The UK government has officially launched its Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system today, requiring travelers from 85 countries—including the US, Canada, and Australia—to obtain digital permission before flying. The move is part of a broader strategy to digitize the UK's border by 2026 and improve security by screening visitors before they arrive. Officials have used the slogan "no permission, no travel" to emphasize the mandatory nature of the new rule Euronews.

While the digital application process is designed to be quick and cost roughly £10, there have been reports of minor technical glitches on the first day of implementation. Tourism boards expressed concern that the extra layer of bureaucracy might deter spontaneous travelers, but the Home Office maintains that the system is essential for modernizing immigration control and ensuring a smoother entry process for legitimate visitors Euronews.