As part of the Common Travel Area (CTA)—which includes the UK, Republic of Ireland, Isle of Man, and Guernsey—the Crown Dependencies apply border controls aligned with UK standards. From February 2026, Jersey and other Crown Dependencies will also be introducing the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system in line with the UK to enhance CTA security. The requirement will now require travellers to hold an ETA before making a direct visits to one of these locations.
Key points to note
- The Crown Dependencies will be introducing ETAs for travel to the islands from February 2026
- ETA is not a visa, but a digital travel clearance for visa-exempt nationals visiting or transiting the Crown Dependencies or the UK.
- Travellers transiting to the Crown Dependencies through the UK will already need to obtain an ETA prior to travel.
- Existing visa holders and those exempt from immigration control do not need an ETA.
- The cost on an ETA is £16, valid for multiple trips of up to six months each over two years or until passport expiry.
- Each of the territories will be responsible for administering their ETA schemes. ETA applications will be assessed by the jurisdiction that the visitor puts on their application as their first port of entry into the CTA.
- Arrival remains subject to border checks; ETA does not guarantee entry.
- Those needing to apply can do so online at GOV.UK, on the ‘UK ETA’ app, or use our services for UK ETA via CIBTvisas.
- Those that are refused an ETA can still apply for a visit visa.
What does this mean for my business?
Now is an ideal time to ensure that your business is ready for the extension of the ETA scheme to the British Crown Dependencies. Helping your travellers understand when an ETA is required and by whom, having a checklist and a clear rule that ETAs are in place before flights are booked will help ensure your travellers will be all set when the time comes.
If you’re unsure if your travellers will need ETAs to visit the islands or for more information on how to apply for an ETA, please contact us directly via your dedicated account manager / reach out to [email protected] for tailored advice.
This immigration update is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for legal or scenario-specific advice. Furthermore, it is important to note that immigration announcements are subject to sudden and unexpected changes. Readers are encouraged to reach out to Newland Chase for any case- or company-specific assessments.
