As of February 25, 2026, a significant change in entry requirements has been implemented for Italians and other European Union citizens wishing to visit the UK. They will now be required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) prior to their trip, a move aimed at tightening border control post-Brexit. The ETA, similar to the American ESTA, will be mandatory for tourists and travelers planning to stay in the UK for up to six months.

This new regulation marks a continued shift in the relationship between the UK and EU nations following Brexit, as the UK government seeks to assert more control over its borders and migration policies. The introduction of the ETA is part of a broader strategy that reflects the UK's post-Brexit vision, affecting not only European travelers but also signaling a new era of travel regulations that could have implications for tourism and bilateral relations.

Travelers are advised to plan ahead and apply for their ETA well before their intended travel dates to avoid any disruptions. The implementation of this authorization system could have a lasting impact on travel dynamics, as well as on the economic aspects tied to tourism from Europe, an essential market for the UK.