Canadians Visiting UK Require Electronic Travel Authorization Starting January 2025

Passengers are seen at the Edinburgh airport on Dec. 6, 2021, in Edinburgh, Scotland. Photo by Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images

Canadians travelling to or through the United Kingdom in the new year will be required to have an electronic travel authorization (ETA).

The changes are part of the UK government’s move to digitize its border system, citing security enhancement needs. By requiring ETA documents for travellers, the UK government said it would have more information on those who go to the country, and “prevent the arrival of those who present a threat.”

Canadians can start applying for ETAs to travel to the UK on Nov. 27, the federal government said on its website.

The electronic screening requirement is for anyone heading to the UK as of Jan. 8, 2025, even if the stop is a layover. Those looking to travel to and from the UK prior to that date will not require an ETA.

Canadians will need a valid passport, email, and payment method such as a credit card or Apple Pay to apply.  Applicants will also be required to upload photos of the passport and of themselves. The government does not require travel details for the application.

The new UK requirement also applies to travellers from the U.S. and other Commonwealth countries like New Zealand and Australia, and a number of other nations. Travellers from other European countries such as France and Germany will also need an ETA to enter the UK in April of 2025.

ETAs grant travellers access to the UK for up to six months, including to visit family or friends. A separate visa may be required for those planning to study or work in the country.

Visitors are not permitted to stay longer than six months, or do paid or unpaid work for a UK company, or as a self-employed individual. Those with a valid ETA are also not permitted to live in the country through successive visits or to claim government benefits. The documents also cannot be used by those looking to get married and stay in the UK.

ETAs are valid for up to two years before expiry.

Everyone who enters the country needs an ETA, including children and babies, according to the UK immigration agency.

Applications cost roughly CA$18, equivalent to 10 pounds in UK currency. It takes about three working days for approval, the UK government said.

Ottawa said that the High Commission of Canada in the UK will not be able to help in visa application processes.

Reuters contributed to this report.