The UK is home to beautiful architecture, culturally rich historic sites, and gorgeous art galleries. Many of us know about Big Ben and Tower Bridge, some of London’s most famous landmarks. But if you’re planning to visit the UK as a Canadian passport holder, there are some new requirements you should know about!
Starting January 8, 2025, Canadians traveling to the United Kingdom will need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for short visits, including visits for tourism, business, or even transit. Applications open on November 27, 2024.
Key Details
- Cost: £10 (approximately CAD 18.02).
- Validity: Two years or until the passport’s expiration, whichever comes first.
- Application Process: Available online or through the UK ETA app. Applicants must upload a photo of their passport, provide biometric and personal details, and answer eligibility questions. The application takes around three days for approval.
- Who Needs It: All Canadian visitors, including children, must apply. Separate applications are required for each traveler.
- Purpose of Visit: The ETA is valid for tourism, family visits, business, short-term study, or transit. It allows stays of up to six months per visit.
This initiative mirrors systems like Canada’s Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) and the U.S. ESTA. The UK’s ETA is part of a broader move to digitize immigration and improve border control efficiency, aiming to fully implement digital systems by 2025.
Travellers are advised to apply for the ETA well before their trip and ensure that the passport used for the application matches the passport they’re travelling with. You can find detailed instructions and apply through the official UK government website.
Planning on a trip to the UK soon? This blog might be helpful: Explore London Like a Local
For Canadians planning a visit the UK in 2025 or beyond, understanding the ETA requirements and applying well in advance is essential for a stress-free travel experience. No matter where you’re going, you should also be prepared with travel insurance in case of unexpected medical emergencies, since medical billing works differently abroad.
We hope this blog post clarifies any questions you may have about entering the UK as a Canadian passport holder! To learn more about visa requirements for other destinations, check out Destinations That Require a Visa for Canadian passport holders.
Safe travels,
Suki
