Canadians Now Need Advance Permission to Travel to the U.K. Starting in 2026: Everything You Need to Know About the New ETA Requirement

Published on November 29, 2025

Canadians planning to travel to the United Kingdom will soon face a significant change in the travel process. Starting February 25, 2026, Canadian passport holders will need to obtain advance permission in the form of an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before being allowed to board flights to the U.K. This policy, which affects citizens of 85 nationalities, is set to make travel more streamlined while enhancing security at U.K. borders. Canadians, who previously enjoyed visa-free access to the U.K., will now need to ensure they have completed this essential step in advance.

The U.K. government is taking this initiative to digitize its immigration system, aiming to provide smoother, more efficient border entry experiences in the future. For Canadian travelers, this new rule will reshape the way they plan and prepare for trips to the U.K., making the ETA a vital part of their travel process. With over 13.3 million applications already processed since the ETA’s partial launch in 2023, travelers are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the new system to avoid last-minute issues and delays. This article explores how this new requirement will affect Canadian travelers, the process to apply, and the overall impact on tourism between Canada and the U.K.

What is the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)?

The Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is a new entry requirement that all travelers from 85 countries, including Canada, must meet to enter the United Kingdom. Here’s a breakdown of the key points you need to know about this new policy:

• ETA Requirement: Starting February 25, 2026, Canadians will be required to obtain an ETA before traveling to the U.K.
• Visa Exemption: Canadians traditionally did not need a visa for short-term visits to the U.K., but now they must apply for an ETA.
• Purpose: The ETA system is part of the U.K.’s efforts to improve border security and streamline the entry process.

How to Apply for an ETA

Applying for an ETA is straightforward, and travelers can do so through the official U.K. government website or an app. Here’s what you need to know:

• Application Process: Canadians will be able to apply for their ETA via an online portal.
• Cost: The fee for an ETA application is 16 pounds (roughly CAD$30).
• Processing Time: While most applicants will receive an automatic approval within minutes, travelers should allow up to three working days for their application to be processed in case of additional review.
• Validity: Once granted, the ETA will remain valid for multiple entries to the U.K. within a two-year period.

Why Is the ETA Being Introduced?

The new ETA system is being introduced as part of the U.K.’s broader efforts to enhance its border security and create a contactless immigration process. The goals behind this initiative include:

Enhanced Security and Efficiency

• Better Screening: The ETA will give the U.K. authorities more control over who enters the country, ensuring that travelers are thoroughly vetted before boarding their flights.
• Streamlined Travel: By digitizing the entry process, the U.K. hopes to make border control faster, with fewer delays at the airport.
• Data Management: The ETA will provide U.K. officials with a fuller picture of travelers’ backgrounds, improving immigration control.

Expanding the System

• The ETA system is being implemented gradually, with the goal of eventually digitizing the entire U.K. immigration system. This move is expected to pave the way for faster and more seamless travel experiences for all visitors to the U.K., regardless of nationality.

Impact on Canadian Travelers

The introduction of the ETA system will undoubtedly have a few notable impacts on Canadian travelers planning to visit the U.K. Here are some key points to consider:

Simple Process, But New Requirement

• Ease of Application: While the process is straightforward and digital, it is an additional step for Canadians who were previously able to travel to the U.K. visa-free.
• Travel Adjustments: Travelers must plan ahead, as failure to apply for the ETA in advance could lead to being denied boarding at the airport.
• No ETA Needed for Transiting Travelers: Canadians who are only transiting through U.K. airports without passing through immigration control do not need an ETA. However, if they plan to leave the airport or pass through border control, the ETA will be required.

Enhancing Safety for Travelers

• The new system will help prevent individuals who pose a security risk from entering the U.K., creating a safer travel environment for all visitors.
• Quicker Border Processing: The ETA system is expected to speed up the processing time for travelers once they arrive in the U.K. by automating the verification process.

Practical Tips for Canadians Traveling to the U.K.

To ensure that your visit to the U.K. goes smoothly, here are some practical tips:

• Apply Early: It is recommended to apply for your ETA at least three working days in advance of your travel date to allow time for processing.
• Check Your Passport: Ensure that the passport used for the ETA application matches the one you use to travel.
• Confirm Approval: Always check that your ETA has been approved before booking your flight to the U.K.
• Carry Proof of ETA: While most travelers will be automatically approved, having a printout of your ETA approval can help prevent any travel disruptions.
• Plan for Special Cases: If your ETA requires additional review, allow for more processing time to avoid last-minute delays.

Benefits for U.K. Immigration System

The introduction of the ETA is not only beneficial for travelers but also for the U.K. immigration system itself:

• Contactless Border Control: The new system will reduce physical interactions at immigration checkpoints, helping with social distancing and reducing wait times.
• Improved Immigration Data: The ETA system allows for better data collection and analysis, enabling the U.K. to manage its borders more efficiently.
• More Control Over Immigration: By introducing the ETA, the U.K. will have more control over who enters the country, making it easier to screen travelers before they board their flights.

Conclusion

The U.K.’s new ETA system represents a significant shift in travel requirements for Canadians heading to the United Kingdom. While it may take some time for travelers to adjust to this change, the process is straightforward and designed to make travel to the U.K. safer and more efficient. Starting on February 25, 2026, all Canadians will need to secure advance permission to enter the U.K. in the form of an Electronic Travel Authorization. By ensuring that travelers meet this requirement before departure, the U.K. aims to improve security, streamline the entry process, and create a more efficient border experience for visitors.