Canadian travelers will need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to visit or transit through the United Kingdom beginning January 8, 2025. This new digital travel document is required for visa-exempt passport holders from countries such as Canada, the United States, Australia, Japan, and others, as announced by the U.K. government. The ETA is valid for multiple trips over two years or until the associated passport expires. Unlike a visa, the ETA serves as “digital permission to travel” and is linked electronically to the passport. Travelers will need to reapply if their passport expires before the ETA’s two-year validity.
According to the U.K. government, the ETA is part of a broader effort to modernize and digitize immigration procedures. The initiative aligns with systems already in place in other countries, including Canada, to enhance border security and streamline the travel experience. Visitors with an ETA can stay in the U.K. for up to six months for tourism, family visits, business purposes, or short-term study. Additionally, travelers are permitted to stay up to three months under the Creative Worker visa concession, which allows for specific temporary work or paid engagements.
To apply, travelers need to download the official ETA application app, where they will provide their valid passport details and upload a personal photo. The application fee is £10, payable via credit card, debit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay. No detailed itinerary is required during the application process, but applicants must answer some personal questions. The approval process is quick, with most receiving an email confirmation of their ETA status within three days. For those without smartphone access, applications can also be submitted on the GOV.UK website.
