Entry to the UK only with an eVisa or electronic travel authorisation

As of 25 February 2026, the United Kingdom strictly applies the requirement that all visitors from countries whose nationals do not need a visa must hold an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) in order to travel to the country, the Bulgarian Ministry of Foreign Affairs warns.

Bulgarian citizens wishing to travel to the United Kingdom for short stays of up to 6 months for tourism, private visits, business trips, or short-term study must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) in advance. The ETA application must be submitted at least three days before travel. The procedure and application form are published at https://www.gov.uk/eta/apply.

The issued authorisation is valid for 2 years or until the holder’s passport expires (whichever comes first). Airlines have been instructed not to board passengers on flights to the United Kingdom without a valid ETA.

This policy directly affects EU citizens (including Bulgarian nationals) with status under the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS), as carriers must ensure that passengers who do not hold an ETA have a valid travel authorisation in the form of an electronic visa (eVisa) showing temporary or settled status, or another type of permission or exemption from immigration control. Lack of the required authorisation or exemption from immigration control will result in denial of boarding.

Bulgarian citizens with pre-settled or settled status in the United Kingdom who have been issued a new passport or identity document must immediately update their digital immigration profile (UK Visas and Immigration Account) with the details of the new document to avoid travel delays: https://www.gov.uk/evisa/update-ukvi-account.

Bulgarian citizens with dual nationality (Bulgarian and British/Irish) cannot obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) and must travel with a valid British/Irish passport or with a Certificate of Entitlement to the Right of Abode placed in their foreign passport. Failure to comply with this requirement may result in refusal of boarding or delays.

Edited by Ivo Ivanov