the traveller’s passport expires. The authorisation also applies to Jersey, Guernsey and the Isle of Man as the system expands across the Crown Dependencies.
Applications are fully digital, with most decisions issued within minutes, though travellers are advised to apply at least three working days before departure in case additional checks are required.