Now that the system is fully rolled out, most Canadians will need to obtain a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to enter the UK.
Travel requirements to the UK have changed as of February 25, 2026. Canadians who have plans to explore the UK, whether Britain, Ireland, Scotland, or Wales, should check the updated travel requirements to make sure their itinerary isn't derailed. Thankfully, applying is pretty straightforward. Here's what you need to know about the UK ETA before your next trip.
What is a UK ETA?
The UK ETA is a type of digital permission to travel. An ETA is not a visa—eligible visitors to the UK, including Jersey, Guernsey, or the Isle of Man, need an ETA to travel to or through the country, but it doesn't guarantee entry into the UK.
Many other countries have their own equivalent to an ETA. The purpose of this digital immigration system is to streamline travel to the UK while still maintaining border security. In most cases, applicants receive automatic authorization to travel to the UK, provided that the automatic security check doesn't find any reason to deny authorization.
How long is a UK ETA valid for?
Once authorized, a UK ETA is valid for two years or until the holder's passport expires, whichever happens first. It permits visitors to make multiple journeys to the UK for stays up to six months at a time within this period.
Who needs a UK ETA?
Most visitors to the UK need an ETA to cross the border, depending on their nationality and travel purpose. That generally includes Canadians, with some exceptions. If you travel as a group, each person needs an ETA—even babies and children (you can apply for them).
The ETA requirement applies if you go through UK passport control, regardless of whether you're staying in the UK or transiting through on a layover for a connecting flight. You don't need an ETA if you don't pass through passport control, but this rule is still under review—the UK government may still choose to require all visitors, including those transiting airside, to obtain an ETA.
A UK ETA can be granted for several reasons, such as:
Business trips
Tourism
Visiting family or friends
Short-term study
Transiting to another country
Creative Worker visa concession (valid for visits of up to three months)
What about dual citizens?
If you're a dual Canada-British or Canada-Irish citizen, you're not eligible for an ETA, but you also can't just enter the UK. Instead, any dual-citizenship Canadians who travel to the UK must present a British passport, a British overseas territories citizen passport, or an Irish passport. Alternatively, Canadians can also apply for a certificate of entitlement if they don't already have a British passport.
Keep in mind that you're automatically considered a dual citizen if you or either of your parents was born in the UK. If you don't already have a British or Irish passport, make sure to apply well ahead of your travel dates to ensure it arrives on time.
Who else doesn't need a UK ETA?
The main exemption for UK ETAs is for Canadians who do not go through passport control when travelling to the UK. Canadians who plan to stay for more than six months must instead apply for a UK visa. Other exemptions or special cases may apply, such as visitors who are exempt from immigration control.
How to apply for a UK ETA
What you need
A UK ETA application only needs basic info:
A photo of your face
Contact information
Security and background details
Where to apply
Applying for a UK ETA is a simple process that should only take a few minutes. You can apply using either the official UK ETA app or an online application.
Make sure to use only the official UK government ETA portals—there are numerous unauthorized third-party sites or scams that appear official but greatly inflate the application fee. Legitimate government links end in .gov.uk.
Steps to apply
Once you're ready to start your application, follow these steps:
Take or upload a photo of your passport (must be the official document, not a photocopy). Your passport must be the same one that you plan to travel with.
Scan your face with your device if using the app. Children aged nine or younger don't need to scan.
Take or upload a photo of yourself.
Provide the basic information requested, including your name, contact information, employment status, and travel plans.
Pay for your application with a credit or debit card, or via Apple Pay or Google Pay. The fee is £20 GBP, which converts to about $35 to $40 CAD.
How long does it take to get a UK ETA?
Most applicants receive an automatic decision within minutes when they apply through the app. UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) will send an email with your confirmation.
You can apply for an ETA at any time, since it's valid for two years, but plan to submit your application at least three business days before you plan to travel, in case your application needs extra review.
Apply for another person
You can also apply for another person who needs an ETA. If they're with you, use the UK ETA to properly complete the scans. If not, use the online application with a photo of their passport and face.
Get ready for your trip to the UK
If you're travelling to the UK or passing through on your way to another country, get organized and apply for an ETA to avoid disruptions to your trip. For inspiration, check out the top travel tips for the UK and other top destinations in Europe.
Frequently asked questions: UK Electronic Travel Authorisation
Skyscanner can help you find the best flight, hotel, and car rental deals for your next trip.
