New UK Entry Rules: ETA Now Required for Travelling from Canada to UK in 2025

Canadians visiting or transiting the UK must get an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) from January 8, 2025. This new requirement matches the UK with other countries that use pre-travel authorization to improve border security and admission operations.

What is ETA?

An ETA digital authorization allows visa-exempt nationals to stay in the UK for six months. Tourism, business, short-term research, and family visits require it. Even if they don’t depart the airport, UK airport visitors need an ETA. An ETA is not needed if you stay in international transit and don’t cross UK borders.

Who Needs an ETA?

Canadians and other visa-exempt citizens must have ETA. All Canadian passport holders need an ETA to enter or transit through the UK. This applies to all travelers, including infants and children. How to Apply for a UK ETA.

A UK ETA application is simple and user-friendly:

1. Application Timing: Canadians can apply for an ETA starting November 27, 2024, for travel after January 8, 2025.
2. Required Documents: Applicants must have a valid passport, the same as for travel. Make sure your passport is valid for your UK stay.
3. Application Process: Apply online through the UK government website or the ‘UK ETA’ mobile app on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. The process comprises giving personal and passport information, uploading a digital photo, and answering travel and security questions.
4. Application fee: £10 per person. Credit, debit, Apple, and Google Pay can be used to pay.
5. Processing Time: Applicants should apply at least three working days before their anticipated travel date to account for potential delays, as decisions are often made within minutes.
6. Authorized ETAs are valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. You can enter the UK many times for six-month stays. Refer to cite: turn0search3 for key considerations.

Transit passengers entering the UK through border control must have an ETA. An ETA is not needed if you stay in international transit and don’t cross UK borders.

ETA is waived for British and Irish nationals, those with a valid UK visa, and those legally living in Ireland who are traveling to the UK from the Common Travel Area.

Entry to the UK: an ETA does not ensure entry. Travelers must meet entrance conditions and may undergo border checks upon arrival.

Canadian visitors to the UK are affected by the ETA system. It’s important to apply for an ETA early and be educated about UK travel procedures to ensure a successful trip. Check the UK government website for the latest information.
UK government guidance provides more information on ETA application requirements and process.