Starting Feb 25, 2026, Malaysians can no longer enter the UK without advance travel permission, even if they don’t need a visa.
ETA will be required for Malaysians
The UK government has announced that travellers from 85 visa-free countries, including Malaysia, must apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before flying in.
This applies to all short-term visitors, even if you’re just transiting through a UK airport.
What is ETA?
ETA is a new digital travel system introduced by the UK to improve border security and speed up immigration checks.
It has been in place since October 2023, but starting February 2026, it will be strictly enforced for all eligible travellers.
How to apply for ETA?
You can apply through the UK ETA mobile app, and it costs £16 (around RM90).
According to the UK government, most people will get approval within minutes, but it’s safer to apply at least 3 days before your trip, just in case more checks are needed.
British and Irish citizens are exempt, including those with dual citizenship.
“If you’re a dual citizen, make sure to use your British passport or have proof of UK citizenship to avoid issues at the airport,”it wrote.
Why is this being done?
According to the UK Home Office, this change is part of a plan to create a fully digital and contactless immigration system in the future.
The system also gives UK authorities more control over who enters the country.
