Indefinite Leave to Remain holders
Passengers with Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) who currently prove their status using a passport stamp or vignette can apply for a free ‘No Time Limit’ application to access an eVisa.
This ensures their immigration status is recorded digitally and linked to their passport.
Emirates also reminded passengers who already hold an eVisa to make sure the passport they plan to travel with is linked to their UK Visas and Immigration account.
If not, they must update their details online before flying.
The introduction of the ETA brings the UK in line with countries such as the US, Canada and Australia, which already require electronic travel authorisation for visa-free visitors.
What UAE travellers should do now?
With the UK being one of the most popular destinations for travellers from the UAE, Emirates urged passengers to:
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Check if they need an ETA
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Apply well in advance of travel
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Ensure their visa or immigration status is fully digital
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Update passport details on their UK account
Failure to do so could mean being stopped at check-in.
The UK first launched its Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme in October 2023, starting with Qatari nationals, before expanding it to Gulf count, including the UAE, UAE in February 2024.
The rollout was widened to more visa-free nationalities in late 2024 and early 2025, as part of the UK’s move to fully digitise its borders. From February 25, 2026, the system will be strictly enforced, with travellers without an approved ETA denied boarding.
Dhanusha is a Chief Reporter at Gulf News in Dubai, with her finger firmly on the pulse of UAE, regional, and global aviation. She dives deep into how airlines and airports operate, expand, and embrace the latest tech.
Known for her sharp eye for detail, Dhanusha makes complex topics like new aircraft, evolving travel trends, and aviation regulations easy to grasp. Lately, she’s especially fascinated by the world of eVTOLs and flying cars.
With nearly two decades in journalism, Dhanusha’s covered a wide range, from health and education to the pandemic, local transport, and technology. When she’s not tracking what’s happening in the skies, she enjoys exploring social media trends, tech innovations, and anything that sparks reader curiosity. Outside of work, you’ll find her immersed in electronic dance music, pop culture, movies, and video games.
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