The government has warned that operators of heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) and lorries may require a digital authorisation document to enter the UK.
HGV drivers travelling to the UK without a visa will need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). This applies to drivers who don’t need a visa for short stays of up to six months and who don’t already have a UK immigration status.
The changes have been made under the new immigration system, which the government says is a more “streamlined, digital immigration system”.
From 25 February 2026, the government says that “those who do not have an ETA will be unable to board their transport and will not be permitted to travel to the UK”.
How to apply
Visitors can find more information about applying for an ETA at GOV.UK and download the UK ETA app to apply.
Whether an ETA or visa is needed depends on the visitor’s nationality.
An ETA costs £16 and permits multiple journeys to the UK for stays of up to six months at a time over two years or until the holder’s passport expires – whichever is sooner.
According to a government information pack, “most applications made on the UK ETA app are approved in minutes, but you should allow three working days for a decision.”
