UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for Canadians: Requirements, Application Steps, and Travel Insurance Tips

Starting February 25, 2026, Canadians will face new rules when visiting the United Kingdom. The UK is introducing a mandatory Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for visa-exempt visitors, including Canadian passport holders, and strictly enforcing this requirement for all travel on or after that date.

If you are a Canadian planning a UK trip in 2026 or later, you will need to apply online for an ETA approval before your flight.

Below, we explain exactly what the UK ETA is, how it works, who needs to apply and who does not, and what this means for Canadian travellers of all ages. We also cover a preparation step that matters just as much as your ETA: emergency travel medical insurance.

What Is the UK ETA and Why Is It Needed?

The United Kingdom Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is a digital travel permit that visa-exempt foreign visitors must obtain before traveling to the UK. It is not a visa. It is a pre-authorization to travel, similar to the U.S. ESTA or Canada’s own eTA system.

Having an ETA does not guarantee entry. It simply allows you to board a flight or other transport to the UK. Border officials still decide whether you are admitted upon arrival.

Key Features of the UK ETA

• Cost: £16 per applicant, roughly $30 CAD. This is a government-set fee. Any site charging more is either a middleman or a scam.
• Validity: Valid for 2 years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. It can be used for multiple trips.
• Length of Each Visit: Up to 6 months per visit for tourism or business, the same as before for Canadians.
• Permitted Activities: Tourism, visiting family or friends, business meetings, short-term study, and similar unpaid activities. Paid work and long-term study still require a visa.
• Purpose: The ETA allows the UK to screen travelers before arrival for security or immigration risks, while making border processing more efficient.
• Important: The ETA is digital only. It is electronically linked to your passport. There is no physical document.

When Does the ETA Requirement Start?

The UK rolled out the ETA system gradually between 2023 and 2025, but full enforcement begins on February 25, 2026.

From that date forward, if you do not have an ETA or the appropriate visa, you will not be allowed to board your flight, ferry, or train to the UK. Airlines and transport carriers are legally required to check authorization before departure.

The extended rollout period was intentional, giving travelers time to adjust. That grace period ends in February 2026. There will be no leniency.

Bottom line: from February 25, 2026 onward, Canadian visitors must have an approved ETA before traveling to the UK.

Who Needs a UK ETA (and Who Is Exempt)?

The ETA applies to nationals of around 85 visa-exempt countries, including Canada. If you hold a Canadian passport and previously entered the UK without a visa, you now need an ETA.

Canadians Who Need a UK ETA

• Canadian citizens traveling for tourism, family visits, or short business trips
• Canadians attending conferences or short courses
• Canadians making short visits under 6 months with no paid work

If you are traveling on a standard Canadian passport and do not already hold a UK visa or status, you should assume you need an ETA.

Canadians Exempt from the UK ETA

• British or Irish citizens: Dual citizens do not need an ETA if they travel using their British or Irish passport. If you cannot show proof of that citizenship, airlines will treat you as Canadian-only and may require an ETA.
• Travellers with UK visas or status: Anyone holding a valid UK visa, residence permit, or settled status does not need an ETA.
• Transit passengers: If you remain airside and do not pass UK border control during a connection, an ETA is not currently required. If you enter the UK during transit, even briefly, you need one.
• Certain diplomatic or official passport holders: These cases are uncommon and situation-specific.

When in doubt, apply. It is far safer to have an ETA than to be denied boarding.

How to Apply for a UK ETA – Application Process for Canadians

Applying for a UK ETA is fully online and designed to be straightforward.

Step-by-Step UK ETA Application Process

1. Prepare Your Passport: Apply using the passport you will travel with. If you renew your passport later, you must apply for a new ETA.
2. Use the Official App or Website: Apply through the official UK ETA mobile app or the official UK government website. Avoid third-party services.
3. Complete the Application: You will provide personal details, passport information, contact details, basic travel information, and a digital photo. You must also answer eligibility questions related to criminal or immigration history.
4. Pay the Fee: Pay the £16 fee using a credit or debit card. Any higher amount is a warning sign.
5. Submit and Wait: Many applications are approved within minutes, but some take longer. Apply at least three working days before departure. Earlier is better.
6. Receive and Use Your ETA: Approval is electronic. You may receive an email confirmation, but airlines and border officials verify it automatically through your passport.

There is no appeal process if an ETA is refused. A refusal does not necessarily bar you from the UK, but you may need to apply for a traditional visitor visa instead.

Avoiding ETA Scams and Extra Fees

New travel requirements attract scammers.

Be cautious of:

• Fake ETA websites charging inflated fees
• Copycat mobile apps
• Phishing emails requesting extra payments or personal details
• Travel agents charging unnecessary service fees

Apply only through official UK government channels. Never pay more than £16. Save your confirmation email after applying for peace of mind.

“Do I Need Travel Insurance for the UK?” – Why Emergency Medical Insurance Is Essential

Many Canadians assume government health care or credit cards cover them abroad. That assumption is wrong.

Why Canadian Health Coverage Does Not Apply Abroad

Provincial health plans provide little to no coverage outside Canada. They do not pay foreign hospitals directly and often reimburse only small amounts, if anything at all.

The UK’s NHS does not provide free care to Canadian visitors. Foreign patients are charged for treatment, and hospitals may require payment or proof of insurance.

Medical emergencies abroad can be financially catastrophic. Hospitalization, surgery, or medical evacuation can cost tens of thousands of dollars. Provincial health plans do not cover medical evacuation back to Canada.

Without insurance, you are fully exposed.

What Does Emergency Travel Medical Insurance Cover?

A comprehensive policy typically includes:

Typical Coverage Included in Emergency Travel Medical Insurance

• Hospitalization and surgery
• Emergency room and physician fees
• Diagnostic tests and prescriptions
• Ambulance services
• Medical evacuation and repatriation
• Additional benefits such as family visitation

Coverage is inexpensive compared to potential costs. Credit card travel insurance is often limited, conditional, or insufficient. A standalone policy is usually the safer option.

Protect Your Health and Your Wallet – We Can Help

Travel medical insurance is strongly recommended whenever Canadians leave the country.

At Garrett Agencies, we help travelers select emergency travel medical insurance that fits their age, health history, trip length, and budget.

We explain coverage clearly, help you avoid gaps, and assist if a claim ever arises. The cost of insurance is small. The cost of going without it can be devastating.

In Summary

Canadian travelers to the UK now have two non-negotiable checklist items:

1. Apply for a UK Electronic Travel Authorization well before departure in 2026 or later. Without it, you will not be allowed to travel.
2. Secure proper emergency travel medical insurance. Your Canadian health plan will not protect you abroad.

With proper preparation, you can focus on enjoying the UK rather than dealing with denied boarding or financial risk.

Have questions or want help choosing the right travel medical insurance? Contact us or schedule a call with a licensed advisor at Garrett Agencies to make sure you are properly covered before you travel.