UK Visa Update -Introduction of eVisa & ETA Explained For Kenyans (2026)

Effective 25 February 2026, the United Kingdom has introduced major changes to its immigration and travel systems. These updates form part of the UK government’s transition to a fully digital immigration framework, affecting how visas are issued and how Kenyan travellers are cleared to enter the UK.

At Greentod Visas & Travel Solutions, we explain what these changes mean for travellers, visa applicants, and businesses.

The UK’s Transition to Digital eVisas

From 25 February 2026, the UK no longer issues physical visa stickers (vignettes) in passports for most visitor visas and selected other visa categories.

Instead, successful applicants now receive a digital eVisa, which is stored electronically, linked directly to the applicant’s passport, and accessible via a UK Visas & Immigration (UKVI) online account.

What this means for applicants:

• • Applicants do not need to leave their passport at the visa application centre during processing

• • Immigration status is verified electronically by airlines and UK border authorities

• • Existing physical visas remain valid until their expiry date

• • New applicants, including those applying from Kenya and the wider region, automatically receive an eVisa instead of a passport vignette

UKVI has confirmed that this change does not affect visa conditions, length of stay, or immigration rights.

Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA): Now Mandatory

Alongside the eVisa rollout, the UK has fully implemented the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system.

An ETA is a digital pre-travel authorisation required for certain travellers entering the UK without a visa for short stays. It is not a visa, but permission to travel.

Who needs an ETA:

• • Nationals of visa-exempt countries such as the United States, Canada, and most European countries. Check full list here.

• • Travellers visiting the UK for tourism, business, or short stays

• • ETA is not required for travellers who already hold a valid UK visa

• • British and Irish citizens are exempt

ETA cost and validity:

• • Approximate fee of £16

• • Valid for multiple journeys over two years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first

Travellers without a valid ETA may be refused boarding.

Mandatory Digital Travel Checks Before Boarding

From 25 February 2026, all transport carriers, including airlines, ferries, and rail operators, must electronically verify a traveller’s eVisa or ETA before allowing boarding.

If no valid digital immigration permission is found, the traveller may be denied boarding even if they hold a valid passport.

Important Compliance Advice for Travellers

To avoid delays or denied boarding, travellers are advised to:

• • Ensure their eVisa or ETA is linked to the passport they intend to travel with

• • Apply for an ETA at least three working days before departure

• • Keep access to their UKVI online account

• • Dual nationals should travel using their British passport where applicable

The UK’s Ongoing Digital Immigration Strategy

The UK’s move toward a fully digital immigration system has been introduced in phases. eVisas began replacing physical visa stickers for selected categories as early as July 2025. Since 30 October 2025, many work, study, and family visa applicants no longer receive physical vignettes.

The digital system improves security, reduces the risk of document loss, and enables faster verification by border authorities, employers, and landlords. Authorities have confirmed that these changes do not alter immigration rights or conditions of stay.

Contact Greentod Visa & Travel Solutions for Help Creating Your eVisa

Navigating UK immigration changes can be complex. Greentod Visa Solutions provides expert guidance on UK visitor visa applications, eVisa requirements, ETA eligibility, and pre-travel compliance checks.