The United Kingdom has completed its transition to a fully digital border system, granting airlines the authority to refuse boarding to passengers traveling without valid eVisa or Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). This marks the end of the transition phase that previously accepted physical visa documents alongside digital permissions.
Mike Tapp, UK Minister for Migration and Citizenship, emphasized the importance of proper documentation: “I’d urge anyone wanting to travel to the UK to ensure they are travel-ready and have the right permission, to make their journey much smoother.”
UK Digital Border System Key Changes
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Effective Date | February 2026 |
| Who’s Affected | All travelers to UK including Indians |
| Key Change | Airlines can refuse boarding without digital permission |
| ETA Cost | £16 (₹1,970) for visa-exempt nationalities |
How UK eVisa System Affects Indian Travelers
Indian passport holders applying for UK visas must still visit visa application centres for biometric registration, but the process has been streamlined. Applicants no longer need to surrender their passports during visa processing, allowing them to retain their travel documents throughout the application period.
The UK Home Office has moved all visa holders to the digital UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) system, replacing biometric residence permits, passport visa vignette stickers, ink stamps, and biometric residence cards. Over 10 million eVisas have been issued during the phased rollout.
For comprehensive UK visa requirements and application guidance, Indian travelers should consult our detailed UK Visa Guide. Before submitting applications, use our Document Checklist to ensure all required paperwork is complete.
ETA Requirements for Visa-Exempt Countries
The Electronic Travel Authorisation system now covers 85 nationalities, including the United States, Canada, and France. These travelers, who previously entered the UK without visas, must obtain ETA approval before boarding flights.
Each ETA permits multiple journeys and remains valid for two years or until passport expiration. The UK Home Office compared its £16 fee structure to similar systems: the US ESTA costs $40 (approximately ₹3,300), while the European Union’s upcoming ETIAS will cost €20.
Airline Enforcement Powers
Airlines now have direct authority to prevent passengers from boarding UK-bound flights if they lack proper digital documentation. This represents a significant shift in border control enforcement, moving verification from arrival points to departure gates.
The Home Office stated that eVisas “cannot be lost, stolen or tampered with, and allow visa holders to instantly and securely prove their immigration rights.” All eVisa holders must ensure their UKVI accounts reflect current passport details to avoid travel disruptions.
Indian travelers should verify their digital permissions well before departure dates and update passport information in their UKVI accounts following any passport renewals. Check current UK visa processing times with our Processing Times tool to plan applications accordingly.
FAQ
Q: Can airlines really refuse boarding without eVisa or ETA? A: Yes, under the new UK digital border system, airlines have the authority to prevent passengers from boarding if they don’t hold valid eVisa, ETA, or other digital documentation.
Q: Do I still need to visit VFS centres for UK visa applications? A: Yes, Indian applicants must still visit visa application centres for biometric registration, but they no longer need to leave their passports behind during processing.
Q: How much does UK ETA cost for visa-exempt travelers? A: UK ETA costs £16 (approximately ₹1,970), allows multiple journeys, and remains valid for two years or until passport expiry, whichever comes first.
Q: What happens to my existing paper visa documents? A: All paper-based visa stickers, biometric residence permits, and physical documents have been replaced by the digital eVisa system as part of the UK’s complete transition.
Source: UK Home Office