UK Government Sets £20 ETA Fee for Family Visits in 2026

The UK government confirmed that the cost for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for individuals visiting family members in the United Kingdom in 2026 is £20. This announcement includes a warning to applicants about the prevalence of third-party websites that mimic official government services and charge inflated fees.

The UK government emphasized that obtaining an ETA does not guarantee entry into the United Kingdom, Jersey, Guernsey, or the Isle of Man. The ETA serves as a pre-travel requirement, and border officers retain the authority to refuse entry upon arrival, regardless of whether a traveller possesses an ETA.

Prior to the introduction of this scheme, eligible travellers could arrive without electronic clearance. The £20 fee now applies universally to those requiring the authorisation.

Travellers are advised to apply early and ensure they are using the official government website to avoid scams, as highlighted in a post by UK Visas and Immigration on September 29, 2026.