Arriving in London in 2026: UK ETA, Passport Control and Meeting Your Driver
If you are flying into Heathrow, Gatwick or any other UK airport this year, there is one thing to sort out before you leave home: for many nationalities, entry now depends on an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). Here is what you need to know, from booking the flight to meeting your driver in arrivals.
Based on GOV.UK guidance checked on 14 October 2026. Entry rules can change; always check GOV.UK for your nationality before you travel.
Do you need a UK ETA?
According to GOV.UK, you usually need an ETA rather than a visa if you are from Europe, the USA, Australia, Canada or certain other countries. British and Irish citizens do not need one. Every traveller needs their own ETA – including babies and children. The quickest way to check your own case is the visa checker on GOV.UK.
How much does it cost and how long does it last?
An ETA costs £20. It lets you travel to the UK for visits of up to six months. Apply on GOV.UK or through the official UK ETA app; other websites may charge more, and GOV.UK advises avoiding sites that imitate government services. An ETA does not guarantee entry – the Border Force officer or eGate still checks you on arrival.
Changing planes in the UK
If you pass through UK border control before your onward flight – for example on separate tickets, or to leave the airport during a layover – you need an ETA. If you stay airside on a connecting ticket, check the current rules with your airline.
Passport control: eGates or the desk
You can normally use the automatic eGates if your passport has the biometric chip symbol, you are 8 or older and at least 120 cm tall, and you are British or Irish, or a national of the EU, the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein with a valid ETA, eVisa or exemption. Children aged 8 to 17 must be with an adult. Families with younger children go to the staffed desks.
Heathrow has also started contactless eGates that compare your face without placing your passport on the reader. From October 2026 they are open to British citizens first, with other nationalities expected to follow.
How long does it take after landing?
On a quiet day you can be through passport control and baggage reclaim in 30 to 45 minutes. At busy times, or if several long-haul flights land together, it can take an hour or more. That is why our drivers track your flight and the first 60 minutes after landing are free.
Meeting your driver
- Your driver waits in the arrivals hall with your name on a sign.
- The driver’s details and contact number are in your confirmation e-mail and in My Bookings.
- If passport control is slow, send a message – the driver can see your flight landed and will wait.
Checklist before you fly
- ETA approved for every traveller (or the right visa).
- Passport valid for your whole stay.
- Flight number added to your transfer booking.
- Mobile number on the booking that will work in the UK.
Get your fixed price – enter your pickup, destination, date and time and every vehicle is priced in seconds. The price you see is the price you pay.
See also: how airport meet and greet works, Heathrow transfers and Gatwick transfers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who needs a UK ETA in 2026?
Usually visitors from Europe, the USA, Australia, Canada and certain other countries who do not need a visa. British and Irish citizens do not need one. Check your nationality on GOV.UK.
How much is a UK ETA?
£20 per person, including children. Apply on GOV.UK or the official UK ETA app.
Can I use the eGates at Heathrow with an ETA?
Usually yes, if you are a national of an eligible country such as an EU country, the USA or Canada, have a biometric passport and a valid ETA, and are 8 or older.
How long does passport control take at Heathrow?
Often 30 to 45 minutes including baggage, and an hour or more at busy times. Our drivers wait and the first 60 minutes after landing are free.
