Starting 25th February 2026, Malaysians, along with visitors from 84 other countries, will no longer be allowed to legally travel to the United Kingdom without an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). According to the UK government, all visa-free visitors without an ETA or eVisa will be barred from boarding flights or entering the country.
The ETA is a digital permit for short-term visits in the UK, allowing visitors to stay there for up to six months, whether for tourism, family visits, or short business trips. It’s not a visa or an air travel tax, unlike similar charges imposed by some other countries.
Although the ETA scheme has existed since October 2023, it hasn’t been strictly enforced to give travellers time to adjust.
“ETAs give us greater power to stop those who pose a threat from setting foot in the country and give 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,” explains Mike Tapp, the UK’s Minister for Migration and Citizenship.
How to apply for an ETA?
- Visitors can apply for an ETA through the official UK ETA app or via the UK government website.
- Applicants need to provide contact information, passport details, and a valid photo. The application costs around 16 pounds (RM88).
- Once approved, the permit is typically valid for two years or until passport expiry.
