As of January 8, 2025, Canadians traveling to the United Kingdom will need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), regardless of whether their visit is for tourism, business, or simply transiting through the country.
What Is a U.K. ETA?
The U.K. ETA grants permission for travelers to enter and stay in the country for up to six months. It applies to individuals who don’t require a visa to enter the U.K. but must not be confused with a visa or work permit. Those with existing permissions to live, work, or study in the U.K. are exempt.
Introduced as part of the U.K. Home Office’s effort to digitize borders by 2025, the ETA system aims to enhance border security. Applicants must provide personal, biometric, and contact information and answer questions regarding their travel intentions and suitability.
“This will increase our knowledge about those seeking to come to the U.K. and prevent the arrival of those who present a threat,” states the U.K. Home Office.
How to Apply for a U.K. ETA
You can apply for the U.K. ETA either through the U.K. ETA app or online. Note the following steps:
- Upload a photo of your passport (the one you’ll use to travel).
- Use your device to scan your face (children under nine are exempt from this step).
- Upload a photo of yourself.
- Answer suitability questions (no travel details are required).
The process must be completed in one session as it does not save progress. Inactivity for 20 minutes will result in a timeout.
Once submitted, applications are usually processed within three working days, and approval will be sent via email. The ETA is valid for two years and is linked to your passport.
Group Travel: Each traveler in a group must apply separately.
Cost of a U.K. ETA
The cost of applying for an ETA is £10 (approximately C$17.62) per person. This fee is non-refundable and can be paid using credit cards, debit cards, Apple Pay, or Google Pay.
Comparison to Canada and the U.S.
Canada has operated a similar ETA system for years at a cost of C$7, while the United States’ Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) charges US$21 (C$30.23).
Why Was the ETA Introduced?
The U.K. ETA system was designed to streamline border security and prevent unauthorized entries. Global Affairs Canada reminds Canadians to apply for an ETA before their travel or transit and to use the same passport during the application and journey.
For Canadians planning a visit to iconic landmarks like Stonehenge or other destinations in the U.K., this additional step ensures compliance with the country’s updated travel requirements.