🇬🇧 Travelling to the UK in 2026: compulsory ETA and 10 essential things to know before you go

Planning a trip to the UK today requires more than just a plane ticket.
With the introduction ofETA UK (Electronic Travel Authorization), post-Brexit customs formalities, the cost of living and new transport rules, it’s essential to be well informed before you leave.

Whether you’re dreaming of admiring Tower Bridge in London, exploring the Scottish Highlands, hiking in Wales or strolling the streets of Belfast, this comprehensive guide tells you everything you need to know before travelling to the UK in 2026, so you can avoid any nasty surprises and make the most of your stay.

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1. 🛂 The UK ETA is now compulsory to enter the UK

Since 2023, and continuing in 2026, the UK government has made the ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) compulsory for travellers from many countries around the world.

This authorisation is essential for tourist, business or family trips of less than 6 months.
Without a valid ETA, boarding is denied at the airport or port.

💡 Good to know:
The UK ETA does not replace a visa for long-term stays, study or work.

✅ Apply easily on eta-uk-apply.com with 100% guidance in English, manual checking and 7/7 support.

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2. 📅 Duration and conditions of validity of the ETA

Once approved, your ETA is valid for 2 years from the date of issue, or until the expiry date of your passport.

This means that you can make several visits to the UK during this period, provided that each visit does not exceed 6 consecutive months.

⚠️ If you renew your passport, you will need to reapply for an ETA, as the authorisation is linked to the passport number.

💡 Practical tip: before you leave, check that your passport remains valid for at least 6 months after your return date. This makes it easier to enter the UK.

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3. ✈️ When and how to apply for an ETA

Although ETAs are often processed quickly (between 24 and 72 hours), some applications may need to be checked manually, particularly in the event of a data-entry error or security check.

➡️ To avoid any stress before departure, it is advisable to apply at least 7 days before travelling.

The process is 100% online:

1. Fill in the official form in English on eta-uk-apply.com
2. Check your details (passport, name, e-mail address, dates)
3. Pay securely online
4. Receive your approved ETA by e-mail

✅ You can then print it out or simply keep it on your smartphone.

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4. 🧳 Essential travel documents

Since the Brexit, the conditions for entering the UK have changed.
Identity cards are no longer accepted: only passports are valid.

Here is the list of documents required on arrival:

• 🛂 Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity recommended)
• 📧 Approved ETA (printed or digital)
• 📍 Proof of accommodation (hotel or flat reservation)
• 💳 Proof of sufficient funds (bank card or statement)
• ✈️ Return ticket or proof of leaving the country

💡 Tip: prepare these items in a paper or digital file. UK border officials are rigorous, especially since 2021.

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5. 💷 Budget in pounds sterling (£)

The United Kingdom does not use the euro. The official currency is the pound sterling (GBP).
In 2026, the average exchange rate is around £1 = €1.17, but this can vary.

international bank cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted.
However, some small shops or taxis prefer payment in cash.

💡 Practical tip:

• Change a small amount before you leave.
• Avoid exchange offices in airports (unfavourable rates).
• Use neobanks such as Revolut or N26 to pay without hidden charges.

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6. getting around: efficient but expensive transport

The British network is one of the most developed in Europe.
However, prices can be high, especially in London.

🚆 In England:

• The London Underground (Tube) remains the fastest way.
• Use an Oyster Card or your contactless bank card.
• Intercity trains (Avanti, LNER, GWR) connect all the major cities.

🚍 In Scotland and Wales :

• Regional trains and long-distance buses (Stagecoach, Megabus).
• Discounts available if you book in advance.

🚖 In Northern Ireland:

• Translink network combining train and bus.

💡 Tip: plan your journeys on the National Rail website to compare fares and avoid peak times.

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7. 🏨 Accommodation: book in advance, especially in summer

Britain’s major cities are very busy, especially between May and September.
Rates can double during festivals, football matches or cultural events.

➡️ Book your accommodation in advance, even for short stays.
Platforms such as Booking, Expedia or Airbnb offer options with free cancellation, ideal for keeping flexibility.

💡 Proof of accommodation: the authorities may ask for it at the border, even for a simple weekend.

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8. ☔ British weather: be prepared for anything!

The reputation of the British climate is no myth 😅.
Even at the height of summer, it’s common to have sun in the morning, rain at midday and wind in the evening.

✅ What to pack:

• A waterproof jacket
• Comfortable, waterproof footwear
• A compact umbrella
• A small medical kit (headaches, colds, etc.)

💡 Download the Met Office app for hour-by-hour local forecasts.

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9. 📶 Internet and telephony: beware of roaming

Since the Brexit, free roaming is no longer guaranteed.
Some French operators now charge for mobile calls, texts and data in the UK.

💡 Cost-effective solutions:

• Buy a UK eSIM (Airalo, Holafly, Nomad) before you leave
• Buy a local SIM (Three, EE, O2) at the airport
• Use the free public Wi-Fi available in most cafés, hotels and transport facilities

⚠️ Check your package before you leave to avoid unpleasant surprises on your bill.

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10. ⚠️ Beware of ETA scams

Many bogus websites claim to issue the ETA, but some do not provide any valid authorisation or assistance.
They often take advantage of travellers’ lack of knowledge to charge excessive fees.

✅ To avoid any risk, use eta-uk-apply.com :

• 7/7 English-speaking assistance
• Human verification of files
• Secure payment with no hidden charges
• Rapid support in the event of an error

💡 Reminder: the UK does not offer free ETAs, so beware of low-cost « official » offers.

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🧭 Full pre-departure checklist

✅ Things to do	📌 Important details
Request your ETA	On eta-uk-apply.com
Passport	Valid for at least 6 months after the date of return
Accommodation	Booked and confirmable
Money	Pound sterling, card or cash
Documents	ETA, proof of accommodation, return ticket
Transport	Oyster Card, train tickets, reservations
Health	European Health Insurance Card or travel insurance
Telephone	Check roaming or plan for an eSIM

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🚀 To sum up: take it easy in the UK

The UK remains a fascinating destination full of contrasts.
With a little preparation, your stay will be stress-free and full of discoveries:
from London to Edinburgh, from the cliffs of Wales to the Mournes mountain range in Northern Ireland.

Above all, don’t forget your UK ETA, now essential for entering the UK.

👉 Apply for your ETA now on eta-uk-apply.com
the leading French-language service for worry-free travel to the UK.