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The UK is expanding the ETA system for visa-free countries starting in 2026 under the principle of “no permission, no travel.” However, Indonesia is not a visa-free country for the UK, so Indonesian citizens must still apply for a Standard Visitor Visa and are not directly affected by the ETA policy.
The United Kingdom is implementing significant changes to its border entry system through the introduction of the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). This policy is being rolled out gradually and will become stricter starting in 2026.
These changes raise an important question for Indonesian travelers: do Indonesian citizens now need to apply for an ETA to enter the UK?
The short answer is no. However, understanding this policy shift is still important because it affects how many international travelers enter the UK.
The UK government, through the UK Home Office, announced the expansion of the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system as part of its digital border reform.
According to the official factsheet released in February 2026, starting 25 February 2026, travelers from countries that previously enjoyed visa-free entry must have an approved ETA before traveling to the UK, unless they already hold a valid visa or residence permit. The policy follows the principle of “no permission, no travel” meaning that passengers without valid travel authorization will not be allowed to depart for the UK.
This information was also reported by BBC News, which explained that airlines and transport operators will be required to verify travel authorization before departure.
ETA is a pre-departure electronic travel authorization that applies to countries that have historically been able to enter the UK without a visa for short visits, such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and most European Union countries. Beginning 25 February 2026, ETA will become a mandatory requirement for citizens of those countries unless they already hold a visa or a valid residence permit.
According to the UK Home Office, ETA is required for travelers who can enter the UK without a visa. However, ETA is not a visa and does not guarantee entry. The final decision always remains with immigration officers upon arrival. ETA only provides pre-travel authorization to board transportation to the UK.
Therefore, this change mainly alters the entry procedure for visa-free countries, rather than for all international travelers.
This is where the key distinction lies.
Indonesia is not a visa-free country for the United Kingdom. For many years, Indonesian passport holders have been required to apply for a Standard Visitor Visa before traveling to the UK for tourism, short business trips, or family visits.
This means:
Indonesian citizens must still obtain a regular visa.
Indonesian citizens cannot use ETA as a substitute for a visa.
The 2026 ETA expansion does not change the visa requirement for Indonesian passport holders.
In other words, the ETA system represents a major change for visa-free countries, but it does not alter the basic entry procedure for Indonesian citizens.
According to official data from Statistics Indonesia (Badan Pusat Statistik) in 2023, the number of outbound trips by Indonesian travelers has shown a significant recovery compared to the pandemic period, including travel to European destinations.
In addition, the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy noted in its 2023 tourism sector performance report that long-haul travel interest has been increasing. This includes trips to the United Kingdom for purposes such as cultural tourism, education, and family visits.
This increase in mobility indicates that more Indonesian travelers need to understand entry permit requirements accurately. Clear information is essential so that you do not misunderstand the visa or ETA procedures when planning a trip to the UK.
According to the official explanation from the UK Home Office, the ETA system is designed to:
Strengthen border security
Conduct risk screening before departure
Digitize the entry authorization system
Align with travel authorization systems used by countries such as the United States and Canada
ETA is not a visa and does not guarantee entry. It is simply a travel authorization that is digitally linked to a passport.
Aspect |
UK ETA |
Standard Visitor Visa |
|---|---|---|
Applies To |
Visa-free countries |
Countries that require visas |
Relevant for Indonesian Citizens |
No |
Yes |
Process |
Short online application |
Full application + biometrics |
Automatic Right of Entry |
No |
No |
Disclaimer: The information in this table is for general reference only. Features, timelines, and procedures may vary depending on each insurance provider’s policies and the type of policy. Always verify details directly with your provider.
When discussing ETA and UK visas, several misconceptions still circulate. Here are some mistakes you should avoid:
Assuming all travelers only need an ETA
This is incorrect. ETA only applies to citizens of countries that are included in the UK’s visa-free list. If your country is not included, a visa is still required.
Thinking ETA replaces visas for all countries
ETA is not a universal visa replacement. For Indonesian citizens and many other nationalities, applying for a visa remains mandatory before departure.
Not checking the latest official sources
Immigration policies can change at any time. Always check the latest information directly from official UK government websites or authorized visa application centers before purchasing tickets or planning your trip.
Before departure, ensure that all your travel documents and protections are complete. Use the following checklist as a practical guide:
Apply for a Standard Visitor Visa early
Submit your visa application well before your departure date to avoid delays in the processing timeline.
Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months
Some airlines and immigration authorities require passports to remain valid well beyond the return date.
Prepare proof of sufficient funds
Include bank statements or other financial documents that demonstrate your ability to cover travel expenses during your stay in the UK.
Prepare a clear travel itinerary
Have your itinerary ready, along with accommodation reservations and return flight tickets as part of your supporting documents.
Keep copies of important documents
Store both digital and printed copies of your passport, visa, tickets, and supporting documents in case of loss or additional inspections.
Ensure your travel insurance is active during your stay
Although travel insurance is not always mandatory as it is for Schengen visas, it remains important to protect you from medical risks, cancellations, or travel disruptions.
Although ETA does not apply to Indonesian citizens and you still need a visa, one aspect that is often overlooked is financial protection during travel. The United Kingdom has a strong healthcare system, but medical costs for international visitors can be significant because they are not covered by the National Health Service (NHS) for short-term visitors.
In addition to health-related risks, long-haul travel such as routes between Indonesia and the UK carries operational risks. Flights with long durations and transit connections increase the likelihood of delays, cancellations, or baggage-related issues.
Some key risks you should consider include:
High emergency medical costs for consultations, hospitalization, or unexpected medical treatment
Long-haul flight delays or cancellations that may result in additional accommodation expenses
Lost or damaged baggage during international transit
Travel disruptions caused by weather conditions or airline operational issues
Without protection, all of these costs become your personal responsibility.
Travel protection is not only relevant when you are already abroad. Its value becomes visible from the planning stage until after you return home.
Below is an overview of its role throughout each phase of a journey:
Travel Stage |
Potential Risk |
Role of Travel Insurance |
|---|---|---|
Planning Stage |
Cancellation due to personal emergencies |
Helps minimize financial losses according to policy terms |
Before Departure |
Changes in flight schedules |
Provides certain compensation for travel disruptions |
During the UK Trip |
Sudden illness or accidents |
Covers emergency medical expenses within policy limits |
International Transit |
Lost or delayed baggage |
Provides benefits for baggage delay or loss |
After Returning Home |
Claims for incidents during travel |
Claim submission process according to procedures and supporting documents |
Disclaimer: The information in this table is provided for general reference purposes only. Features, timelines, and procedures may vary depending on each insurance provider’s policies and the type of policy. Always verify details directly with your provider.
With the right protection approach, you not only fulfill the administrative aspects of travel but also prepare for realistic financial risks associated with long-distance international journeys.
A well-prepared trip is not only about tickets and visas, but also about readiness to handle unexpected situations.
International travel such as a trip to the United Kingdom requires protection that not only supports administrative requirements but also addresses real risks during the journey. Travel insurance from Oona is designed to provide overseas travel protection according to policy terms, including emergency medical coverage and travel disruption benefits.
Several aspects you may consider include:
Coverage relevant for international travel
Protection includes emergency medical risks as well as benefits related to travel disruptions such as delays or baggage issues, according to the applicable policy details.
Efficient digital purchase process
Policy application and issuance are completed online, allowing you to obtain travel protection without in-person procedures.
Transparent benefit information
Coverage details, coverage limits, and policy terms are explained clearly so that you can understand the protection before making a decision.
Flexible travel duration options
Protection options can be adjusted to match the length of your trip, whether for short visits or journeys that include multiple destinations.
Before planning your trip to the United Kingdom, make sure your protection is prepared thoroughly. By understanding the risks and selecting appropriate protection, you can travel with stronger financial preparedness.
To see the available protection options, you can review the details on Oona’s official page and adjust them to your travel plans.
The United Kingdom is indeed introducing significant changes to its entry authorization system through the expansion of the ETA scheme, which is planned to apply more broadly starting in 2026. However, this policy is primarily intended for countries that previously benefited from visa-free entry.
Indonesia remains classified as a country whose citizens must apply for a visa to enter the United Kingdom. This means Indonesian citizens are not directly affected by the ETA implementation and must still apply for a Standard Visitor Visa before departure.
Understanding the difference between ETA and a visitor visa helps you avoid administrative mistakes, prevent entry refusals, and plan your trip with greater confidence and clarity.
