New ETA Requirement: Canadians travelling to the UK

If you are planning to travel to the United Kingdom (UK) from Canada, there is a new mandatory Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) requirement in place. Effective January 8, 2025, all Canadian travellers heading to the UK will need to apply for a new Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), including infants and children, before entering or passing through the United Kingdom.

What Is an ETA and Who Needs It?

The United Kingdom (UK) ETA is a mandatory travel authorization that all Canadian citizens must apply for before traveling to the UK. Whether you’re flying for business, tourism, or just passing through the country on your way to another destination, you and the individuals you are travelling with will each be required to have a valid ETA, including babies and children.

The cost to apply is £10 (approximately $18 CAD) and is non-refundable once you submit your application, so make sure to double-check your travel dates details before submitting.

Applying for an ETA: Documents

• Passport: make sure it is the physical passport which you will be traveling with (photocopies or digital versions of the passport are not permitted).
• Access to email: You’ll need it to confirm your application.
• Payment method: A credit card, debit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay will work.
• To apply for an ETA, visit the UK Government website and apply under the “Apply for an ETA” section.

Note: When you apply, you will be required to upload or take a photo of the page in your passport which states your personal details as well as a recent photo of your face.

You are not required to provide extensive travel details when you apply, however, you must travel with the valid passport that you used in your ETA application. Although a UK ETA has a processing time of around 3 business days, it is still important to apply for an ETA well in advance of your trip to avoid any last-minute issues or delays.

Proof of funds & return ticket

Border officials may ask for proof indicating that you have enough money for your stay and a return ticket. If you can’t demonstrate this, or if the authorities suspect you might be planning to work or live in the UK, it could result in denied entry.

Documents indicating work or long-term stay

If you have items like a CV or certificates, officials may think you’re planning to work or stay long-term, possibly resulting in refusal of entry.

Travelling Through the UK

If you are travelling through the UK on your way to another country, you still need to apply for an ETA and meet the entry requirements of your destination. If you do not meet these requirements, you could be denied boarding or face a long delay while you sort out your travel plans.

The new ETA requirement applies all Canadian travellers, and it is important to make sure to apply for an ETA well in advance to avoid potential delays and denied entry. Contact us today to see if you meet all UK ETA and entry requirements.

This ETA will also be implemented for Canadians travelling to Europe, however the implementation of these dates have not been finalized yet and therefore be sure to follow our newsletter to know more once this new travel ETA has been put into place.