No Registration, No Boarding: UK ETA Updates

UK travel update for 2026: ETA enforcement starts 25 February (what it means for travellers from Spain)

If you travel to the United Kingdom from Spain, an important change is about to happen: from 25 February 2026, the UK will begin actively enforcing its Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) requirement for visa-free visitors. In practical terms, this means: no ETA (when one is required), no boarding.

Below is a clear, “do-this-now” guide to help you avoid last-minute travel problems.

What is the UK ETA?

An ETA is a digital travel permission linked to your passport. It is designed for people who can visit the UK without a visa for short stays, but who must still obtain authorisation before travelling.

What changes on 25 February 2026?

Until now, the ETA scheme has been rolling out with lighter enforcement to give travellers time to adapt. From 25 February 2026, the UK moves into “full enforcement”: airlines and carriers will check ETA/eVisa status before travel, and passengers who should have an ETA but do not may be refused boarding.

Who needs an ETA?

The UK has stated that visa-free visitors from “85 nationalities” will need an ETA from 25 February 2026

If you are unsure, the safest approach is:

Check your nationality’s ETA status before booking, and
Apply early if you may need one.

(UK government guidance is the best reference point for eligibility and changes.)

How much does it cost and how long does it take?

Cost: £16
Decision timing: often fast, but allow up to 3 working days
How to apply: typically via the UK ETA app

Dual British citizens: do NOT apply for an ETA

This is where many travellers get caught out.

If you are a dual British citizen (British + another nationality), the UK advises that you should travel using a valid British passport or have a certificate of entitlement, otherwise you risk complications and even being denied boarding from 25 February 2026.

Key point: An ETA is for people who need travel authorisation as visitors. British citizens are not “visitors” to the UK for immigration purposes—so the practical solution is ensuring you have the correct British documentation in place before travelling.

Why are airlines taking this so seriously?

Carriers are expected to check ETA status before departure. The Majorca Daily Bulletin article also notes that operators may face civil penalties (reported up to £50,000 per flight or ferry journey) if they fail to comply, which is why airline checks are likely to be strict.

Quick checklist before you travel to the UK

If you are NOT British/Irish and you usually travel to the UK visa-free:

Confirm whether your nationality requires an ETA for your travel date.
Apply via the official process and don’t leave it to the last minute (allow 3 working days).
Travel with the same passport used for the ETA (the ETA is linked digitally to that passport).

If you are a dual British citizen:

Travel on your British passport (or arrange a certificate of entitlement) well in advance.

Final note (important)

Travel rules can change and can be applied differently depending on route, carrier, and status (visitor vs resident/settled status). If you have any uncertainty—especially for dual nationals—it is worth checking the relevant official guidance before you fly.