UK ETA for Canadians: Do You Need It to Visit the U.K. in 2026?

Canada is one of the countries affected by the United Kingdom’s new electronic travel authorization system.

Entrance of London City Airport, welcoming travellers with clear signage and a view of the lit interior, as passengers head through the automated doors.

Canadians do not need a traditional visa to visit the United Kingdom for short tourist or business trips in 2026. However, most travellers will need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before entering the U.K. The ETA is a digital travel permission linked to your passport and is required before boarding a flight to the country.

What people are asking about UK ETA for Canadians

Many travellers are searching for UK ETA for Canadians because the United Kingdom is introducing a new electronic travel authorization requirement for visa-exempt visitors.

Do Canadians need a visa to visit the U.K. in 2026 ?

What is the U.K. ETA and who needs it?

How do Canadians apply for a U.K. ETA?

How long can Canadians stay in the United Kingdom?

How long does a U.K. ETA last?

What we can confirm

Citizens of Canada can still visit the United Kingdom for tourism, business meetings, or short visits without a visa.

However, the U.K. government is introducing an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system that will apply to many visa exempt travellers, including Canadians.

The ETA works similarly to travel authorization systems used by other countries. Travellers must apply online before travelling and receive approval before boarding their flight.

A valid Canadian passport is required for entry to the United Kingdom.

Most visitors can stay in the U.K. for up to six months for tourism or short business visits.

What to do next

Step 1

Check whether you need a U.K. ETA before your travel date.

Step 2

Apply online through the official U.K. government website or mobile app.

Step 3

Make sure your passport is valid for the entire length of your trip.

Step 4

Keep your ETA approval linked to your passport when travelling.

Canadians must apply for the U.K. ETA through the official site run by the UK Government.

Common issues

Some travellers wait until the last minute to apply for the ETA and risk delays before departure.

Entering incorrect passport details during the application can cause approval problems.

Travellers with a criminal record or previous immigration issues may require additional screening.

FAQs

Do Canadians need a visa to visit the United Kingdom?

No. Canadians can visit the U.K. without a visa for tourism or short visits.

What is the U.K. ETA?

The ETA is an electronic travel authorization that allows visa exempt travellers to enter the United Kingdom.

How long can Canadians stay in the U.K.?

Most visitors can stay for up to six months for tourism or short business trips.

Is the ETA the same as a visa?

No. It is a travel authorization, not a full visa.

Sources

UK Government immigration and travel rules

Government of Canada travel advice for the United Kingdom

Last checkedLast checked: 2026-03-04 | 11:00 CT