The United Kingdom (UK) will begin fully enforcing its Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system for travellers from visa-free countries from 25 February next year.
The requirement, which has been in a soft-launch phase since January, was initially implemented with limited checks to give airports, airlines and passengers time to adjust.
Once fully activated, the rule will apply to both travellers entering the UK and those transiting through British airports if their connection involves passing through passport control. Airlines will be expected to verify that travellers from visa-exempt nations have an approved ETA before allowing them to board.
The ETA forms part of the UK’s broader plan to establish a fully digital border, aligning its processes with systems already used in the United States, Canada and soon the European Union. The aim is to enhance pre-arrival screening while easing entry procedures at UK ports.
The rollout has been phased in over the past two years. Travellers from Gulf Cooperation Council countries and Jordan were the first required to obtain an ETA in 2023, with additional visa-free nationalities added gradually ahead of next year’s full enforcement.
What this means for South Africans
South Africans are not classified as visa-free visitors to the UK, which means the ETA does not replace the existing visa requirement. Travellers using a South African passport will still need to apply for a standard visitor visa.
However, the change may affect South Africans who hold dual citizenship. Those travelling on a second passport from a visa-exempt country, such as an EU member state, will be required to secure an ETA when entering or transiting through the UK on that passport.
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