Dubai: Emirates has issued a travel advisory for passengers flying to the United Kingdom, warning that new digital entry requirements will come into force from February 25, 2026.
The airline said travellers who require an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) must secure approval before departure, or they will not be permitted to board flights to the UK. The move is part of the British government’s wider plan to modernise border controls and transition fully to digital immigration systems.
The ETA is a digital travel permission for visitors who do not need a visa for short stays of up to six months. Emirates stressed that eligible passengers must apply online in advance, as entry to the UK will not be allowed without an approved ETA.
In a statement issued last year, the UK Home Office confirmed that visitors from 85 visa-free nationalities, including the United States, Canada and France, will need an ETA to travel legally to the UK from the February 2026 deadline.
British Minister for Migration and Citizenship Mike Tapp said the change would improve the travel experience, noting that digitising immigration processes will make entry smoother for the millions of visitors the UK welcomes each year.
UK moves fully to eVisas
Alongside the ETA rollout, the UK is also phasing out physical immigration documents and replacing them with eVisas.
Emirates advised passengers who hold a UK visa but still rely on physical documents, or those with expired biometric residence permits or cards, to create a UK Visas and Immigration account to access their eVisa. Travellers have been urged to complete this process early to avoid delays or disruption.
Indefinite Leave to Remain holders
Passengers with Indefinite Leave to Remain who currently prove their status using a passport stamp or vignette can apply for a free “No Time Limit” application. This allows their immigration status to be recorded digitally and linked directly to their passport.
Emirates said passengers should review the new requirements carefully before travelling, as airlines will be required to deny boarding to those who do not meet the updated UK entry rules.
