Yes. Canadian passport holders now need a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) — £20, online — before flying to Britain. If you've ever helped a visitor get a Canadian eTA, you already understand exactly how this works.
Canada has required an eTA from visa-exempt visitors flying in for years — so the concept is home turf for Canadians. Now Britain does the same in reverse: from 2026, Canadian travelers need a UK ETA before they board a flight to the UK, whether it's a London holiday, visiting family, or connecting through Heathrow on the way to Europe.
| Detail | For Canadian passport holders |
|---|---|
| Do I need it? | Yes — required before you travel to the UK |
| Cost | £20 per person (about C$35), including children & infants |
| Validity | 2 years, or until your Canadian passport expires |
| Stays allowed | Multiple visits, up to 6 months each |
| Do I need it for a layover? | Usually yes — most connections through UK airports require it |
| How to apply | Official UK ETA app or GOV.UK — approval often within minutes, up to 3 days |
Many Canadians tack on Paris, Rome or Amsterdam. The UK ETA only covers Britain; the Schengen area has its own ETIAS (not required yet) and the 90/180-day rule. Time in the UK doesn't use up your Schengen days — they're counted separately.
Yes. Canadian passport holders need a UK ETA before traveling to the UK, including short visits and most airport layovers. It costs £20, is valid two years, and is applied for online through the official UK ETA app or GOV.UK.
It's the same type of system, just for the opposite direction — Britain requiring authorization from Canadian visitors, much as Canada requires an eTA from its own visa-exempt visitors. Different government, same quick online process.
Usually yes. Travelers passing through UK airports generally need an ETA even for a connection. Confirm with your airline and airport, but plan on needing one for any UK layover.
Apply at least a few days out. Many approvals come within minutes, but allow up to three working days to be safe rather than sorting it at the airport.