New Travel Requirement for the United Kingdom: ETA

The UK has introduced a new travel requirement called the ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization). This applies to all travelers who can visit the UK without a visa, such as Canadians (see the list of applicable countries below). Starting in April 2025, all visa-free travelers will need an ETA to enter the UK.

What is an ETA?

The UK ETA is a pre-travel authorization system that screens travelers before they enter the UK. It helps the British government track and pre-screen travelers, identifying any potential security threats.

• Non-European travelers can start applying on November 27, 2024, for travel starting January 8, 2025.
• European travelers can start applying on March 5, 2025, for travel beginning April 2, 2025.

Who can apply?

Eligibility to apply depends on:

• The date you are traveling
• Your nationality as indicated in your passport (see the applicable citizenship list below)

How do I apply?

You can apply for the ETA online or through the UK ETA mobile app.

Who does not need an ETA?

You do not need an ETA if:

• You already have a visa
• You have permission to live, work, or study in the UK (including settled or pre-settled status or right of abode)
• You are a British or Irish citizen or hold dual citizenship
• You are traveling with a British overseas territories citizen passport
• You live in Ireland and are traveling from Ireland, Guernsey, Jersey, or the Isle of Man

How much does it cost?

The application fee is £10, which is non-refundable. This applies to everyone, including babies and children. You can apply for an ETA on behalf of others.

How long does the process take?

It typically takes 3 working days, but it may take longer.

Can I apply as a group?

No, each person must apply individually.

How do I know if my application was successful?

You will receive an email confirming that your ETA has been granted. It will be linked to the passport used for the application.

How long is the ETA valid for?

The ETA is valid for 2 years, allowing multiple entries into the UK. If you get a new passport, you will need to apply for a new ETA.

What can I do with an ETA?

With an ETA, you can:

• Visit the UK for up to 6 months for tourism, family visits, business, or short-term study
• Stay in the UK for up to 3 months on the Creative Worker visa concession
• Engage in permitted paid engagements
• Transit through the UK, if you pass through UK border control (‘landside’ transit). You don’t need an ETA for ‘airside’ transit if you won’t pass through border control.

What cannot be done with an ETA?

You cannot:

• Stay longer than 6 months
• Work for a UK company or as a self-employed person (unless you’re engaging in a permitted paid engagement or working under the Creative Worker visa concession)
• Claim public funds (benefits)
• Live in the UK through frequent or successive visits
• Marry or register a civil partnership, or give notice of marriage or civil partnership (you’ll need to apply for a Marriage Visitor visa)

Can I get a UK ETA with a criminal record?

A criminal record does not automatically result in a denied application, as each case is reviewed individually by the UK Home Office. The following factors are considered:

• The severity of the offense
• The country where the offense occurred
• How long ago the offense occurred
• The sentence served (if any)

Minor offenses or older convictions are less likely to cause refusal. However, serious offenses, particularly those related to violence, terrorism, or national security, may lead to denial. If your ETA is denied, you will need to apply for a UK visa.

For more information, visit UK ETA.

Non-Visa Countries that need an ETA: