As of January 8, 2025, Canadian passport holders will require an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to enter the UK. This policy applies to all Canadian citizens entering or transiting through the UK, as per new rules for passengers from several non-European countries. Travelers simply did not need to apply for prior authorization before entering the UK for short stays of up to six months. Canadians traveling to the UK for tourism, business, study, or family visits are now required to obtain an eTA when staying in that country for less than six months.

This blog will guide you through all the essentials of details, the application process, costs, and more concerning the eTA to make sure you're all set for your next UK visit.

What is a UK eTA?

The UK eTA is an entry authorization that the Canadian passport holder requires for short stays in the UK. It simplifies border procedures to ensure easy entry for the eligible traveler. Nevertheless, getting an eTA does not guarantee entry but rather allows you to travel to the UK where further checks might be required.

Main Information About the UK eTA

1. Who Requires an eTA?

All Canadian citizens, irrespective of age, are required to make an eTA application if they wish to visit or transit to the UK. These include:

  1. Leisure or sightseeing tourists.
  2. Special occasions or reunion family visitors.
  3. Business travelers going to meetings, conferences, and events.
  4. Students going for short-term courses, less than six months.

2. Who is Exempt from the eTA Requirement?

Following are travelers exempted from the requirement of an eTA:

Exemptions
Travelers holding a valid UK visa.
Those with permission to live, work, or study in the UK (e.g., settled or pre-settled status).
British or Irish citizens.
Individuals traveling with a British overseas territories citizen passport.
Residents of Ireland traveling from Ireland, Guernsey, Jersey, or the Isle of Man.

How to Apply for UK eTA

Application for the eTA process is simple and can be done online. This is what you need to know:

Steps to Apply:
  1. Go to the official UK government website or download the application app.
  2. Fill out all the details with personal and travel information.
  3. Upload
  4. A scanned copy of your passport.
  5. Selfie photo for identity verification.
  6. Pay the eTA fee via credit card, debit card, or digital payment through Apple Pay or Google Pay.

Cost of the eTA

The application fee for the UK eTA is £10, or about CAD 17.50.

Important Notice: The fee is non-refundable, even if your application is rejected.

eTA Processing Time

Processing of the eTA application takes approximately three days. You will receive an email confirmation once your application is approved and the eTA will be electronically linked to the passport used during the application process.

Pro Tip: Apply for the eTA a couple of weeks before the date of travel to avoid last-minute delays.

eTA Validity

The eTA is valid for two years or the validity of your passport, whichever one expires first. This period gives you a multiple-entry visit to the UK with up to six months on any one visit. However, in case you need more time in the UK, then you would apply for the corresponding visa.

Limitations of UK eTA

Even though an eTA gives you the permit to enter the UK, there are limitations.

  1. You cannot engage with a UK-based employer whether remunerated or not except based on specific provisions of the visa which include the Creative Worker visa.
  2. You are restricted from public funds or benefits
  3. You are also restricted to applying for permanent residency based on frequent visits.
  4. You are prohibited from marriage or civil partnership as well as notice of it

Documents needed in the application process for UK eTA

To successfully apply for the eTA, you will need the following:

Documents Needed Purpose
A valid Canadian passport To link your eTA to travel credentials.
An active email address For receiving eTA updates.
Payment method (credit/debit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay) To pay the application fee.

What happens at the UK Border?

Obtaining an eTA does not guarantee entry into the UK. When you arrive:

  1. You will meet a Border Force Officer who will check your documents.
  2. You may use an ePassport gate, if you are eligible, to expedite your processing.

Europe's Travel Rule Changes: The ETIAS

Canada does not have the UK's eTA alone. The European Union will be launching the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) for citizens of non-EU countries like Canada.

Once implemented, Canadians must apply for the ETIAS to visit 30 countries in the Schengen Area, such as France, Germany, and Spain. Although it was initially scheduled for 2025, ETIAS implementation has been delayed, so Canadians can still visit Schengen countries visa-free for up to 90 days.

Advantages of the UK eTA

Even though there is an added step, the eTA has several advantages:

  1. Faster and more efficient border control processes.
  2. Reduced paperwork for travelers.
  3. Increased security and safety for the UK and its visitors.

Why Choose Visa Solutions 4u?

Navigating new travel requirements like the UK eTA can feel overwhelming. Visa Solutions 4u simplifies the process with expert guidance and support.

How Visa Solutions 4u Can Help:
  1. Step-by-step assistance with eTA applications.
  2. Real-time updates on travel regulations.
  3. Support for all your travel and visa-related concerns.

Whether you’re traveling for leisure, work, or study, Visa Solutions 4u ensures your trip is stress-free and compliant with the latest regulations.

Conclusion

The introduction of the UK eTA marks a significant change for Canadian passport holders planning trips to the UK. By understanding the application process, costs, and restrictions, travelers can prepare well in advance to ensure a seamless travel experience.

In addition, future travel rules like ETIAS will also be on the horizon. Thus, staying informed about changing regulations is important. Whether you are looking for a short getaway or a visit to your family, Visa Solutions 4u is here to help you at every step. Contact us today and make your travel planning easy!