Commonwealth Games 2026 Travel Planning: UK ETA Rules for Teams and Fans

As preparations accelerate for the Commonwealth Games 2026 in Glasgow, Scotland (23 July to 2 August), immigration compliance is emerging as a key risk for athletes, their support teams and associated travellers.  

The UK’s immigration framework has changed significantly in recent years, with the phased introduction of the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme and tighter rules affecting dual British and Irish nationals.  

As a result, even individuals travelling for short-term, non-work purposes may now need advance permission before boarding a flight, even where they previously travelled to the UK without restriction. 

This is especially important given that the Games will coincide with peak summer travel, placing additional pressure on airlines and UK border systems. For large delegations travelling together, even a single missing ETA or visa could disrupt travel plans, delay key individuals and create logistical challenges for the wider team. 

What Is the UK ETA Scheme? 

The UK ETA is a digital pre-travel authorisation, not a visa. It applies to individuals who previously could travel to the UK without obtaining prior immigration permission. 

• It applies to non-visa nationals, such as citizens of Australia, Canada and New Zealand 

• It links electronically to a traveller’s passport 

• It allows multiple entries during its validity period, usually two years 

• It does not grant permission to work or undertake paid activities in the UK 

• Airlines must verify that passengers hold a valid ETA or visa before to boarding 

Although the ETA scheme is intended to streamline border security, it introduces an additional compliance step, which is particularly relevant for large-scale events like the Commonwealth Games. Whilst most ETAs are processed quickly, delays can occur due to security flags, incomplete applications or mismatches in biographical data. This makes early application essential. 

Who Needs a UK ETA for the Commonwealth Games? 

Spectators and commercial visitors travelling to attend the Games from visa-exempt countries will require an ETA to enter the UK. Visa nationals, by contrast, must apply for entry clearance as a visitor before travelling to the UK.  

Most athletes and their immediate support teams from non-visa national countries can enter the UK as visitors with an ETA, provided they donot undertake prohibited activities. A visa national sportsperson, however, will need to apply for a specific Sports Visit visa before travelling to the UK.  

Participation in sporting events is generally permitted, subject to certain restrictions. A sportsperson can travel to the UK to carry out an activity directly relating to their profession, where they have been invited by a UK sports organisation, agent or broadcaster. Personal or technical staff travelling with the sports player may support permitted activities, such as taking part in a sports tournament or event or making personal appearances and taking part in promotional activities. 

Travellers with a history of UK immigration issues, such as previous refusals or overstays, may face delays or even refusals when applying for an ETA or a visitor visa. 

Practical Steps to Take Before Travel 

For teams and organisations managing large groups, we would recommend ensuring the following practical steps are taken: 

• Maintaining a centralised travel compliance tracker to monitor ETA / visa status across all delegation members 

• Ensuring family members and independent travellers associated with athletes receive clear guidance 

• Building in contingency planning for delayed or refused applications 

 Dual British Nationals and ETA Implications 

Dual British and Irish nationals face one of the most misunderstood risks under the UK’s ETA scheme, with potential consequences at the point of boarding. Although British and Irish citizens are exempt from the ETA requirement, dual nationals cannot apply for an ETA, even if their other nationality would normally require one.  

From February 2026, these individuals generally will not be permitted to travel to the UK using their non-British passport, a valid Irish passport or another valid passport endorsed with a certificate of entitlement to the right of abode in the UK.  

A temporary concession, introduced earlier this year, may allow travel using an expired UK passport, issued from 1989 onwards, alongside a valid foreign passport. However, this is at each airline’s discretion, creating uncertainty and risk. 

Some dual nationals may not hold a current British / Irish passport, particularly if they have lived abroad for extended periods or if they have recently acquired nationality. Given potentially lengthy processing times for first-time or renewal passport applications, especially during peak demand, early action is critical.  

Organisations managing Commonwealth Games delegation should conduct an early audit of athletes and staff to identify dual nationals and assess whether individuals require passport renewals or alternative documentation. 

Conclusion: Early Preparation Is the Competitive Advantage 

The introduction of the ETA scheme marks a significant shift in mindset for travellers who previously experienced minimal immigration friction when entering the UK. For the Commonwealth Games 2026, this creates new compliance risks, particularly for large delegations and dual nationals.  

With immigration checks now enforced before travel, missing documentation can disrupt journeys long before arrival in the UK. Submitting applications early, maintaining centralised oversight and identifying higher-risk travellers. 

Submitting necessary applications early and centralised oversight will be key to ensuring smooth journeys into the UK. 

Need to Know More?   

For questions about UK ETA requirements, dual nationality or Games‑related travel planning, please reach out to Senior Manager Alice Spaull at [email protected] and Associate Stephanie Fitton at [email protected]. 

This blog was published on 27 May, 2026 and reflects information available at that time. Updates may occur as policies evolve. To stay informed on the latest immigration news and analysis, please subscribe to our alerts and follow Fragomen on  LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram.