The innovative technology is being installed in 150 stores by April, following successful trials showing shorter queues and smoother transactions. Whether you prefer a friendly cashier or want a quick self-service checkout, Co-op is aiming to give you both options instantly.

The digital screens also highlight member deals, promotions, and savings, making it easier than ever to see discounts as you shop. In future they will also offer parcel collection and other features.

What are Co-op’s new flexi checkouts?

During quieter periods, staff can operate the tills as normal. But at peak times, the same checkout can quickly transition into self-service mode – helping to speed up transactions and cut waiting times.

The retailer says the rollout will reach 150 stores by April, following successful trials.

The dual digital screens:

• Display live price savings, deals and promotions
• Highlight membership benefits and offers
• Allow traditional cashier service for kiosk-only purchases
• Retain face-to-face service for shoppers who prefer assisted checkout

The technology also includes future capabilities, such as supporting parcel collection services.

The checkouts are supplied by Diebold Nixdorf, with bespoke software developed in-house by Co-op’s technology team.

Recommended reading:

Why Co-op is changing its tills

David Tyas, Co-op’s Head of Operations Support Centre and Innovation, said the move supports the retailer’s continued investment in high streets and local communities.

He explained that while many customers value interaction with store colleagues, others prioritise speed and convenience — particularly in smaller convenience locations.

The new hybrid model aims to balance both preferences without removing staffed checkout options.

18 new stores confirmed for 2026

The announcement comes shortly after Co-op confirmed 18 stores will open in the first quarter of 2026, including brand-new locations and stores reopening after significant refurbishment.

The retailer, which has operated for more than 180 years, says it remains committed to investing in its physical store estate across UK high streets.

A number of electronic devices have been sent away for forensic analysis after the man was arrested.

A man allegedly raped his daughters in front of his 10-year-old son. The 46-year-old male was arrested on Friday in Cascavel, in Paraná, southern Brazil. Civil Police of Paraná (PCPR) have accused him of repeatedly raping the two young girls, aged seven and eight, while they stayed with him at his home between January 2025 and January 2026.

Cops said some of these alleged rapes were witness by the girls’ older brother. Authorities citing evidence gathered before the trial phase led to the dad being placed in court-ordered pretrial detention, reports the Mirror.

Local media reported, during the alleged abuser’s arrest, a search and seizure warrant was executed at his home to recover electronic devices. These items will be submitted for forensic analysis, with the man sent to prison, where he remains “at the disposal of the Justice system”.

Reports added the official police probe has been concluded, and the results will be sent onwards to the Public Prosecutor’s Office. The allegations against the man come just days after another 41-year-old was imprisoned for 29 years after being found guilty of raping his own daughter.

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He was arrested by civil police in rural Guaraqueçaba, also in Paraná, on January 14 during an operation carried out in public. Bruno Silva Rocha, the local chief of police, said the beast was sentenced to 29 years and two months behind bars for abusing the girl, whose details have not been disclosed.

He added cops executed an arrest warrant in the town of Potinga, where the man is believed to have lived, and taken onwards to the Antonina Civil Police Station. The predator was transferred to the Paranaguá Public Jail immediately following his arrest, and he remains there following his conviction earlier this month.

Also on the 14th, another man, aged 23, was arrested on charges of rape of a vulnerable person and dissemination of child abuse imagery. Officers arrested the man and reportedly solved the case “in less than 24 hours after the facts came to light”, local media reported, after the victim’s mum filed a police report.

She reportedly went to a police station to complain intimate videos of her daughter, aged 13, were circulating on social media. Police reportedly conducted swift investigations and later identified the teen’s ex-boyfriend as a suspect, with the department alleging he released photos and videos of his young victim as a form of revenge.

Cops went on to allege the 23-year-old had confessed, and his mobile phone was seized ahead of being passed along to forensics teams for analysis.

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Expletives were heard during the ceremony, including when Michael B Jordan and Delroy Lindo were presenting an award.

Alan Cumming explained the reason behind the shouting heard during the 79th British Academy Film Awards, clarifying a moment of confusion for both the live audience and viewers at home. The host addressed attendees, asking for understanding after audience member John Davidson experienced tics during the ceremony.

Davidson, the inspiration behind the Bafta-nominated film I Swear, was diagnosed with Tourette syndrome at 25 but first noticed symptoms at 12, which include involuntary outbursts, tics and swearing. During the event, expletives such as “shut the f**k up” and “f**k you” were audible, including during BAFTA chair Sara Putt’s speech and when the directors of Arco accepted the award for Best Children’s and Family Film, Mirror reports.

Presenter Michael B Jordan appeared briefly taken aback when an involuntary slur occurred while he was on stage with Sinners co-star Delroy Lindo. Jordan began, “Good evening. Delroy and I are delighted to be presenting the first BAFTA of the night for a vital part of movie making,” before pausing to compose himself.

Lindo then continued, “We’re here to celebrate the artists who expand what’s possible on screen.” Later, Cumming addressed the situation directly, telling the audience: “You may have noticed some strong language in the background.

“This can be part of how Tourette’s syndrome shows up for some people as the film explores that experience. Thanks for your understanding and helping create a respectful space for everyone.”

The comments were no longer heard after Davidson appeared to leave the room. A source previously confirmed to Variety he was an invited guest and would not be required to leave the ceremony.

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Viewers at home also heard the outbursts during the BBC One and BBC iPlayer broadcast. One user on X, formerly known as Twitter, said, “Credit to Alan Cumming for addressing it calmly and reminding the audience of the reality behind the condition.

“A difficult moment, but important context. Tourette’s can include involuntary vocal tics that are completely out of a person’s control.”

Another added: “Shows how live events can include unexpected moments, but also opportunities for understanding and education.” Others expressed initial confusion, asking, “Who keeps shouting in the audience at the #Baftas?” and “Is someone that keeps shouting out? #BAFTAs.”

Before the ceremony, the floor manager introduced Davidson, explaining: “I’d like to welcome John Davidson MBE from one of our nominated films I Swear. John has Tourette Syndrome so please be aware you might hear some involuntary noises or movements during the ceremony.”

I Swear follows Robert Aramayo portraying Davidson from age 25, after his appearance in the BBC documentary John’s Not Mad, which introduced Tourette’s to a wider audience.

The film is up for five Bafta awards, including Best Leading Actor, Best Supporting Actor for Peter Mullan, Best Original Screenplay, Best Casting, and Outstanding British Film.

Since sharing his diagnosis over 40 years ago, Davidson has helped raise awareness of Tourette’s, with public figures including singers Lewis Capaldi and Billie Eilish speaking openly about the condition.

Emma McNally, CEO of the support and research charity Tourettes Action, told Variety: “We’ve had a huge amount of people reach out to us about I Swear, both individuals living with Tourette’s syndrome and those with no previous connection to the condition.

“All have been deeply affected by the film. It’s clearly created a huge public reaction.

“Viewers have told us that seeing John’s real story portrayed with such depth and honesty has given them a far more accurate understanding of what Tourette’s can look like and how it affects the individual – this is something they had given little thought to previously.

“We’re hopeful that as more people talk openly and more accurate on-screen representations appear, we’ll continue moving toward a more inclusive and understanding society for everyone living with Tourette’s.”

The actor beat the likes of Leonardo Di Caprio, Timothee Chalamet, Ethan Hawke and Michael B Jordan

I Swear star Robert Aramayo broke down in tears after pulling off the ‘biggest upset ever’ at the Bafta Film Awards.

Prior to appearing in the 2025 indie film, Aramayo was best known for his work as young Eddard Stark in the sixth and seventh season Game of Thrones, as well as appearing in the Netflix psychological thriller miniseries Behind Her Eyes, and playing Elrond in the Amazon series The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power.

I Swear sees Armayo playing John Davidson, a man with Tourette’s syndrome, who didn’t receive his diagnosis until he was 25, despite noticing symptoms when he was 12.

The plot synopsis for I Swear reads: “John Davidson grows up with Tourette syndrome in 1980s Scotland. He faces a society that does not understand his condition. He eventually becomes a campaigner to increase public awareness.”

With Shameless’ Maxine Peake, Trainspotting’s Shirley Henderson and The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power’s Peter Mullan, the film has a rare score of 100% on the reviews website Rotten Tomatoes.

Armayo had a night to remember on Sunday evening (February 22) as he attended the 2026 Baftas at the Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall in London. In his first of two wins, he took home the EE Rising Star award.

Voted for by members of the public, Armayo beat Sinners’ Miles Caton, One Battle After Another’s Chase Infiniti, Lurker’s Archie Madekwe and Lollipop’s Posy Sterling.

However, towards the end of the ceremony, Armayo took home the Best Actor Award in a win few saw coming. One Battle After Another’s Leonardo Di Caprio, Marty Supreme’s Timothee Chalamet, Blue Moon’s Ethan Hawke, Sinners’ Michael B Jordan and Bugonia’s Jesse Plemons were also up for the award.

Upon hearing his name read out, Armayo immediately burst into tears as he struggled to compose himself. The tears kept coming once he made it to the stage.

“I absolutely can’t believe it, I can’t believe that I’m looking at people like you, in the same category as you, never mind that I’m stood here.

“I honestly cannot believe that I have won this award. I really, really cannot. Everyone in this category blows me away,” he said.

Aramaya continued: “When I was in school, Ethan Hawke came in to speak to us at Juilliard and he gave an amazing talk on longevity as an actor, about protecting your instrument and avoiding self destructive behaviors.

“And it had a really great impact on everyone in that room. So to be in this category with you tonight is incredible. Thank you Ethan.”

Those watching the Baftas at home rushed to X, previously known as Twitter, to have their say on the awards that threw everyone’s Oscar predictions up in the air.

@DonaldClarke63 said: “Robert Aramayo’s win was just delightful. I suspect Chalamet and DiCaprio won’t mind *that* much as it has no effect whatsoever on their Oscar chances. #eebaftas.” @vlbemma added: “So lovely when Ethan Hawke mouthed ‘that’s better than winning’ after Robert Aramayo’s speech #baftas.”

@JackRaff wrote: “There’s been some great picks tonight, but Robert Aramayo winning Leading Actor for I Swear is one of the best choices ever. And his Dad’s reaction was just a beautiful moment of telly!”

@karl_delo commented: “Robert Aramayo performance in I SWEAR is the best lead actor performance I saw last year. Not only is he completely convincing as a man with Tourette’s syndrome but able to make you feel his pain and joy through the screen. Can’t wait to see what he does next.” @Baddiel stated: “Robert Aramayo is undeniably brilliant in I Swear. Good choice #BAFTA.”

Mikel Arteta believes his Arsenal side showed “what we are made of” by hammering Tottenham four days after the draw at Wolves left the Spaniard feeling “ashamed”. 

Arsenal threw away a 2-0 lead at Wolves, which led to concerns they would again throw away their lead at the top of the table. But the Arsenal manager said he and his team were determined to use the result as a “turning point” and get their faltering Premier League title challenge back on track.

Arsenal will believe they achieved that with the convincing 4-1 win away to Tottenham, which re-established their lead over Manchester City at the top of the table back to five points, having played a game more.

Afterwards, Arteta also offered some insight into how it felt for him, the players and staff following the Wolves game and declared that everyone needed a little “love”.

“After what happened against Wolves and the manner that we lost two points in the last kick of the game, it was tough,” he said. “But that’s the beauty of this game, I mean, there is no explanation watching the game back, how the hell you draw that game. From any angle, you watch it back and say it’s impossible, and you have to watch it again and say it’s not going to happen.

“But it happened, and then you have to lift yourself up because you’re feeling angry, upset, [and] ashamed at some point. And we are all different nationalities, we all have different feelings, and then you have to bring everybody together. And it’s been a joy to spend that time together with them, to align everybody and to say, ‘OK, what is going to be happening in the next chapter?’

“This one is gone, how we use it to be a turning point and to make ourselves better. And that was the focus, that was the intention. But after you have to live on the pitch, and I think what we’ve done from the beginning to the end of the match (against Spurs), it was outstanding.

“It feels like we’ve shown what we are made of but then you have to show it again and again and again, because if you have to just analyse how you feel after every game, I mean it’s a massive rollercoaster and it’s not sustainable. So, we’ve done great today, I think we’re all very proud of the manner in which we won the game, not only the way that we performed and we know what it means to us. We go again.”

Viewers of ITV’s new true crime drama The Lady, starring Natalie Dormer as Sarah Ferguson, have voiced concerns about the timing of the series amid ongoing royal controversy

ITV’s The Lady debuted this evening, prompting immediate reaction from viewers just minutes into the Sarah Ferguson drama.

The four-part true crime series chronicles the devastating story of Sarah Ferguson’s royal assistant, Jane Andrews, whose trajectory from humble beginnings to palace life ended with her murdering her partner, Thomas Cressman, in 2000.

According to the opening episode’s description, “Working-class woman Jane Andrews wants more for her life and is unlucky in love.”

It continues: “On the brink of losing all hope, she receives a letter inviting her to interview for a job with Sarah, Duchess of York, at Buckingham Palace. Securing the job, she moves to London – but life in the palace is gruelling, and Jane struggles to fit in, but she and Sarah find common ground in their experiences of love and betrayal.”

Mia McKenna-Bruce portrays Jane Andrews in the ITV production, whilst Natalie Dormer underwent a transformation to embody Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York, reports the Express.

Within minutes of broadcast, audiences flocked to social media to voice their opinions, with numerous commenters branding it “poor taste” and “bad timing”.

One viewer declared: “Quite possibly, the worst-timed launch of a TV series, ever. #thelady,” whilst another questioned: “Was it the best time to show #TheLady, considering all the controversy around Andrew Windsor and Sarah Ferguson?”

However, a third viewer observed: “ITV couldn’t have timed this any better. It’s pretty good too #TheLady.”

Other viewers concurred, with one stating, “Bad taste at the moment showing anything to do with Sarah Ferguson,” whilst another remarked, “I don’t think this drama could have been timed any better #TheLady.”

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The production also garnered widespread acclaim, with one fan writing, “Ok tunes have me hooked already…..”

Another viewer shared their enthusiasm: “#thelady ok 15 mins in, and I’m hooked! Quality-made drama.”

Tomorrow evening’s second episode, which can be streamed on ITVX, promises: ” Jane meets dashing businessman Luis Castillo, and the two begin a relationship, but tensions soon erupt on a holiday in Greece and she becomes increasingly unstable.”

The synopsis continues: “As Jane’s carefully constructed composure starts to fracture and puts her position with the duchess at risk, a lifeline appears in the shape of the charismatic Tommy Cressman.”

The third episode will subsequently be broadcast next Sunday at 9pm on ITV.

The Lady continues tomorrow evening at 9pm on ITV, with episodes currently available to stream on ITVX.

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The Alma’s Not Normal creator, 37, shared a candid Instagram post marking what many parents call the “fourth trimester”, writing: “Three months old today.

“We’ve survived the fourth trimester. I’m no longer Googling ‘is this normal?’ 47 times a day. He’s officially no longer a newborn.”

Alongside the heartfelt caption, Willan posted a sweet snap of her smiling baby boy, Elijah.

Fans were quick to comment on how happy and content he looked, with many praising her for sharing the less glamorous side of early parenting.

One wrote: “He’s adorable Sophie! Growing up fast.

“Won’t be long until he will be up here on a visit to Ye Olde Pastie shop sampling our northern delicacies!”

Another said: “He is such a gorgeous little fella, well done on getting through the new-born stage.”

In her trademark honest style, the Bolton comic joked about the realities of early motherhood, admitting there had been “leaks, outfit changes, chaos” before finding a nappy brand that brought “calm”.

The update offers a glimpse into a new chapter for the actress, whose hit BBC Two sitcom Alma’s Not Normal was inspired by her upbringing in Bolton and her experiences growing up in and out of care.

Since winning multiple BAFTAs for the show, Willan has remained open about her roots and working-class background, and now, it seems, she’s bringing that same candour to motherhood.

But while she may be known for gritty realism and sharp humour on screen, her latest post shows a softer side celebrating small wins, surviving sleepless nights, and sharing a moment of pure baby joy.

And judging by that beaming three-month-old smile, things are looking pretty calm indeed.

NATIONAL HARBOR, Md. (AP) — Over and over, the Republicans and former Republicans who gathered just outside Washington this weekend warned that President Donald Trump and his allies in Congress are tearing at the very fabric of American democracy.

A former congressman described the president’s party as an “authoritarian-embracing cult.” A prominent conservative writer said Trumpism is an “existential threat.” And a retired Army general, his voice shaking with emotion, cited post-Nazi Germany as a roadmap for the nation’s post-Trump recovery.

It’s unclear how many people are listening.

The main convention hall at the sixth annual Principles First summit on Saturday and Sunday was half empty. About 750 chairs were set up in a room that could have fit thousands, and many were unfilled. Not a single current Republican elected official participated in the two-day program.

This is what remains of the Grand Old Party’s Never Trump movement, a coalition of Republicans, former Republicans and independents who banded together as Trump consolidated power. They largely remain political exiles — not quite at home among Democrats yet disgusted by how the president has abandoned Republicans’ longstanding commitments to free trade and limited government.

John McDowell, 69, who was a lifelong Republican before Trump’s emergence, acknowledged that the diminished group had virtually “zero” political clout within his former party.

“It’s just a fact. We’re losing good people,” said McDowell, a former Capitol Hill staffer and county Republican official from San Carlos, California. “The party is becoming more and more MAGA-fied.”

White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson dismissed all the criticism from what she called “a bunch of deranged has-been politicians.”

“The only people who will pay attention to this event are the journalists who are forced to cover it,” she said.

Virtually everyone who gathered at the hotel in National Harbor, Maryland, said they are rooting for Democratic victories in this fall’s midterm elections. One of the only Democrats there was Conor Lamb, a former congressman from Pennsylvania who lost his party’s primary to John Fetterman four years ago.

Despite dire concerns, there was a slight sense of optimism among the half-empty convention hall and quiet hotel hallways.

Several people cheered last week’s Supreme Court decision to strike down Trump’s tariffs, the economic tool he has wielded without congressional approval in his attempt to force friends and foes around the globe to bend to his will. Trump insisted he would implement a new round of tariffs despite the ruling.

Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, a former Trump adviser, highlighted recent AP-NORC polling showing that 1 in 4 Republicans nationwide do not approve of Trump’s job performance.

“It’s like any show that’s on TV for a long time — the ratings start to go down. And the ratings are going down,” Christie said. “I am willing to bet you that by next February, this room is going to be twice the size of what it is now. After the midterms, you watch.”

Ex-MAGA diehard Rich Logis, wearing a red “I left MAGA hat,” hopes to see “an electoral revolt against MAGA” in the midterms.

“I think there’s a shift in our country right now,” he said. “It happens slowly.”

Logis was promoting support groups for friends and family of Trump loyalists at a table outside the convention hall. Nearby, someone was selling books about how to escape cults.

At the podium, former Republican Rep. Joe Walsh implored Trump’s critics not to downplay the seriousness of the threat the president poses to the nation.

“He’s everything our founders feared. Say it. Believe it,” Walsh said. He said his former party is “an authoritarian-embracing cult” and “a threat to everything I love.”

Retired Gen. Mark Hertling, who once commanded the U.S. Army’s European forces, said he’s “haunted” by allies who ask him “whether American institutions ever can be trusted again.”

“Our nation’s institutions have been shaken. Our alliances have been strained. Our credibility has been damaged. And our nation’s values have been cast aside,” Hertling said. He suggested the U.S. should look to the reconstruction of Germany after the defeat of Nazism if it hoped to to restore the damage caused by Trump and his allies.

The nation’s recovery, he said as his voiced cracked, would be something people have to earn over many years.

Bill Kristol, who worked in previous Republican administrations and helped found the Weekly Standard magazine, described Trump and his Republican supporters in Congress as “an existential threat” to the nation. But he was also optimistic about the upcoming midterm elections.

Kristol said Democrats are “almost certain to win the House,” “could possibly win the Senate,” and have “a good chance to win the presidency” in 2028.

Brittany Martinez, executive director of the host organization Principles First, also tried to cast an optimistic tone, even after describing the many reasons why she couldn’t bear to continue her career as a Republican staffer on Capitol Hill.

“I hope that Republicans continue to wake up,” she said. “I do think that those folks exist. And I hope that they exist in greater numbers.”

The 2026 BAFTA Film Awards aired an emotional tribute to the stars who died in the last year

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The 2026 BAFTA Film Awards broadcast a moving tribute to the stars who passed away over the past year, yet some viewers were left baffled as two high-profile celebrities were absent from the segment.

Hosted by The Traitors US star Alan Cumming, the ceremony drew the biggest names in British cinema to London’s South Bank, with films including One Battle After Another, Sinners, and Hamnet all contending for awards.

Later in the evening, audiences were moved to tears as the ceremony paid tribute to the actors, producers, directors, and other film industry figures who had died over the previous twelve months. Among those honoured were Hollywood actress Catherine O’Hara, who passed away last month aged 71, alongside Rob Reiner, Brigitte Bardot, Val Kilmer, Gene Hackman, and Robert Redford.

However, Dawson’s Creek legend James Van Der Beek, who recently passed away aged 48 following a bowel cancer diagnosis, was notably absent from the tribute. Grey’s Anatomy star Eric Dane, who died this week from ALS, was also overlooked, reports the Express.

READ MORE: BAFTAs viewers all say the same thing about KPop Demon Hunters’ performanceREAD MORE: Bafta host gives reason BBC viewers can hear shouting and ‘strong language’ during TV broadcast

As singer Jessie Ware took to the stage to perform Barbara Streisand’s hit The Way We Were during the heartfelt In Memoriam segment, viewers swiftly took to X (formerly Twitter) to voice their bewilderment.

“Poor oversight by BAFTA. James Van der Beek and Eric Dane should have been included in the memorial section,” one person wrote, with another adding: “Where was James Van Der Beek in that tribute to all the actors?”

A third commented: “So far there has been no mention of Eric Dane, not at all amused,” whilst another viewer echoed the sentiment: “Hold on just a minute, why was Eric Dane not in that tribute video then? Actually, in tears.”

Meanwhile, some fans pointed out that the iconic stars would likely be celebrated at the BAFTA TV Awards, due to air on BBC One later this year.

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Tonight’s ceremony delivered a huge shock as British actor Robert Aramayo pipped Hollywood heavyweights Leonardo DiCaprio and Timothée Chalamet to the Leading Actor prize.

The 33-year-old Hull native, who appeared in I Swear, was utterly gobsmacked as he claimed the prestigious acting accolade, moments after picking up the Rising Star award.

“I absolutely can’t believe this,” Robert declared whilst accepting the honour. “I honestly cannot believe I have won this award. Everyone in this category blows me away.”

Elsewhere, Irish actress Jessie Buckley claimed the Leading Actress prize for Hamnet, whilst One Battle After Another took home Best Film. Earlier in the proceedings, British talent Wumni Mosaku claimed Best Supporting Actress for her performance in Sinners, whilst Sean Penn secured Best Supporting Actor.

The 2026 BAFTA Film Awards are available to stream on BBC iPlayer

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From biometric EU entry checks to mandatory travel permits and new passport requirements for dual nationals, holidays next year may feel very different, even from last summer.

Industry figures say searches for “summer holiday deals” have jumped by 123% in recent months. But travel professionals warn many people are unaware of the changes coming into force.

Here’s what UK travellers need to know before booking.

New Biometric EU Border Checks (EES)

The EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES) came in last October, and replaces passport stamping with fingerprint and facial recognition checks for non-EU travellers, including Brits.

Nicole Kerr, CEO of transport platform Mozio, said: “While a holiday is meant to be a relaxing and stress-free experience, changes to the travel industry could cause delays and confusion. Although the new system is expected to reduce wait times in the future, Brits have already experienced long delays as the rollout continues.”

Travellers should allow extra time at airports, ports and Eurostar terminals.

ETIAS launching in 2026

The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is expected to begin operating in late 2026.

Once live, UK passport holders visiting 30 European countries for up to 90 days will need approval before travelling.

Jane Bolton, ski and travel expert at Erna Low, explained: “ETIAS is a new online travel authorisation that UK travellers will need before visiting most European countries in the Schengen area. It’s not a visa, but it will be mandatory once it comes into force.”

“Once it’s live, travellers won’t be able to board flights or ferries without having an approved ETIAS linked to their passport.”

Key facts:

• €20 fee
• Free for under-18s and over-70s
• Valid for three years or until passport expiry
• Required before boarding

Importantly, the official system is not yet open, and experts warn of scam websites claiming to sell early approvals.

New Passport Rules for Dual Citizens in 2026

Alongside EU changes, updated UK travel rules are affecting dual nationals.

Dual citizenship is permitted in the UK, meaning you can be British and hold another nationality. However, new travel requirements are tightening how dual citizens enter the UK.

From this month, British and Irish dual nationals must travel to the UK using a valid UK or Irish passport

Alternatively, they must carry another passport with a certificate of entitlement proving right of abode

They cannot apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)

Without the correct document, boarding may be refused

If travelling before 25 February 2026, some dual nationals may still be able to enter using a passport eligible for an ETA without obtaining one – but this transitional flexibility is ending.

Experts advise dual citizens to check passport validity early and confirm entry rules with both governments well before departure.

Crucial warning if you’ve booked or are booking a holiday abroad. Get travel insurance ASAB.

A snip from the new ‘Travel insurance and Life Lessons’ episode of the Martin Lewis Podcast. Listen to it on https://t.co/pwPqP7J49K, Apple, Spotify & all the usual pod players pic.twitter.com/FdSLzL2xy7

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— Martin Lewis (@MartinSLewis) January 23, 2026

US Entry App requirement

Travellers heading to the United States will increasingly be required to use the Mobile Passport Control (MPC) app.

The app requires passengers to:

• Create a profile
• Upload a photo
• Answer arrival questions
• Generate a QR code for scanning at passport control

While designed to speed up entry, it adds another step to pre-travel preparation.

Heathrow and some other airports are no longer insisting on the 100ml rule – but many airports still are

Heathrow Airport has scrapped the 100ml liquid rule thanks to new scanners. However, this rule does not apply at all airports, particularly on return journeys.

Hannah Mayfield, a money expert at PayingTooMuch, warned: “Even if you’re no longer required to show prescription details at Heathrow, it’s still important to carry one with you.

“If your medication is lost, stolen or damaged while abroad, replacing it can be costly and time-consuming.”

Dr Asimah Hanif, a GP working with Staysure, added: “Losing access to prescribed medication abroad can be serious.

“I’d still advise patients to carry medicines in their original packaging and keep a copy of their prescription.”

Travellers are urged to check rules for both departure and return airports.

Expect delays beyond Border Control

Nicole Kerr also warned: “Alongside these procedures, travellers will inevitably be met with other challenges which could cause delays, such as airport strikes and long taxi queues when leaving the terminal.”

With another busy year predicted for European airports, advance booking of transfers and allowing additional journey time is recommended.

Recommended reading:

What this means for your 2026 holiday

Between biometric EU border systems, ETIAS authorisation, US entry apps, liquid rule variations and new UK passport requirements for dual nationals, travel in 2026 will require more preparation than many travellers are used to.

Experts recommend:

• Check passport validity now
• Dual nationals should confirm which passport must be used
• Avoid unofficial ETIAS websites
• Allow extra time at airports and borders
• Carry printed and digital travel documents
• Ensure travel insurance covers medical and prescription issues

The message from travel professionals is clear: preparation will be essential.

For many Brits, holidays will still go ahead smoothly – but failing to understand the new rules could mean delays, denied boarding, or unexpected stress at the start of your trip.