UK Mandates eVisas and ETAs for Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and 68+ Countries from Feb 2026
The UK is implementing a fully digital immigration system on 25 February 2026, requiring nationals from over 70 countries, including Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Brazil, Italy, and Iceland, to obtain eVisas or ETAs before travel. This Border 2025 initiative replaces physical visas with digital records linked to passports. Travelers from visa-required and exempt nations face updated entry procedures according to UK Immigration reports.
UK Rolls Out Digital Immigration System Impacting Dozens of Countries
According to a report from UK Immigration, the United Kingdom plans to launch a comprehensive digital border system on 25 February 2026. This change, under the Border 2025 program, mandates that travelers from numerous nations secure eVisas or Electronic Travel Authorisations (ETAs) prior to arrival. The system links digital permissions directly to passports, phasing out traditional visa stickers and entry stamps.
Important Caveat
This information is general and sourced from UK Immigration (https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/...). Rules may evolve; always verify with official UK government sites for the latest details. Not legal advice.
Nations such as Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Brazil, Italy, Iceland, and Mexico, alongside more than 68 others, will encounter these requirements. Both individuals from visa-required countries and visa-exempt countries must comply, potentially causing adjustments in travel planning.
- Mandatory eVisa or ETA application before travel
- Digital records replace physical documents
- Applies to air, sea, and land entries
- Part of broader UK border modernization efforts
Affected Nationalities and Entry Changes
The UK Immigration source highlights that this shift aims for a streamlined process but introduces stricter pre-travel checks. Travelers generally need to apply online for these digital authorisations, which are then verified electronically at borders.
Key Dates and Requirements
Related Updates on Dual Nationals
Separate reports from UK Immigration note that dual British citizens from countries like Australia and Canada must present a British passport or Certificate of Entitlement from the same date, aligning with the ETA rollout (sources: https://www.abc.net.au/... and https://immigrationnewscanada.ca/...).
Travel Industry Concerns
Industry voices have urged delays due to awareness gaps, but the Home Office timeline stands firm per the sources.
Which countries need eVisas or ETAs?
Over 70 nations including Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and others, as listed in UK Immigration reports.
What happens to physical visas?
They are replaced by digital versions linked to passports under the new system.
Do British dual nationals need ETAs?
No, but they must use British passports or certificates, according to Home Office rules.
Source Attribution
Details drawn from UK Immigration articles dated around February 2026. Check gov.uk for official guidance.