UK Entry Requirements - ETA
There have been important recent changes to the rules for entering the United Kingdom that may affect members of your school group.
This page covers the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) requirement, new rules for dual British or Irish nationals, and our recommendations on names lists.
TCBC strongly advises that you begin all necessary checks well in advance of your departure date. Starting early will help ensure your documentation is in order and reduce the risk of delays or disruption to your journey.
Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)
An ETA is now mandatory for all travellers who do not hold a UK or Irish passport and who wish to enter the United Kingdom. This includes many nationalities who were previously able to enter the UK without any form of pre-travel authorisation.
The ETA requirement applies to both adults and children. Travellers who do not hold a valid ETA will not be permitted to travel, and checks are carried out prior to departure - not on arrival.
Who is exempt?
Individuals who have permission to live, work or study in the UK are exempt from the ETA requirement. However, they will need to carry appropriate supporting documentation confirming their status.
What this means for school groups
If your group includes students or staff who are not UK or Irish passport holders, you will need to check whether an ETA is required well in advance of travel. This applies equally to international students at UK schools travelling on a TCBC trip.
For full eligibility details and to apply, visit
New Rules for Dual British or Irish Nationals
Since 25 February 2026, stricter rules apply to dual British or Irish nationals when entering the United Kingdom. These travellers must carry the correct travel document before departing - the change in rules applies at the point of travel, not on arrival.
Dual nationals must present one of the following:
- A valid British passport
- A valid Irish passport
- A non-UK passport accompanied by a Certificate of Entitlement to the Right of Abode in the UK
Important: Dual nationals cannot apply for an ETA using a second (non-British, non-Irish) passport as a workaround. They must carry the appropriate proof of citizenship listed above.
This is particularly relevant for school groups that include students who hold dual nationality - for example, students with British and another nationality whose families may not be aware of the change.
For full details, visit the UK Government guidance on https://www.gov.uk/eta
Name Lists
TCBC School Tours recommends that all schools carry a complete names list of all travellers - both students and staff - on the school's headed paper.
The list should include:
- First name and surname
- Date of birth
- Confirmation that all those named are resident in the UK
The list should be signed and stamped by the Head of the school. TCBC recommends carrying multiple copies.
Last updated: February 2026
