The UK has abolished paper arrival cards since 2019. For visa-exempt travelers, a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) will be mandatory for entry starting 25 February 2026.
Book Flights to UK
London
Manchester
Birmingham
Edinburgh
See All Flights
What is the UK Arrival Card?
The UK’s paper arrival card, a document used to collect traveler information on arrival, was officially abolished on 20 May 2019. There is no physical or digital arrival card required for entry today. All pre-arrival and entry details are captured through the UK ETA (for visa-exempt visitors) or a UK eVisa (for visa-required nationals). UK and Irish citizens only need a valid passport for entry.
Do I need a UK Arrival Card now?
No, the paper arrival card is no longer in use. Your required entry document depends on your nationality:
- Visa-exempt nationals: UK ETA (mandatory from 25 February 2026)
- Nationals requiring a visa: UK eVisa (applied for via UK Visas and Immigration)
- UK/Irish citizens: Valid passport only
What is the UK ETA and when does it start?
The UK ETA is the digital replacement for the old arrival card, required for short visits to the UK.
- Full enforcement date: 25 February 2026 (carriers will refuse boarding to travelers without a valid ETA)
- Cost: £16 (GBP)
- Validity: 2 years, or until your passport expires (whichever is earlier)
- Application: Online only, with instant approval for most applications
What is ETIAS for the UK?
ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) is an EU-wide system for non-EU citizens traveling to the Schengen Area. It does not apply to UK entry in 2026:
- ETIAS is scheduled to launch for the EU in Q4 2026, with enforcement expected in 2027
- The UK ETA and EU ETIAS are two separate, unrelated systems
What are the 2026 UK entry requirements?
We’ve summarized the core entry requirements by traveler category in the table below:
Traveler Category | Required Document | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|
UK/Irish citizens | Valid passport | No additional authorisation needed |
Visa-exempt nationals (85 countries: US, EU, Australia, Japan, etc.) | UK ETA | Mandatory from 25 February 2026 |
Nationals requiring a visa | UK eVisa | Applied for in advance through official UKVI channels |
Transit passengers (no passport control) | Exempt (check carrier rules) | May need transit authorisation for specific routes |
How to apply for the UK ETA online?
Applying for the UK ETA is a fully online process with no in-person steps:
- Prepare your biometric passport, email address, payment card, and a UK-compliant passport photo
- Complete the application form on the official UK government portal or ETA app
- Provide personal information, passport details, travel purpose, and answer security questions
- Pay the £16 application fee
- Receive an email confirmation with your ETA reference (linked to your passport) – no physical document is required
When should I apply for the UK ETA?
Apply at least 72 hours before your travel date. Most applications are approved within minutes, but applying in advance avoids last-minute delays. Airlines verify ETA status during check-in, and no forms need to be filled out on arrival in the UK.
What common mistakes should I avoid for UK entry?
Mistakes to avoid
- Entering inaccurate personal or passport details (must match your travel document exactly)
- Applying for the ETA too close to your travel date
- Using unauthorised third-party websites (only apply via official UK government channels)
- Failing to update your ETA information if you renew your passport
Consequences of no valid ETA (after 25 February 2026)
- Carriers will refuse to let you board your flight or ferry
- UK border force may refuse your entry if you manage to travel without an ETA
- The £16 ETA fee is non-refundable for most rejected applications
UK eSIMs
UK hotels
Fly to UK
See All Attractions
76437 booked
What additional UK entry rules apply in 2026?
Beyond the UK ETA or visa, you must meet these basic requirements:
- Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after your planned departure from the UK
- You need to provide proof of sufficient funds to support your stay in the UK
- You must declare the true reason for your visit (no unauthorised work or illegal activities)
- Declare goods or cash worth over £1,000 upon arrival; prohibited items will be seized
[10% Off] UK Hotel Recommendations
UK Hotels
5 star
Very Good324 Reviews
Bank London|3.48km from city center
Upon arrival we had a free upgrade to our suite! Spacious room with a small kitchen with a kettle, coffee machine, fridge and microwave and the bathroom was great too. Appreciate that there was a built in vanity space. The service was lovely and we made use of the spa and got well needed massages. If we were staying for longer I would definitely have made more use of the other treatments and amenities available. Staff were very friendly and helpful at both the hotel and spa.
Being in East London there was plenty of food places nearby and access to public transport. Makes it pretty Muslim friendly considering the location. Best hotel experience I've had so far and well worth the price.
Got the £100 insurance deposit back the same day as well which was lovely.FromVND 4,275,589
Amazing396 Reviews
Tower Hill London|3.18km from city center
It’s a conveniently located apartment and the service quality and cleanliness is great, thank you the Cheval three quays team!FromVND 8,189,162
Very Good105 Reviews
Shoreditch London|3.54km from city center
very good. The location is very good, close to the subway station, the room is small and the bed is very comfortable. Breakfast is a bit simple and costs £25 for a separate fee. Bottled water is delivered daily and there is a bar downstairs. Overall still very good 乛FromVND 5,041,536
Very Good46 Reviews
South Kensington London|4.09km from city center
A memorable stay from start to finish!
I had an exceptional experience at the Queen’s Hotel Curio Collection. The property is stunning, a perfect balance of historic charm and modern elegance. Our room was beautifully designed, spotlessly clean, and incredibly comfortable, with thoughtful details that made the stay feel truly special. The staff went above and beyond throughout my visit.
Warm, attentive, and genuinely welcoming, they made me feel valued from the moment I arrived. Every interaction was professional yet personal, which really elevated the entire experience. The location was ideal for exploring the city, and the hotel’s atmosphere made it the perfect place to unwind after a long day. Whether enjoying a quiet moment in the lobby or a drink at the bar, everything felt curated with care. I highly recommend this hotel to anyone looking for refined comfort, outstanding service, and a memorable stay. I can’t wait to return!FromVND 4,553,769
Great105 Reviews
Bank London|3.24km from city center
We booked two rooms for a 2-night family stay in London—a Devonshire Suite and a Classic Room. The hotel’s cleanliness, amenities and location were excellent, with plenty of eateries nearby, as well as a Tesco express and Liverpool Street Station just a short walk away.
However, there was a small hiccup during our stay. We had extended our check-out to 2 PM due to late flight, but it seems this wasn’t communicated to housekeeping or room service, as they followed up twice to ask if we were checking out.
We also had dinner at Straits Kitchen for one of our dinner, service was a little slow.
Other than that, we were very pleased with our rooms.FromVND 11,603,536
Business travel
Very Good217 Reviews
Heathrow Hounslow|3.59km from city center
It's quite far from the airport, actually the furthest among all the hotels near the airport. Luckily, there's a bus stop right outside, so you can take a direct bus from the airport. There's also a small convenience store downstairs, though it's a bit messy.FromVND 2,111,120
Very Good112 Reviews
London|6.86km from city center
I and my friends lodge for one night, I must recommend every other thing was okay aside from the customer service which is too poor, we realize no single shower gel was in the bathroom the bottles were all emptied, we called the customer service for shower gel and toothpaste to be brought to the room. we where told the paste wasn’t free it was sold,I told them never to bother about the paste and just bring the shower gel. we waited for 1 hour and it still wasn’t brought, we called over and over just for them to bring shower gel to the room, but they kept putting us on hold for over 3 hours, I had to go to the reception to collect the shower gel myself and they kept me waiting at the reception for over 5 minutes before it was handed over to me, this experience was terrible.FromVND 3,604,908
Good329 Reviews
Bayswater London|4.15km from city center
Windowless, damp basement double room, not at all as advertised on the site. Be mindful that you will end up in the basement, with no chance to move if any of the standard double rooms with windows are occupied. They should make it clear that you're booking a basement room with no windows, mis-selling, in my opinion. Other hotels are quite clear that you're booking a windowless room upfront. Damp smell was prevalent, particularly at check-in before turning the air-conditioning on. Morning was dark since it's the basement. It's good if you like that, and want to sleep. Hopefully, you don't miss your checkout.FromVND 1,558,570
Very Good231 Reviews
London|7.11km from city center
The restaurant is at the highest floor, very nice view and I was lucky enough to have one breakfast with a view on the window side during my stay. The staff were very friendly and nice, although the mornings were very busy as everyone had breakfast at the same time and have to queue up and wait for a table.
I would like to thank Ms. Aline and Alina, very kind and sincere to support the operation of the breakfast session, to me and the others.
The nice thing here is not just the view, but the staff are so friendly and helpful, I believe they love and enjoy working at Novotel and Novotel values their staff. Food is good, above standard of Novotel. Regret that I was too busy and could not enjoy the swimming pool and gym at the -1 level.
Happy to stay here again if I have to come over to the trade shows around.FromVND 4,031,705
Very Good788 Reviews
Bank London|3.29km from city center
I absolutely loved their cookies; I left in such a rush that I forgot to ask for more. We booked an executive room, which gave us access to the executive lounge on the ground floor – it was great for snacks and drinks. The room facilities were pretty good, and it was cleaned daily. The hotel's location is superb; you can walk to Tower Bridge right outside, and it's incredibly convenient to get to the subway station and the river for boat rides. It's about an hour by subway to Heathrow Airport. However, avoid the restaurant downstairs – we ate there twice and everything we ordered, including the more expensive steak, was terrible.FromVND 3,772,578
Family friendly
Very Good52 Reviews
Bromley|1.41km from city center
Absolutely loved the location and will definitely return. The service and attention to detail from the reception team especially is 10/10.
Certain areas of the hotel need refurbishing - even if just a lick of paint for now as they aren't in line with the rest of the hotel.
The room was small but practical and unfortunately didn't have the best of views but that's not an issue. I felt comfortable and safe during my stay. Had a minor issue with the air con unit which is very dated and didn't match the aesthetic of a modern and refurbished room which looks very appealing.
Overall, would be very happy to visit again especially during the summer and try out their dinner menu.FromVND 2,374,057
Great108 Reviews
Earls Court London|5.15km from city center
The standard of the hotel is generally satisfactory. The room was rather small, but acceptable considering it's London, and everything else was very good.
There are also many shops nearby. If you come down and cross one block, you will face a road with many shops.
When entering the hotel, if you have luggage, do not come to the stone road in front. The road is very inconvenient to navigate. If you go around one block, you can use the asphalt road.
The subway station in front of the hotel is sometimes closed. Be aware of this.FromVND 4,668,089
Very Good237 Reviews
South Kensington London|4.34km from city center
Very satisfied. Every time I come to London, I stay for an extended period. The facilities are a bit old, but the price is right. Within 200 meters, there's a subway, Chinese fast food, and a bakery. The twin family room is spacious enough.FromVND 2,530,295
Great107 Reviews
Bank London|3.38km from city center
I have stayed here for a relaxed day. booked one of he cheapest rooms and had a great experience. The location is absolutely amazing. The room size was nice and everything was in good condition. The bed was very comfortable. The toilet and bathtub very clean. The staff was all very nice and helpful. Some of the highlights are obviously the pool, the jaccuzzi, sauna and steam room. Another great surprise it was that the coffees and teas in the room were complementary and that's something amazing for London, when they charge for everything. On top of it all, the price was very low, compared with a lot of other places in London that offer way less. I absolutely recommend you staying here.FromVND 3,281,000
Very Good413 Reviews
Waterloo London|1.02km from city center
Let's start with the positives: The hotel is located at the south end of Westminster Bridge, about a 6-7 minute walk from Waterloo Underground Station. From the room, you can see the London Eye and City Hall. This hotel is perfect for families, as its one-bedroom king suite is approximately 40 square meters and features a separate living/sleeping area. Upon entering, there's a sofa bed, and further inside is the king bed, with separate TVs in both areas. This setup can comfortably accommodate two adults and two children, with a bathroom in the middle. It feels spacious even with more people, and there's plenty of room for luggage. I was pleasantly surprised to find a microwave in the room.
Now, for the downsides: Housekeeping service is quite basic; daily cleaning only involves emptying trash, changing towels, and making the bed. They occasionally even forgot to clean. Before check-in, I received an email stating we could get a complimentary bottle of wine if we opted out of housekeeping, but no one offered it proactively when we checked in. The hotel's breakfast is extremely repetitive; not a single dish changes daily, making it very monotonous. It's the same baked beans, sausages, and roasted tomatoes every single day... After an 8-day stay, we were thoroughly fed up with it. However, if you don't eat breakfast there, your options outside are mostly just sandwiches. The hotel does not proactively provide toothpaste, toothbrushes, or slippers. You have to ask the front desk at check-in or call from your room to request them.FromVND 4,542,337
Hot spring
Very Good75 Reviews
King's Cross St. Pancras London|2.61km from city center
I chose this hotel because I had to catch an early train from King's Cross Station. It's really close to the station. The facilities are pretty standard, and there's no fridge in the room or complimentary bottled water. The shampoo/body wash is an all-in-one dispenser. I'd recommend it for anyone who prioritizes location.FromVND 3,585,855
Very Good78 Reviews
Sutton|0.19km from city center
The hotel was decent, but nothing special. I did appreciate the relaxation facilities they offer (pool, jacuzzi, sauna, hammam, gym), although the cleanliness was a bit lacking. That said, it was consistent with the hotel's very reasonable prices.
However, on our last day, we got the scare of our lives when the fire alarm went off at 1 AM. This was because a couple was smoking in the hallways, and there was utter chaos trying to get out.
All in all, I stayed for 11 nights, and it was alright.FromVND 1,893,911
Very Good80 Reviews
London|5.71km from city center
Visited this hotel the day before my birthday as a treat from my daughter. Room was nice and the beds were very comfy.
Found the staff very unfriendly especially the young lady on the food counter. Very blunt and no please or thank you when we ordered food. Also a few males walking around who were reception team and a manger, we smiled and said hello without any response, we were booked for 5 days and we would have left and gone elsewhere but it was non refundable.FromVND 2,530,295
Great91 Reviews
Greenwich|5.5km from city center
This hotel was lovely for a quick business trip! Rooms were comfortable and clean. The reception staff are so lovely and friendly and the location isn’t bad at all but it depends on where your business/planned activities are in London as it takes about an hour to get to central. Overall a great comfortable stay and will definitely visit again.FromVND 2,633,183
Very Good218 Reviews
Bayswater London|4.22km from city center
The hotel's biggest draw is the European-style decor in the lobby! The rooms are a bit small but very clean. When we first checked in, the sink in our room was a bit clogged. We contacted the front desk, and they responded promptly and moved us to a new room. It was Christmas time, and the lobby had lovely decorations like a Christmas tree, creating a wonderful atmosphere. They even provided refreshments, candies, and fresh apples, which was a nice touch! The English welcome pastries in the room were delicious. Plus, it's very close to the subway and super convenient for Hyde Park. Overall, a great stay!FromVND 2,259,736
Gym
Great101 Reviews
Bank London|1.85km from city center
A wonderful stay. The room was spacious, well equipped and perfectly clean. The lady who looked after our room couldn't do enough. Breakfast was delicious and set us up perfectly for a busy day of sight seeing. Reception, concierge, bar staff, spa staff and cleaners were all lovely. Location is good, on the edge of the super busy areas which was perfect. We got to see everything we wanted and more. 5 min walk from Blackfriers station. We really loved our stay. Thank you.FromVND 4,454,691
Very Good378 Reviews
Tower Hill London|3.52km from city center
The views from the Tower Bridge room were absolutely stunning; the hotel's overall ambiance exceeded my expectations. The cleanliness was decent, with no major oversights. The facilities were standard—not super modern, but perfectly adequate for basic needs. The staff were friendly, responsive, and patient when I had questions. It was a good experience for a solo traveler, especially recommended for anyone looking to enjoy the Tower Bridge scenery.FromVND 3,631,583
Great234 Reviews
South Kensington London|3.94km from city center
Absolutely loved it! The location is relatively quiet, surrounded by consulates and Hyde Park, making it very safe. Getting around is super convenient with both the subway and bus nearby. You've got the Natural History Museum and V&A close by, Imperial College is right across from the hotel, and the Royal College of Music and Royal Albert Hall are just a short walk away. It's so handy to catch a great concert and then stroll back to the hotel.FromVND 3,711,607
Very Good492 Reviews
Kensington London|4.66km from city center
Unbelievable location right next to High street Kensington and convenience of local stores. The rate is very modest for London in this locality. Facilities were good and service was excellent. Hard to ask any more from this hotel in this price pointFromVND 2,073,013
Very Good111 Reviews
Richmond upon Thames|1.15km from city center
The hotel is good. However, 2 children/2 adults cannot stay in one room. I booked 2 single rooms + multi-rooms. There is an additional charge for additional children. 10 pounds/day/person. There is no swimming pool, so if you want to swim with your child, book at the Harbor Hotel Richmond next door.FromVND 3,955,491
Swimming pool
Great129 Reviews
Greenwich|4.61km from city center
Highly, highly recommended. It's very convenient for catching shows. The hotel's front desk service was excellent, and the room was very spacious and spotlessly clean. The minibar area came equipped with a capsule coffee machine and a kettle, and the fridge was well-stocked with drinks and alcohol. The bathroom featured a separate shower and bathtub, and the facilities were superb. All toiletries were from Byredo, and the shampoo and conditioner were particularly good.
The room boasts floor-to-ceiling windows with stunning views of the beautiful River Thames. The scenery is absolutely breathtaking, day or night, and perfect for photos.
The hotel offers express check-out. The £100 deposit taken at check-in will be refunded to your card after any room charges have been deducted.FromVND 6,443,869
Amazing76 Reviews
Theatreland London|0.36km from city center
Toilet ambience too dark and shower stand design not so great water leaks out easilyFromVND 11,740,721
Very Good113 Reviews
London|3.31km from city center
This is by far one of the best hotels I’ve ever stayed at. The service from the staff was incredible, so thoughtful and kind. The room wasn’t ready for check in time unfortunately. The hotel is beautifully designed. I will definitely be back.FromVND 4,969,133
Amazing136 Reviews
London|0.39km from city center
Disappointed with the food
While Ramsey grill served an excellent a bennet soufflé the Beef Wellington was extremely average with a paste for what should have been a mushroom mixture
No Kippers on the breakfast menu a quintessential English breakfast was a disappointment too
Staff excellent especially the door men who are now celebrities and rightly soFromVND 18,855,270
Amazing136 Reviews
Marylebone London|1.64km from city center
I recently stayed at the hotel and the overall experience was great, especially Melissa and Angie at the front desk who made me feel at home with their professionalism and hospitality.
On the day of my arrival, I arrived late to the hotel, but Angie, the front desk clerk, still smiling, quickly helped me check in and patiently explained the hotel facilities to me. On the third day of my stay, Melissa, the front desk staff, patiently assisted me with the renewal procedures and kindly gave me an umbrella. Although the hotel was very busy at that time, I admired her affinity.
They maintained a high level of professionalism throughout their stay, from answering my questions to helping with restaurant reservations and transportation, and were meticulous, reflecting the excellent service standards of a five-star hotel. Of course, the location of the hotel is really good, the comfort of the room is also very good, every night I have a better sleep, especially the sound insulation, which makes me very comfortable.
My heartfelt thanks to the Langham Hotel, especially the wonderful staff at the front desk, for making my trip even more perfect. I would definitely visit again and highly recommend it to other travelers! 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟FromVND 13,184,971
Breakfast
Great112 Reviews
Theatreland London|0.92km from city center
I stayed here once during Christmas. This time my daughter’s summer camp was in London and I stayed at this hotel again. From Heathrow Airport, take the Queen’s Line to Tottenham Court Road Station and choose the Dean Street exit. Turn right and walk about 40 meters to the hotel. Oxford Street is on the left when you go out of the hotel. There is China Town and many restaurants and pubs for dining. It is very convenient. There is a small supermarket at the door to save money and buy food to heat back to the hotel. In short, it is worth recommending!FromVND 4,710,007
Very Good120 Reviews
Theatreland London|0.76km from city center
As a solo traveler, I had such a wonderful stay at Mimi’s. The staff were incredibly helpful, kind and friendly. It was a tiny room but worked for one person with all the needed items, including a hair dryer and the life saving air conditioner. They also offer £10 charge to store luggage which was nice for walking around before leaving the area. The lobby is also quite lovely and relaxing. Would absolutely stay here again, a wonderful spot in the center of theatres and restaurants.FromVND 2,930,417
Very Good139 Reviews
Ealing|3.81km from city center
This hotel is lovely! It’s near the tube station. The rooms are neat and tidy which caught me by surprise and the breakfast is delicious! The staff is super friendly and I had some chats with them. All in all a great experience; the other reviews on here made that clear.FromVND 2,697,965
Very Good47 Reviews
Heathrow Hounslow|1km from city center
Location is near walking distance to Hounslow Central tube station. Many outlets for eating and groceries shop , close to Hounslow high street. The whole guest house is quite clean , spacious , modernised and eye catching decorations. I booked for the cheapest a small single room with shared bathroom, even that the room has many things to offer - a small fridge with a free water bottle, a kettle with tea/ coffee and a biscuit warmly welcome showing hospitality, a safe , a hairdryer , hangers and wardrobe, a double fan ! Bedside switch and both usb and sockets close to bed . Bed is comfy and nice pillows .A flat TV ( sometimes signals are not very good but at least easy to browse and watch )and free WiFi . There is a bigger fridge and a microwave and sitting area downstairs . There is a free car parking which is really a bonus for us and also quite spacious and for at least 12-14 cars and has some shades from trees. The reception and staff are very helpful and kind .I have appointment at 10 in the downtown travel with underground over 1 hr + walking time 15-20 mins and unfortunately there were triple booked at 10 am and a long wait made me come back late by 12:25 but kindly allow to keep my car till I come. All in all, I booked another date in November to come back .FromVND 1,234,662
Great40 Reviews
St James London|0.28km from city center
This hotel made it impossible for me to choose any other hotel.I really love this oneFromVND 9,686,762
FAQs about UK Arrival Card
Do I need to fill out a form to enter the UK?
No, paper arrival cards are no longer used. Visa-exempt visitors need a UK ETA, while visa-required travelers need an eVisa.What date does ETIAS start for the UK?
ETIAS is an EU system and does not apply to the UK; it will launch for the EU in Q4 2026.Do I need an ETA to enter the UK?
Yes, a UK ETA is mandatory for 85 visa-exempt nations starting 25 February 2026 (UK and Irish citizens are exempt).What are the new entry requirements for the UK in 2026?
The key new requirement is the UK ETA for visa-exempt travelers, alongside a valid passport and proof of sufficient funds.What happens if I travel to the UK without an ETA?
After 25 February 2026, carriers will deny boarding, and you may be refused entry by UK border force.How do I get an ETA for the UK?
Apply online through the official UK government portal, pay a £16 fee, and receive digital approval for your ETA.Do European citizens need an ETA to enter the UK?
Yes, EU citizens are part of the visa-exempt group and will need a UK ETA from 25 February 2026.