Update as of January 17, 2025: Travelers transiting through the UK no longer require an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) if they remain in the international transit area of the airport. However, if you leave the transit area and enter the UK, an ETA is still required.
Starting January 8, 2025, non-European travelers, including Canadians, will need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to travel to or transit through the United Kingdom. The British government confirmed this new requirement last week, with European travelers needing an ETA starting from April 2, 2025. This new regulation aligns the UK with similar systems in countries like the US and Canada. Here’s everything you need to know about this upcoming change and how to prepare.
If you’re specifically looking for information on how to apply for the UK ETA, skip forward to the How to Apply for the UK ETA section at the bottom of this post.
What is an ETA?
An Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is a pre-authorization required for visa-exempt nationals entering the UK for short stays, tourism, business, or transiting through the country. While it doesn’t replace a visa for those needing one, it allows for easier entry for nationals of visa-waiver countries.
Previously, Canadians could enter the UK without any prior documentation beyond a valid passport for stays up to six months. However, starting in 2025, this policy is changing, and travelers must apply for an ETA before they leave.
Why the Change?
The UK government is implementing the ETA system as part of its broader Border Modernization Programme. It aims to enhance security and streamline border processes, ensuring that only authorized individuals enter or transit through the UK. The system also mirrors similar programs in countries like the US (ESTA) and Canada (eTA), which pre-screen travelers before they arrive at border points.
Who Needs an ETA?
The ETA requirement will affect various countries, with Canada, the United States, and other visa-exempt nations now included in the list of those needing approval before travel. Canadians will need an ETA for:
- Visiting the UK for tourism, business, or short-term stays.
Transiting through a UK airport, even if they don’t plan to stay in the country.
For Canadians, the system opens for applications on November 27, 2024 for travel beginning on January 8, 2025. If you’re planning any trips to the UK or through a UK airport, make sure to apply for your ETA before departure.
How to Apply for a UK ETA
Applying for a UK ETA is expected to be a straightforward online process:
- Application Timing: Starting from November 27, 2024, Canadians will be able to submit their applications online.
- Documents Required: Ensure you have a valid passport and apply using the same passport you intend to travel with.
- Fees: The ETA will cost £10 (roughly CAD$18).
- Validity: The ETA allows multiple trips to the UK for stays of up to six months at a time over two years, or until your passport expires—whichever comes first.
- Processing Time: The processing time should typically be quick, but applying well ahead of your travel date is advised to avoid any delays.
What Happens If You Don’t Have an ETA?
Failure to apply for an ETA before traveling or transiting through the UK could result in denial of boarding by your airline or denial of entry at the UK border. Remember, the ETA is linked to your passport, so make sure to apply with the correct details to avoid complications.
Key Details to Remember
- Mandatory for Canadians: Canadians will need an ETA for trips starting on or after January 8, 2025.
- Early Applications: The ETA application process begins on November 27, 2024.
- Linked to Passport: You must travel with the same passport used for the ETA application.
What Are Other Countries Doing?
The ETA system isn’t unique to the UK. Other countries have implemented similar systems to pre-screen travelers before they arrive. For instance:
- United States: Travelers from visa-exempt countries need to apply for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) to enter.
- Canada: The Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) has been required since 2016 for visa-exempt nationals flying to Canada.
- European Union: The EU is planning to launch its own ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System). While there is no confirmed launch date yet, it is projected to begin about six months after the implementation of the EES (Entry/Exit System), which will modernize the EU’s border management. ETIAS will require travelers from visa-exempt countries to obtain pre-authorization before visiting any Schengen Zone countries. However, ETIAS is not required if you only remain in the international transit area of an airport. If you leave the transit area and enter the Schengen Zone, you must have an ETIAS travel authorization.
These systems have proven effective in enhancing border security and streamlining the travel process for both travelers and immigration authorities.
How to Apply for the UK ETA
Applying for a UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is a straightforward process, best completed using the official UK ETA mobile app. Here’s everything you need to know:
Before You Start
Make sure you have the following:
- The passport you will travel with (not a photocopy or digital passport).
- Access to your email account to receive notifications about your application.
- A credit card, debit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay to pay the application fee of £10 (approximately CAD$18).
What You Will Need to Upload or Photograph
- Your passport (you’ll need to take or upload a photo).
- A clear photo of your face (selfie) for verification.
You do not need to provide your travel details when applying for the ETA.
How to Apply Using the UK ETA App
- Download the App
Install the official UK ETA app on your Android or iPhone from your device’s app store. - Follow the Step-by-Step Instructions
- Use the app to take or upload photos of your passport and your face.
- Enter your personal details as prompted.
- Pay the Application Fee
- The fee is £10, payable directly in the app via credit card, debit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay.
- Submit and Wait for Approval
- Most applications are processed quickly, often within a few days. You’ll receive confirmation via email and the app once approved.
- Travel with the Same Passport
- The ETA is electronically linked to the passport used for your application. If your passport expires or changes, you’ll need to reapply for a new ETA.
Why Use the UK ETA App?
- The app simplifies the process by letting you upload required photos directly from your smartphone.
- No need to scan or send physical documents—everything is handled digitally.
- Receive updates and notifications about your application directly through the app.
Key Notes
- The ETA is valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
- It allows multiple trips to the UK for stays of up to six months at a time.
The ETA is required even if you are only transiting through the UK, such as during a layover at London Heathrow Airport.
Applying for your UK ETA through the app is the quickest and easiest way to ensure your travel plans go smoothly.
Final Thoughts: Planning Ahead
If you’re a Canadian planning to visit or transit through the UK in 2025, make sure you’re prepared for this new requirement. Apply early, double-check your travel documents, and ensure your plans align with the new rules. Missing out on an ETA could mean significant delays or being turned away at the airport.
By staying informed and applying on time, you’ll ensure smooth travel plans to and through the UK under this new system.
