From 25 February 2026, travellers from visa-exempt countries including Malaysia will no longer be allowed to enter the United Kingdom without Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA).
The ETA is a digital travel authorization for short-term visits to the UK. It is not a visa or an air travel tax, unlike similar charges imposed by some other countries. With an approved ETA, travellers can stay in the UK for up to six months for tourism, family visits, or short business trips.
Under the new rules announced by the UK Home Office, all non-visa short stay visitors from about 85 nationalities must hold a valid Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) or eVisa to travel to the UK. Airlines and carriers will be required to deny boarding to anyone without the necessary permit. Through the ETA scheme has existed since October 2023, enforcement has so far been relaxed, giving travellers time to adjust.
What Malaysians need to do:
- Malaysian travellers planning holidays, short trips or transit through the UK must apply for the ETA before booking flights.
- ETA Applications are done online (UK ETA app or official website) and cost around 16 pounds (RM88)
- Once approved, the permit is typically valid for two years or until passport expiry
Mike Tapp, the UK’s Minister for Migration and Citizenship said the introduction of ETAs strengthens border security by allowing authorities to block high-risk individuals before they arrive and provides a clearer picture of overall immigration. The system also improves the travel experience, as digitization makes entry into the UK faster and more seamless for the millions of visitors welcomed each year.
Source:SAYS
