From 23 April 2026, theElectronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for the UK will become mandatory for non-visa national nationals travelling directly to the islands of Guernsey and Jersey. However, an exception is made for nationals coming from the "Common Travel Area" (United Kingdom, Isle of Man and Channel Islands) or Ireland.
The two local governments have in fact adopted UK rules and regulations to permit the introduction of the ETA for visitors, which will be compulsory for entering the UK from March 2025.
Travellers can apply for their ETA from 9 April 2026. This authorisation will be required for all modes of transport, including regular arrivals by air or sea, private planes and pleasure boats.
However, the introduction of the ETA will not affect the maintenance of a special regime for French nationals. The latter will be able to continue to use a French identity card ONLY for day trips to the Bailiwick of Guernsey and the States of Jersey, via regular ferry services.
However, any commercial shipping company operating under this arrangement must receive authorisation from the customs and immigration services of both governments and have signed a memorandum of understanding to be permitted to embark French nationals holding an identity card.
The ETA currently costs £16 and is valid for two years from the date of issue, or until the holder's passport expires, whichever comes first. It allows for multiple entries and stays of up to six months. Every traveller requires an ETA, including children. The cost of the ETA is expected to increase to £20 in the near future.
