No ETA, no entry; Emirates Airlines issues travel advisory for UK-bound passengers

Emirates Airlines has advised travellers to the United Kingdom to familiarise themselves with the new changes in British travel requirements as the country is beginning to transition to digital immigration systems and adopting the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).

The carrier explained on its website that the British authorities began replacing traditional immigration paper documents with electronic visas (eVisa) and imposing an electronic travel authorisation as a mandatory procedure for travelers who did not need a prior visa for short visits not exceeding six months.

Eligible passengers who do not hold an ETA will not be allowed to board the aircraft from Feb.25, 2026 and will not be able to travel to the United Kingdom legally, the carrier said, urging its customers to check the travel requirements and apply for the authorisation through official channels well in advance of the flight date.

The carrier also urged travelers with British visas who are still using paper immigration documents or who hold expired biometric residence permits, to create an account with the British Visa and Immigration Department to convert their status to an electronic visa (eVisa).

Holders of indefinite leave to remain (ILR) who prove their status with a stamp or sticker on their passport can apply for a free eVisa, the carrier said, stressing the importance of updating passport data linked to the eVisa to avoid any delays or problems during travel.

The carrier underlined its commitment to keeping its passengers abreast of the latest international travel requirements, urging them to follow official guidelines and ensure all procedures are completed before heading to the airport.