UK Imposes Mandatory Digital Travel Permission for US, Canadian, and French Visitors

Starting February 25, 2026, travelers from 85 nations—including the United States, Canada, and France—cannot board UK-bound transport without an Electronic Travel Authorisation. The digital permission, distinct from a visa, authorizes travel to the border but doesn't guarantee entry. This mirrors systems used by the US and Australia, reflecting a global shift toward advance digital screening before travelers reach physical borders.