Visitors planning short stays of up to six months in the United Kingdom (UK) will be required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) from February 25, 2026, in a bid to streamline border security and make entry procedures fully digital.
The measure will affect travellers from 85 nationalities, including the United States, Canada and France, who currently do not need a visa to enter the UK.
The British High Commission in Kenya warned that anyone failing to comply will not be allowed to board their transport or legally enter the UK once the rule takes effect.
“If you do not need a visa to visit the UK for short stays of up to six months, you need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). From February 25, 2026, without an ETA you will not be able to board your transport or legally travel to the UK,” reads the statement.
Mike Tapp, Minister for Migration and Citizenship, added, “ETAs give us greater power to stop those who pose a threat from setting foot in the country and gives us a fuller picture of immigration. ETAs are also better for travellers. Digitising the immigration system ensures the millions of people we welcome to the UK every year enjoy a more seamless travel experience.”
Since its launch in October 2023, more than 13.3 million visitors have successfully applied for ETAs, benefiting from faster and smoother travel. While the ETA was initially not strictly enforced to allow visitors time to adjust, carriers will now check for digital permission before travel, and border officials retain the final decision on entry.
The ETA, which costs Sh2,785 (£16), must be applied for online or through the official UK ETA app. The embassy cautioned against using third-party websites that charge higher fees or mimic government services.
“Every traveller must have their own ETA, including babies and children, though one person can apply on behalf of others,” the embassy added.
With an ETA, travellers can stay in the UK for up to six months for tourism, family visits, business trips or short-term study. It also allows travel under the Creative Worker visa concession, participation in permitted paid engagements, and transit through UK airports.
However, it does not permit regular work, claiming public benefits, living in the UK through frequent visits, or marrying or registering a civil partnership. No refunds will be issued once an application is submitted.
Decisions are usually sent by email within one day, along with a 16-digit ETA reference number. Applicants who do not receive a response within three working days are advised to contact UK Visas and Immigration. The ETA is electronically linked to the passport used for the application, valid for two years or until the passport expires, and allows multiple trips during that period.
British and Irish citizens, including dual nationals, are exempt. The UK government has urged dual citizens to ensure they have a valid British passport or certificate of entitlement to avoid being denied boarding from 25 February 2026.
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