New U.K. eTA Requirement for Canadians Set for February 2026

Post by : Mina Rahman

Effective February 25, 2026, Canadians planning to visit the United Kingdom will need to secure an electronic travel authorization (eTA) prior to their departure. Travellers without a confirmed eTA might be refused boarding.

This online travel authorization allows Canadian citizens to stay in the U.K. for durations of up to six months. The application fee is £16 (around $30 CAD), and it can be processed through the official U.K. government portal or via the U.K. eTA mobile application. Authorities advise travelers to rely solely on official resources to avoid possible scams.

Most requests are quickly processed—often within minutes—but for hassle-free travel, users should allow up to three business days for their eTA approval. Once issued, the eTA remains valid for multiple trips within a two-year window or until the associated passport expires.

Mike Tapp, the British Minister for Migration and Citizenship, stated that this initiative aims to streamline travel for visitors. “By digitizing our immigration procedures, we are enhancing the experience for the millions arriving in the U.K. each year,” he said. However, it is crucial to note that possessing an eTA does not assure entry, as this remains the prerogative of border controls.

Canadians with British citizenship are exempt from the eTA requirement and should present either a valid British passport or a certificate of entitlement for hassle-free entry. Additionally, those merely transiting through the U.K. without going through customs will not need an eTA.

While Canadian citizens can still travel to the U.K. for short periods without a tourist visa, different visas are mandatory for undertaking business, study, or work. This new policy is in line with global trends, such as the forthcoming European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), which will similarly require Canadian visitors to Europe to secure prior travel authorization.