Spanish Travellers Need UK ETA from February 2026
Spanish citizens will require an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to visit the UK starting February 25, 2026, marking a new post-Brexit border control measure.
Starting February 2026, Spanish citizens planning to visit the United Kingdom will need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) if they don't have a visa or legal residency. This is a significant change for many travellers, especially those from places with strong links to the UK, like Tenerife. The new rule, confirmed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, means tighter border checks after Brexit.
The UK government has confirmed that from February 25, 2026, you must have this authorisation to board your flight. Airlines will not let passengers without an approved ETA travel. The ETA is for short visits by people from countries that don't usually need a visa. Its aim is to improve security and manage who enters the country. This will especially affect people travelling for holidays, business, visiting family, or just passing through the UK.
The Santa Cruz de Tenerife region, which has 325 flights a week to UK airports and sees 5.5 million passengers travel to or from the UK each year, is expected to be one of the areas most affected by this new rule.
However, not everyone needs an ETA. If you are a legal resident in the UK, you are exempt. You won't need an ETA, but you must keep your UKVI electronic account updated on the eVisas platform. British authorities also advise Spanish and British dual nationals to use their UK passport when travelling from the effective date to avoid any problems at boarding.
It's important to remember that an ETA does not give you permission to work or study in the UK. For these activities, even for short periods, you will still need to apply for the correct visa.
UK authorities are urging everyone to apply for the ETA only through the official UK Government website. They warn against many private companies offering the service at high prices and highlight the risk of scams. It's recommended to apply at least three working days before you plan to travel. While most applications are approved quickly, sometimes within minutes, some may take longer if they need a closer look.
This new system means Spanish travellers, especially those from the Canary Islands where the UK is a popular destination, must plan their trips in advance to avoid any issues or being denied boarding.